Breastfeeding Photography
Houston Baby Photographer
Ashley Newman Photography
Mama could sense it- she knew the day was coming when her little peanut would no longer want to nurse. It’s almost gut-wrenching when you think about it. It’s a bonding experience and it doesn’t always come as naturally as the world makes it seem.
For myself personally, breastfeeding was a huge challenge. Not only did my son have low muscle tone, but he just struggled in general with feeding. I worked so hard to be able to build that relationship, pumping hourly and continuing to work with lactation and speech therapists to get it right.
Before a year old, I got very sick and my supply dried up. I was devastated and defeated. (But proud of how far we made it and what we did accomplish- every journey is so important)
For breastfeeding support check out the local group: The Painted Doula
For others, it is more natural and comes easier and that is ok. No matter what your journey has been, it’s valuable, real and worthy of documenting.
I loved that this family wanted to add some images to capture their journey during their family session.
What To Expect From Nursing Photos
Make sure your child isn’t super full or completely uninterested. Sometime if they are too full, when we are in a new place with a new person, there are too many distractions and nursing is the last thing on your child’s mind. I don’t advice that your child be super hungry either or withholding, but a nice place in between is helpful. We don’t want to create pressure on the situation, but rather continue the loving bond you have created.
Find clothing that is nursing friendly.
Decide on your comfort level for showing skin.
Schedule your session in advance and chat with your photographer about what you are hoping to capture.
I love the intimacy of these images. From the family bond, to little hands reaching up to hold mama, or play with toes. It’s a wonderful and beautiful thing to share.
