What is Newborn Photography? When should you take it? | Why is it popular in Japan? | World History and Japan
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What are newborn photos and when should they be taken?
A miracle that only lasts for 14 days
History and the reasons for Japan's popularity around the world
After taking beautiful pre-pregnancy photos,
Finally, the long-awaited meeting with my child.
The baby that I had been carefully nurturing in my belly for 40 weeks,
Finally in your arms.
The story of a new life's growth begins from that moment.
My child's appearance changes before my eyes every day, every hour.
"These little hands, this curled up figure,
I want to remember it forever..."
Newborn photography is born from such mothers' feelings.
actually, As of 2024, the number of filmings in Japan has increased 25 times compared to four years ago.
It's more likely to surpass the commemorative photos taken at shrine visits and Shichi-Go-San ceremonies.
But why only for the first 14 days?
What is the meaning behind that unique round pose?
From the standard view of the newborn photography industry
We will tell you the true value of newborn photography.
By the time you finish reading, you'll realize, "Oh, so that's the reason!"
You will see ways to express your love for your child.
What is newborn photography?
Why the round pose?
Memories of being in the womb for 40 weeks: The scientific reasons why fetal pose is so relaxing
"Why do you photograph babies rolled up?"
This is a question that many moms have.
The answer lies in the baby's "memory in the womb."
Newborn photography is a commemorative photograph taken of a newborn baby within 28 days of birth.
The most distinctive feature is the curled-up posture known as the "fetal pose."
According to midwifery expertise, babies who spend 40 weeks in the womb typically:
Even after birth, the body "remembers" the position it was in in the womb .
The standard view in the newborn photography industry is that newborns' muscles are still underdeveloped,
Their joints are also flexible, so they naturally want to assume a fetal position.
This pose is the most relaxing for babies.
This "fetal sensation" stabilizes the heart rate,
It has been scientifically proven to reduce stress hormones.
But the real meaning lies much deeper.
It was while enduring morning sickness and lovingly stroking my belly,
For 40 weeks, I told him every day, "Come into health and happiness."
That emotional moment when you finally get to meet your child after overcoming the pain of labor.
"You did a great job, thank you for your hard work"
The love you feel when you hold a baby in your arms is indescribable.
It is a story of love between a mother and child that contains all of that.
Newborn photos,
Why is it so popular right now?
Proof of growth: pre-mom photos → newborn photos.
My child was born into the world from within my body.
This work also captures a mother's feelings in a single photograph.
Newborn Photo History
Why is it loved all over the world?
From its origins in America to the Japanese boom, a culture born from a mother's love
The standard view in the newborn photography industry is that it originated in the United States, Europe, and Australia in the 1990s.
It all started with the culture of sending postcards to announce the birth of a child.
The turning point came with the work of Australian photographer Anne Geddes.
Photos of babies held in flowers and plants spread all over the world,
It has become established as a way to visually express the "mystery of life."
According to midwifery expertise, the reason for this culture in general is
It is a universal desire to "give form to a mother's love."
In Japan, it has rapidly spread along with social media since around 2015.
As of 2024, the number of filmings in Japan has increased 25 times compared to four years ago.
It has become more popular than the commemorative photos of shrine visits and Shichi-Go-San ceremonies .
Even overseas, the number of photography technology books published has increased by 300% compared to the previous year.
It has become a global boom.
Why is it so popular?
With the trend toward nuclear families, parents have a stronger desire to record precious moments together.
Due to the trend towards later marriage and declining birthrates, the love for each baby has become more special.
In other words, the popularity of newborn photography is not just a fad;
It has become established as a new form of love expression for modern mothers .
Thoughts on "pitifulness"
A mother's love is not wrong
To my child who I nurtured for 40 weeks: I want to leave a lasting impression of the birth
"Isn't that a pity?"
This concern stems from a natural desire to protect your baby.
But please respect your mother's feelings too.
"My child was someone I spoke to every day for 40 weeks and raised with great care.
I never want to forget the excitement I felt at the moment of his birth."
This is the pure love that many mothers have.
According to midwifery expertise, a properly conducted newborn photoshoot generally involves:
It is not harmful to the baby.
For babies up to 2 weeks old:
・Feeling like you're still in the womb and feeling most relaxed in a curled up position
- It's easier to fall into deep sleep and react calmly to external stimuli
- If the temperature is kept moderate, short-term shooting is not a burden.
The standard view in the newborn photography industry is to never pose in an unnatural way.
It just gently supports the position your baby naturally wants to assume.
The mother's desire to take newborn photos is
It is an expression of the deep love we have for our child, with whom we have spent 40 weeks .
When was the filming?
Medical reasons up to 14 days after birth
Body flexibility and the sensation of being in the womb: a truth that can never be captured again if missed
Why up to 14 days after birth?
The answer lies in the baby's physical development.
According to midwifery expertise, babies typically during the first two weeks of life:
・The period when the sense of being in the womb is strongest
- Flexible joints allow for natural fetal pose
・It is easy to fall into deep sleep, making it suitable for photography.
After three weeks of age, gradual changes begin to occur.
Muscles develop, limbs become more active,
You will stay awake longer.
The standard view in the newborn photography industry is that
After this period, it becomes difficult to photograph that mysterious fetal pose .
"But it's hard right after giving birth..."
I can understand how you feel.
That's why it's important to prepare during pregnancy.
The photo shoot was scheduled in the later stages of pregnancy.
Choose a studio that prioritizes your health after giving birth and is flexible in its response.
These 14 days are truly a special time that only comes once.
It is a miraculous moment between mother and child that, if missed, will never come back.
Posed vs. Lifestyle
Which one is better?
The Artistry and Natural Look of Fetal Pose: How to Choose for Beginner Moms
[Posed Newborn Photo]
Artistic photography focusing on fetal pose.
Using accessories such as swaddling clothes, baskets, and flowers, a mystical worldview is expressed.
[Lifestyle Newborn Photo]
Photographs of natural sleeping poses and everyday life with family.
A style with a strong documentary element that records things as they are.
The standard view in the newborn photography industry is that
Lifestyle photography in particular is set to become a global trend in 2024.
How should a new mom choose?
Paused is recommended for moms:
・I want to capture the feeling of being in the womb
・I want to leave it as an artistic work
・I want to display it as a lifelong treasure
Lifestyle recommended for moms:
・I want to record natural scenes
・I want to cherish time with my family
- Want a relaxed shoot
According to midwifery expertise, generally
No matter which one you choose, the love between mother and child will remain just as beautiful .
Safety Basics
The basic principles of photography to protect babies
Newborn's physical characteristics and how to avoid danger
Your baby's safety is our top priority.
According to midwifery expertise, newborns typically:
-Immature thermoregulatory function
・Neck is not strong enough
-Immunity is not strong enough
Sensitive to external stimuli
That's why there are principles for safe photography.
Poses you should absolutely avoid
・Positioning with elbows raised and chin resting on hands
・Positions that put strain on the neck
・Shooting in high places
[Conditions for safe photography]
・Keep the room temperature at 25-27 degrees
・Shooting time is within 30 minutes
- Always monitor the baby
If it seems uncomfortable, stop immediately
The standard view in the newborn photography industry is that
It is important to hire a professional with knowledge and experience with newborns .
How to find a reliable photographer:
・Professional experience in newborn photography
・Clear explanation of safety measures
・Baby-first attitude
Protect your beloved child and leave a beautiful memorial.
That's the basis for safe newborn photography.
Where is the best place to shoot?
Comparison of home, studio and on-site
Postpartum mother's physical condition and baby first: the best choice
"I'm worried about going out right after giving birth... but I think the photos will be better in a studio."
This is a point that many moms worry about.
[Photo taken at home]
Benefits: Baby relaxes in a familiar environment, and mother's health is taken into consideration
Disadvantages: Lighting conditions, background limitations
[Studio photography]
Pros: Professional lighting, wide range of accessories, high-quality finish
Disadvantages: Burden of travel, change of environment for baby
[On-site photography]
Advantages: Peace of mind at home + professional techniques, bring your own equipment
Cons: High fees and limited photographer options
According to midwifery expertise, generally
We recommend home or on-site photography within the first two weeks after giving birth .
The standard view in the newborn photography industry is that
It is important to make a choice that prioritizes your baby's health and safety.
Advice for newbie moms:
If you are worried about your health, choose to stay at home without hesitation.
Beautiful photography is not about location, it's about love.
Newborn Photo Q&A
A beginner's simple question
Costumes, accessories, siblings, pets, and timing all solved
Q: What costumes should I prepare?
A: The basics are "swaddling" and "naked" shooting.
The photographer will often provide this, so be sure to check in advance.
Q: Can I include my older child in the photo shoot?
A: Yes, it is possible. Sibling shots are a beautiful way to capture the bond between family members.
However, you need to take into consideration the mood and timing of your older child.
Q: What about shooting with pets?
A: Due to the risk of infection, the standard view in the newborn photography industry is that careful consideration is required.
If you really want to take a photo, consult with an experienced photographer.
Q: What do you do when your child is crying?
A: According to midwives' expertise, this is generally handled by breastfeeding, changing diapers, and adjusting the room temperature.
Don't push yourself too hard. Put your baby first.
Q: How long does the shoot last?
A: Usually 1-2 hours, with breaks depending on the baby's pace.
We will adjust the schedule flexibly, taking into consideration the mother's physical condition.
What is the meaning of taking a photo?
Five reasons why it will be a lifelong treasure
Deepening the bond between mother and child, family ties, a sense of growth, and a form of love
1. A moment that will never come back, forever
The 14 days spent in the womb after birth are truly fleeting.
If you miss this opportunity, you will never see it the same again.
2. It strengthens family bonds
By spending quality time with your baby through photography,
Family ties naturally become stronger.
3. A sense of growth and excitement
When I look back at the photos a few months or a year later,
I am once again impressed by how much my baby has grown.
4. To provide emotional support to mothers
When I'm tired from raising my children, I look back at those photos of when I was little.
It heals and strengthens the mother's heart.
5. Proof of love for children
In the future, when your children grow up
It conveys how much love you were born with.
According to midwifery expertise, generally
Survey results show that over 90% of families who have their newborn photos taken are satisfied .
The standard view in the newborn photography industry is that
These values cannot be measured in monetary terms,
It is considered a treasure for life .
Next steps
For moms who want to know more
Complete guide to fees, preparation, techniques, testimonials, and specialized pages
After reading this far, do you understand the basics of newborn photography?
If you feel like you want to try taking photos,
Next, let's move on to the specific preparations.
[More information here]
💰 I want to know about the fees
→ [Newborn Photo Cost Guide]
Budget-based plans, price breakdown, and cost-effective photography methods
🛡️ I want to check safety in detail
→ [Newborn Photo Safety Guide]
Accident examples, danger avoidance, and choosing a reliable photographer
📋 I want to know the specific preparations
→ [Newborn Photo Preparation and Booking Guide]
Schedule during pregnancy, procedure on the day, what to bring
📸 I'm interested in photography techniques
→ [Newborn Photo Shoot Technique Guide]
Secrets of posing, using accessories, and tips for taking selfies
💝 I want to hear from experienced moms
→ [Newborn Photo Experiences and Selection Guide]
Success stories, failure stories, and how to choose without regret
The love for my child whom I have carefully raised for 40 weeks,
Why not leave it in a beautiful form?
Express your love for your child through newborn photography
A special moment that only happens during the first 14 days of life.
Why not create an everlasting memento of the bond between mother and child that you spent 40 weeks together?
Check out each specialty page to find the newborn photography method that's best for you.