Your baby has acne, and you’re wondering how it will affect their professional photos. As a Seattle area newborn photographer, I have been capturing adorable babies & families for over two decades. I can safely say, I’ve pretty much seen it all. One question I receive time and time again from moms & dads is whether or not they should reschedule their baby’s photos due to acne or another circumstance relating to their skin. I’m going to break down my personal approach to baby acne. Including whether or not you should reschedule your session, in the details below.

 

Should I reschedule my session?

If your newborn has baby acne, you might be asking yourself, “Should I reschedule my newborn photography session”? The short answer is no. However, something to consider is that not all newborn photographers edit photos in that manner (we’ll discuss that more below).

Having worked as a newborn photographer in the PNW for over two decades, I can tell you that, unquestionably, most babies experience newborn acne. Maybe you are a first-time parent, or maybe this is the first of your sweet babies who has experienced acne. Let me quell your fears about newborn acne by telling you that it’s more common than it seems. Not only is baby acne common, but so are red spots, fingernail scratches, jaundice, purple feet, and a variety of other skin conditions.

I’ve also worked with sweet babies and loving mamas who have suffered traumatic birthing experiences. Leaving them completely stripped of confidence and the preemptive celebratory joy they felt when they first scheduled their photoshoot. So I understand the hesitation in questioning whether or not you should reschedule your newborn photography session, or cancel altogether.

This beautiful baby has entered your life, is safe in your arms, and has changed your world in all the best ways possible. That is worthy of a photoshoot, no matter the case. You may feel worried and uncertain about a camera pointed in your direction. But, as a skilled newborn photographer, I have seen it all, and each and every tender baby was a joy to be celebrated. My personal recommendation is this: don’t reschedule your photoshoot because of baby acne. 

Do newborn photographers edit acne?

Once you’ve made the decision to keep your scheduled session, this question might be the next one that comes to the surface. Some photographers edit baby acne in photos, some do not. When scheduling your newborn photoshoot, you should ask your photographer in advance about the level of editing they offer, generally speaking.

My personal approach as a Seattle newborn photographer is to offer editing of baby acne in photos. Whether your sweet baby has experienced acne, dry skin patches, or bruising, I will remove those tiny spots that left you questioning if you should reschedule altogether. In fact, I have edited those types of newborn skin conditions many times over. 

You see, the focus of your newborn photography session should not be fraught with worry. This is a precious moment in your life, and the focus of your session should be on capturing that sweet, tiny baby of yours. Before they grow and change. Because time is of the essence when considering newborn photography. Additionally, the recommended time to schedule your baby’s session is from 5 to 12 days old. I use the term ‘recommended’ loosely; if you are outside of this window, please do not worry. You can still schedule a photoshoot for your sweet baby. 

Oftentimes, the families I work with also like to step in front of the camera together with their baby in their arms. Editing extends to parents as well. I know all too well the sleepless nights and general upside-down feeling of bringing a newborn into your home. More often than not, the lack of sleep will be apparent. Preventing moms & dads from further enjoying their newborn photoshoot as a family photo opportunity. 

This moment is yours to enjoy and savor. It’s your moment to relish in the love you feel for the sweet baby who has just entered your life. Please don’t let it be derailed by the uncertainty you feel over something as fleeting as baby acne. I welcome all questions my clients have about editing techniques related to their booked newborn session. You can contact me or find more details on booking your newborn photos at this link.