What is a Newborn Milk Bath exactly?

We had formed a pretty tight bond as I was her maternity photographer, birth photographer and labor doula. So I told her I had not done this before, but I am more than happy to give it a go. I did some research and well, it’s a bath of water and milk. Just as the name implies! They bought 4 gallons of whole milk, candles and a ton of flower. We started with a warm bath and added the milk to get the opacity to achieve a certain look. We then invited momma into the bath and scattered the flowers strategically, adding her newborn baby girl at the end.

So what is the point of a Newborn Milk Bath Session?

God question! Especially since I made the question (ha!). Milk bathes themselves date back years and used to add moistures and soften the skin. Herbal postpartum bathes with mother and child have been around for a while too. The concept of bathing is very healing in the postpartum stage and there’s something vulnerable about being nude in a body of water. Significant bonding occurs when both mom and baby are relaxed and suspended in water. Their heartbeats become one through relaxation, breathe and peaceful observance. And the milk? Why the milk? Look at the pictures above. Would they have the same effect in clear regular water? Besides nourishing the skin of both mother and baby, milk is a vehicle to make the flowers pop. Visually, this scene dazzles the eye with absolute absence of color mixed with punches of color.

Are you ready?

These relaxing sessions can be done in the privacy of your own home, at an Airbnb or at a hotel. Go on a quest to find the most fabulous tub that fits your energy. These sessions can be an add on to your Birth Photography package or as a stand alone option. I am here when you are ready for your newborn milk bath session.

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I have others, but I just can’t bear to show them. They are not bad per se, but they are a far cry from the sweet little fluffs you find all over the internet.

I still hold onto all my props and beanbags for newborn work, but I haven’t crossed the threshold again. Now, I offer lifestyle newborn sessions.

Strictly Speaking, it is Unposed Images

Wait. What? Unposed. Yes. These lifestyle sessions are unposed and organic. I photograph life as it unfolds. These newborn sessions generally take place in your home and concentrate on the connection between the parents and siblings and the newborn.

When Should I get the Lifestyle Sessions Done?

Unlike the cutsie posed babies in balls where 15 days is pretty max, lifestyle sessions allow for more leeway. I would say anytime up to about 8 weeks. Personally, I prefer a bit older 6-8 weeks because then they have so much more personality. They are small enough to sleep and old enough to have wide bright eyes. Also, parents become more comfortable holding them without thinking they are going to break. Losing that fear and becoming confident in holding your baby allows for more natural and beautiful images.

What Should I do to Prepare for a Lifestyle Newborn Session?

There are a couple things to keep in mind. Bathing and lotion are a big thing. Bathing not so much as lotion. We all know newborns can have some serious dry skin. Applying lotion after a nice bath can help with this. Make sure baby naps and eats before your session. Nothing can be more frustrating for a parent as a baby that is uber fussy.

Are you ready to book your Lifestyle Newborn Session?

I offer these as an add on to your birth photography package or as a stand alone product. I am happy to talk with you and answer any questions you may have. You can contact me here.

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