Behind the Lens: Four Little Hearts, One Unforgettable Moment:Lisa Cory on the Art of Capturing Quadruplets in Their Most Precious Days
As our Photographer Feature series continues, we spotlight Lisa Cory, the artist behind our January 2025 cover.
Cover Star Feature of Tinies Magazine, Babies - JAN 2025
As part of our ongoing Photographer Feature series, we spotlight Lisa Cory, the artist behind our January 2025 cover. Through her captivating portraits of quadruplets in their earliest days, she offers a glimpse into her approach to intimate, soulful storytelling. In this interview, she reflects on the delicate art of newborn photography, shares wisdom for aspiring photographers, and reveals how her creative vision continues to evolve with every new challenge.
Lisa Cory
Q: What drew you to specialising in newborn photography?
Lisa:When I began my photography career, I was always inspired by the innocence and quietness of babies. There’s something profoundly moving about their stillness—so new to the world, so untouched by it.
Interestingly, I never initially set out to specialize in newborn photography. But everything changed the day I photographed the newborn of a close friend. During that session, something clicked. I felt an undeniable connection to the work—deeper than anything I had experienced before. It wasn’t just about the image; it was about holding space for a fleeting, sacred moment.
That was the moment I knew: this was what I was meant to do. From then on, I committed fully—seeking out the specialized training, refining the skills, and learning everything I needed to capture the quiet beauty of those precious first days of life.
Q: Photographing quadruplets is incredibly rare. How did this session come about, and what was your first thought when you were invited to capture them?
Lisa: When I received a request from a returning client to photograph their newborn quadruplets, I was both thrilled and, I’ll admit, a bit apprehensive. The rarity and complexity of photographing multiples—especially quads—hit me immediately. There was no time to hesitate. I knew I had to begin planning straight away.
I brought my team together, and we got to work—meticulously mapping out every detail, from poses to safety protocols to the flow of the session. When you’re working with four newborns, every second matters, and so does every layer of care. It was equal parts logistics and love. A session like that doesn’t just happen. It’s built—thoughtfully, intentionally, and with an incredible amount of heart.
From the Cover of Tinies Magazine- JAN 2025 : Babies Reese, Riley, Rhett & Rose, 8 weeks from Ohio, USA
The rarity and complexity of photographing multiples—especially quads—hit me immediately. There was no time to hesitate. I knew I had to begin planning straight away - Lisa
Q: With four babies, every detail matters. How did you decide on the props, colors, and overall styling to keep the image cohesive yet individual for each child?
Lisa: With four babies—three girls and one boy—every detail truly mattered. I collaborated closely with the parents to craft a cohesive, gender-neutral color palette—something soft, timeless, and versatile. I didn’t want the styling to overpower their natural connection or individuality; I wanted it to enhance it.
The palette gave me a foundation to work from—something that complemented all four babies collectively—while allowing me to bring in subtle, thoughtful details for each one. Whether it was a texture, a tone, or a small accent, each baby had a moment that felt uniquely theirs.
In the end, the look was simple and elegant—calm, cohesive, and intimate. Just as it should be.
Q: Photographing one newborn requires precision — four requires mastery. What lighting, angles, or equipment choices helped you create balance and softness across the frame?
Lisa: Photographing one newborn already demands absolute precision—every shadow, every highlight, every angle has to be intentional. But with four, the challenge multiplies. Balance becomes everything.
In my work, I always gravitate toward a single light source with a large, double-diffused modifier. It’s a setup that allows for a soft, natural, and true-to-life quality—something I consider essential when capturing newborns. I want the light to wrap gently around their features, never overpowering, never forced.
For consistency and control, I use the Profoto B10. Its reliable color temperature and compact versatility make it an ideal choice, especially when the frame holds more than one delicate subject.
I collaborated closely with the parents to craft a cohesive, gender-neutral color palette—something soft, timeless, and versatile. The palette gave me a foundation to work from—something that complemented all four babies collectively—while allowing me to bring in subtle, thoughtful details for each one. - Lisa
Q: What were the biggest challenges in posing quadruplets together, and how did you ensure their comfort and safety throughout the session?
Lisa: One of the biggest challenges during the session was carefully positioning all four babies—each of whom was on a heart monitor. It required a level of attention that went far beyond aesthetics. My top priority was their safety and comfort.
Managing the monitor cables without causing accidental disconnection took slow, intentional movement and absolute precision. Every pose was guided by what was safe first—and beautiful second.
My background as an O.R. nurse gave me a deep sense of confidence during those delicate moments. The training I received has been truly invaluable, enabling me to approach each newborn—especially those who are medically fragile—with a level of care, calm, and clinical expertise that I bring to every session.
When you're handling such tiny, vulnerable lives, expertise isn’t optional—it’s everything.
Image Copyright @lisa.cory.photography
My core approach remains unchanged: creating a safe, calm, and comfortable environment for both babies and parents is always my top priority. - Lisa
Q: How did this experience influence your creative journey — did it change the way you think about newborn or family photography?
Lisa: Photographing the quadruplets didn’t necessarily alter the direction of my creative journey, but it did offer a unique perspective—particularly when it comes to working with high-order multiples. My core approach remains unchanged: creating a safe, calm, and comfortable environment for both babies and parents is always my top priority.
That said, this session did ignite a new level of creativity. It pushed me to think outside the box, to explore innovative ways of posing and capturing four babies in a single frame while preserving the essence of each one. It was a challenge, yes, but one that fueled my artistic instincts in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
Q: What would be your key advice — technically and emotionally — for another photographer preparing for such a session?
Lisa: If another photographer is fortunate enough to photograph a session like this, my first piece of advice would be to give yourself ample time. Rushing through such a delicate session isn’t an option—patience is key.
It’s also crucial to have at least one experienced assistant who specializes in newborn photography. Someone who understands the unique demands and nuances of working with tiny, fragile subjects is invaluable.
Preparation is everything. You need a clear plan, of course—but don’t forget to have a backup plan in place. Flexibility is essential, as newborn sessions (especially ones with multiples) can extend over multiple days. And above all, maintain consistent communication with both your team and the parents.
Q: Looking back at that session, what was the most memorable or rewarding part of photographing quadruplets?
Lisa:Looking back, it’s hard to pinpoint just one moment that stands out, because the entire session was truly unforgettable. Photographing four babies was an incredible opportunity—one I never could have imagined. But the true highlight came when my 9-year-old daughter asked if she could keep one of them!
In this feature, Lisa shares the meticulous care that goes into every detail of her newborn sessions, from choosing gender-neutral clothing that allows the babies to shine individually, to her expert handling of health monitors, which ensures their safety and comfort—thanks to her experience as an O.R. nurse. Her approach is rooted in patience, understanding that no newborn session should ever feel rushed. By taking the time to communicate consistently with parents and keeping them informed throughout the process, she builds trust and creates an atmosphere where both babies and families can relax and fully embrace the moment.
To know more about Lisa Cory, you can check her details:
Website: https://www.lisacoryphotography.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisa.cory.photography/
Location: Findlay, Ohio, USA
Tinies Magazine Babies JAN 2025 issue is available now in print and digital. Pick up your copy to experience the full collection of interviews, imagery, and inspiration.
By Tinies Magazine in Babies
32 pages, published 1/2/2025
Love stories like this? You can explore more — or even become one. If you're interested write to us at editortiniesmagazine@gmail.com to know.
For future issue submissions visit Submissions Page