Behind the Lens: Giggles, Glances & Growing Personality by Stefanie Cole on Photographing Babyhood in Full Bloom
Cover(Back) Star Feature of Tinies Magazine, Babies - Aug 2025
As our Photographer Feature series unfolds, we turn to Stefanie Cole, the creative behind our lively August 2025 back cover. With a six-month-old baby full of giggles and wonder, she shares her approach to documenting personality in motion, and the playful spirit that shines through every frame.
Stefanie Cole
From boardroom to classroom, Stefanie’s journey is anything but typical. Once a marketer, then a high school business teacher, she reinvented herself as a self-taught, full-time photographer after becoming a mom of three. Known for her impeccable styling and an expansive studio wardrobe, Stefanie’s true gift lies in her effortless ability to connect with & manage even the most energetic little ones—turning each session into a graceful dance of light, patience, and presence.
Q: What drew you to specialising in newborn photography, and how has your style evolved over time?
Stefanie: My love for professional photography began while researching wedding photographers, but it wasn’t until I was pregnant with my first child that newborn photography truly called to me. Watching those gentle, tender moments come to life in the studio inspired me to learn the craft. What started as a way to capture my own family’s story has blossomed into a deeper mission — to help mothers feel beautiful, find their strength, and hold on to the precious, fleeting moments they’ll never get back.
Q: How would you encapsulate your photography style in just a few words?
Stefanie: I’d describe my photography style as natural, intentional, and elevated — capturing genuine moments with a thoughtful touch that lifts everyday beauty into something timeless.
Q: How do you approach capturing those fleeting, precious moments and unique expressions of a newborn?
Stefanie: The newborn phase passes in a blur—far quicker than we expect—and the truth is, you won’t remember nearly as much as you hope to. So, I focus on capturing the details I, as a parent, would want to hold onto: their tiny features, the quiet glances between parent and child. I also photograph with the final artwork in mind, creating images that families will cherish and proudly display on their walls for years to come.
Image Copyright @stefaniecolephotography
I’d describe my photography style as natural, intentional, and elevated — capturing genuine moments with a thoughtful touch that lifts everyday beauty into something timeless. - Stefanie
Q: What, in your experience, is the key difference between photographing a newborn (under 1 month old) and a 6-month-old baby?
Stefanie: Once a baby is on the move, you are really letting them drive the shoot and reacting to what they give you and how they react to you. However, with a newborn (once you get them asleep) you are really in total control of the posing and angles. As an artist, I've always found this incredibly difficult and can be really hard on myself because if a picture doesn't turn out as I want it to, there's nobody to blame but me. I have spent ten years studying angles, lighting, and comparing my work to what I want it to be so I can make the adjustments to get it just right. Newborn photography is certainly a labor of love, and anybody who does it understands the struggle.
Q: How do you create a sense of trust and comfort with new parents during the session, and keep them informed along the way?
Stefanie: For me, trust begins long before the session itself. My website and social media are intentionally crafted to be transparent, informative, and reflective of the years I’ve spent working with families. They show parents not only what to expect, but that their baby is in experienced, judgment-free hands. By the time we speak, that initial layer of reassurance is already in place.When they walk through the studio, my role is to gently take the lead -to handle each detail with calm confidence, while remaining open to their thoughts and questions. I want them to feel seen, never judged, and completely at ease. Because when parents can truly relax, something beautiful happens — they get to simply be present, knowing their little one is in safe, loving hands.
Baby Addison, 6 months old
Newborn photography is certainly a labor of love, and anybody who does it understands the struggle - Stefanie
Q: What has been your most rewarding moment as a newborn photographer so far?
Stefanie: The most rewarding part of this work is watching families grow. One of my first newborns just turned ten, and I’ve photographed her every year since. Being trusted to capture that journey is a gift I never take for granted.
To know more about Stefanie Cole, you can check her details:
Website: www.stefaniecolephotography.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/stefaniecolephotography
Location: Fairfield County, Connecticut, USA
While Katie and Cole brought our cover stars to life with striking vision — capturing both the quiet grace of newborns and the joyful energy of a growing baby — the August 2025 issue of Babies goes even further. Inside, you’ll discover the work of more imaginative, visionary photographers who continue to redefine the way we see early childhood.
Don’t miss the full experience — pick up a print copy or explore the digital edition to see the artistry that fills every page.
Tinies Magazine Babies August 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 9/21/2021
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