In this episode, Natalia and Michele dive into the realities of newborn photography—what it takes to do it well, why safety and education matter, and how they’re turning years of hands-on experience into newborn workshops at The Arlen Studio.

Michele shares how she found her way into the newborn niche, why it’s much harder than it looks, and what helped her grow (including extensive training, mentorship, and constant practice). The conversation breaks down what photographers truly need to succeed: a camera and lens that allow you to work safely and efficiently, a strong understanding of newborn handling and workflow, and the confidence that comes from guided, hands-on education.

They also discuss ideal timing for newborn sessions (and why mornings often work best), navigating sessions with siblings, the value of documenting parents with baby even when they “don’t feel ready,” and why newborn photography is a true luxury investment—for both the client experience and the photographer’s cost of doing business.

Finally, they touch on editing newborn skin (a skill all its own), learning resources, and what’s coming next on the podcast—like pricing, cost of doing business, and how to start a photography business.

Extra: We’ll be sharing photos from our early work in the show notes so you can see how far growth + education can take you.

Where we started - www.thearlenstudio.com/blog/wmjxkjbeaffmls1i49ff2skivne36z

Follow Michele’s work: • Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/collecting.beautiful.moments/

Website/Portfolio: https://www.michelepanizphotography.com/

Follow Natalia / Lavender & Honey: • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lavenderandhoney_photography

• Website: https://lavenderandhoneyphotography.com

The Arlen Studio: • Website: https://www.thearlenstudio.com • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/THEARLENSTUDIO

Newborn Workshop Info + Booking: • Workshop page: https://www.thearlenstudio.com/open-house

Email us: • hello@thearlenstudio.com • thearlenstudio@gmail.com

DM us: • Instagram DMs: https://www.instagram.com/THEARLENSTUDIO

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