Behind the Lens: First Cries, Gentle Light & the Art of Holding Time by Lucy Rose on Photographing Newborns in Their Earliest, Purest Days
As our Photographer Feature series continues, we spotlight Lucy Rose, the artist behind our February 2025 cover.
Cover Star Feature of Tinies Magazine, Babies - Feb 2025
As our Photographer Feature series continues, we spotlight Lucy Rose, the artist behind our February 2025 cover. Through her soothing black-and-white portraits of a two-week-old newborn, she reveals her approach to gentle storytelling and the timeless beauty of life’s earliest moments, while also sharing insights on social media, advice for emerging photographers, and her evolving creative vision.
Lucy Rose
For Lucy, photography has always been close to the heart—but it was motherhood that gave it true meaning. After the birth of her first child, she felt the urgency of how quickly the newborn days pass. Leaving behind her role as a Bid Manager, she followed a long-held creative dream, blending years of corporate experience with her love for storytelling. Now a mum of two, Lucy brings both technical skill and lived empathy to her work. Her style is soft, natural, and timeless—rooted in gentle textures, neutral tones, and a deep respect for this fleeting season of life. Every family she photographs is a reflection of her own journey, and each image, a quiet celebration of connection, care, and memory. Feb 2025 Cover
Q: How did you first get into newborn fine art photography? What inspired you to focus on this special type of portraiture?
Lucy: I truly discovered newborn fine art photography after becoming a mother myself. I’d always loved family photography, but I didn’t fully appreciate its weight until I lived it. When my girls were born, I was stunned by how quickly those first weeks vanished. One moment they were curled up in my arms, the next they were already changing before my eyes. I thought the newborn stage would last forever — and when it didn’t, it felt like a quiet heartbreak when that fleeting period passed.
That’s when the need to capture every little detail became so personal. Not just for myself, but for other parents too — so they could hold on to those fleeting days. What drew me to fine art in particular is its timelessness: soft tones, gentle textures, natural light. They all come together to create images that feel classic, heartfelt, and worthy of being treasured for generations.
My inspiration has always been rooted in motherhood — in my own journey and in the privilege of witnessing it in others. Every newborn I photograph is a reminder of just how precious this stage is, and that is what keeps me devoted to this work.
Q: You describe yourself as a lover of cosy knits, neutral tones, and even summer sunsets. How do these aesthetic preferences shape the mood and style of your photography, and what was in your mind while capturing the cover image?
Lucy: I’ve always been drawn to the quiet beauty of simple things — cosy knits, muted tones, the golden glow of sunset. Even in my own home, everything is calming, neutral, and chosen with purpose. It helps ground me while my little ones do everything they can to create chaos. Those small details make me feel settled, and I bring that same sense of calm and grounding into my photography.
At the heart of my philosophy is the belief that newborn portraits should feel timeless, serene, and unforced. Families should look back and feel warmth, tenderness, and stillness — not distraction. When I captured the cover image, I was thinking about creating exactly that atmosphere: something heartfelt that reflected the stillness of those early days. The soft textures, the muted palette, and the way the light fell were all chosen to highlight that feeling of quiet, enduring beauty.
From the Cover of Tinies Magazine- FEB 2025 : Baby Ottillie, 2 weeks from York, United Kingdom
Q: How do you create a sense of trust and comfort with new parents during the session, and keep them informed along the way?
Lucy: For me, building trust begins long before the camera comes out. From the very start, I guide parents through what to expect and how to prepare, reassuring them that the session will always move at their baby’s pace. I know from my own experience how overwhelming those first weeks can feel, so I want families to arrive, take a breath, and simply enjoy being together.
In the studio, I create a calm, welcoming environment and gently explain what I’m doing as we go. Feeding, soothing, and cuddling are all part of the process — nothing is ever rushed. Parents often tell me this helps them relax, because there’s no pressure for things to be “perfect.” I also like to show them little previews on the back of the camera. The joy on their faces when they see those first moments is always so special.
That trust continues long after the shoot itself. During the editing and selection process, we stay in close touch as I help them decide how they’d like to enjoy their images — whether through prints, albums, or artwork for their home. My hope is that they leave not only reassured but genuinely excited to see their story come to life.
From the very start, I guide parents through what to expect and how to prepare, reassuring them that the session will always move at their baby’s pace. I know from my own experience how overwhelming those first weeks can feel, so I want families to arrive, take a breath, and simply enjoy being together. - Lucy
Q: How do you approach social media — as a space for inspiration, education, or connection with families and peers?
Lucy: For me, social media is first and foremost about connection. It’s where I share not only my work but also the heart behind it — little stories, family moments, and what inspires me. I use it to reassure new parents, offer tips for sessions, and celebrate the milestones that make family life so meaningful.
It’s also a bridge to community. Sharing openly — about both motherhood and photography — allows people to feel they know me before they ever step into the studio. That familiarity means we often begin shoots as though we’re already old friends. In the end, I see social media as a blend of inspiration, education, and community: a space to showcase my style, offer guidance, and build genuine relationships with the families I’m privileged to photograph.
For me Social Media, I see as a blend of inspiration, education, and community: a space to showcase my style, offer guidance, and build genuine relationships with the families I'm privileged to photograph. - Lucy
Q: For those just beginning their journey into newborn photography, what three essential tips would you share to help them start with confidence?
Lucy: Starting out can feel daunting, but if you lead with care and patience, and don’t strive for perfection every time, you’ll not only create beautiful images but also an experience that families will truly treasure. With that in mind, here are three essential tips for beginners:
Prioritise Safety – Babies are delicate, so their comfort and wellbeing must always come first. Master safe posing, keep the environment warm and calm, and don’t hesitate to pause for feedings or soothing. Parents will remember how you made them feel, not just the photos.
Keep It Simple – You don’t need elaborate props. I prefer using simple wraps and neutral backdrops. Focus on lighting, texture, and natural moments—like a baby nestled in their parent's arms or a tiny hand curled around a finger. Often, less is more.
Be Patient and Flexible – Every baby is unique, and no session goes exactly as planned. Let the baby guide the session, stay calm, and relax. Parents will appreciate your patience, leading to authentic, meaningful photos. Never rush a session—those moments of care will leave a lasting impression.
Image Copyright @lucyrosestudios
Q: Where do you see your photography journey heading next — both in your creative style and in the way you support parents?
Lucy: Looking ahead, I see my work evolving in both creativity and care. Artistically, I’m leaning further into soft, natural storytelling—refining my style with a focus on emotion, connection, and timeless simplicity. I’m excited to explore more sessions not just in the studio, but also outdoors and in families’ homes, where everyday moments can carry their own quiet magic.
On the client side, my heart remains rooted in creating a thoughtful, stress-free experience for parents. I’ve recently moved into a new studio, which has been both a creative challenge and an opportunity to reimagine how I work with light and space. My goal is to perfect that warm, luminous tone my clients know and love.
Beyond the session itself, I want to support families in preserving their memories—whether through heirloom products or simple guidance on capturing daily life at home. For me, photography has always been about more than images; it’s about honoring the beauty of family life, and I’m excited to keep growing in ways that reflect that.
To know more about Lucy Rose, you can check her details:
Website: www.lucyrosestudios.co.uk
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lucyrosestudios
Location: York, United Kingdom
Tinies Magazine Babies Feb 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
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