A Newborn Photographer’s Confession: Why I’m Skipping DIY Photos This Time

Katie Lyke | Austin Lifestyle Newborn Photographer

As a lifestyle newborn photographer here in Austin, Texas, I’ve spent countless hours capturing the fleeting, precious moments of families welcoming their newest members. Those sleepy surprise smiles, tiny fingers (and impossibly small fingernails!), and the interactions within the newly created (or modified) family unit have always been some of my favorite things to photograph. I find such joy in helping families freeze moments from the first part of an incredible season that goes by in an absolute blur. But as I prepare to welcome my second daughter into the world, I’ve made the decision to step away from the camera and let someone else take the reins. Yes, you read that right—I’m not taking my own newborn photos this time. And I’ll tell you why.

The Weight of Perfectionism

When I had my first baby, I was determined to handle her newborn photos myself. After all, it seemed like the obvious choice—I had the skills, the gear, and the experience.  And I’ll have so much TIME! I thought to myself.  But what I didn’t anticipate was how my desire for perfection would take over. I spent so much time trying to get everything exactly right—fiddling with poses, trying to coax her into staying asleep long enough to capture just one more shot. I’d get her settled, take a shot, adjust a blanket, take another shot—all things I can do with ease for my clients, but felt like an insurmountable feat while battling postpartum exhaustion and healing from a c-section!

Looking back, I’m proud of the photos I took, but I also remember being in near-tears, sweating through my clothes, standing on a step ladder in our office, trying to take an overhead photo of this tiny perfect baby, when I really wanted to just be snuggling with her in the recliner! Trying to play the role of both photographer and new mom led me to feel like I wasn’t doing either role justice.

The Importance of Being Present

This time around, I want things to be different—I want to absolutely savor the moments I know will pass all too quickly. Those first few days with a newborn are a blur of sweet snuggles, sleepy gazes, and moments of pure awe. They’re also filled with late-night feedings, diaper changes, and a level of exhaustion that’s hard to describe unless you’ve been there. The last thing I want is to add the pressure of coordinating a photo shoot to that mix.

Instead of worrying about whether the lighting is just right or if the pose is perfect, I want to focus on bonding with my baby and soaking it all in. I want to be fully present for my growing family—to marvel at my baby’s tiny toes, to watch Everly fall in love with her new baby sister, oh, and for all of us to be in a photo together that isn’t taken on an iPhone!

Trusting Another Professional

As a photographer, I know how important it is to capture those early days, and I wouldn’t dream of skipping newborn photos altogether. But this time, I’m entrusting another Austin lifestyle newborn photographer (the incredible Angela Doran) to document this chapter of our lives. It’s a decision that feels both freeing and exciting.

Choosing someone else means I can step out from behind the camera and into the frame. It means I can focus on the experience rather than the logistics. It means I can let go of the perfectionist in me and trust that another talented photographer will capture our story in a way that feels authentic and beautiful.

I’ll admit, part of me feels a little vulnerable about handing over the creative control. As photographers, we often have a vision for how we want things to look and feel. But I’ve come to realize that there’s beauty in seeing things through someone else’s eyes. Another photographer will bring their own perspective, creativity, and expertise to the table, and I’m genuinely excited to see how they interpret our family’s love story.

In many ways, this decision has deepened my appreciation for the families who trust me to document their newborn season. I understand, on an even more personal level now, how meaningful it is to let someone else hold the responsibility of capturing and preserving such precious moments.

Giving Myself Grace

Motherhood is a balancing act, and one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of giving myself grace. It’s okay to acknowledge my limits and to prioritize what matters most. For me, that means letting go of the expectation that I have to do it all. It means embracing the chaos, the imperfection, and the beauty of these early days without feeling like I need to document every second myself.

This decision isn’t about taking a step back from my passion for photography; it’s about leaning into my role as a mom. It’s about allowing myself to be in the moment, to be cared for, and to be present in a way that feels meaningful and right for our family.

A Reminder for Fellow Moms

If you’re a mom-to-be or a new mom reading this, I want to encourage you to give yourself the same grace. Whether you’re a professional photographer or someone who just loves snapping photos on your phone, don’t let the pressure to document everything perfectly overshadow the beauty of simply being present. Hire someone you trust, hand over the camera to your partner, or just sit back and embrace the candid, messy moments as they come. These days are wild and fleeting, and your presence is far more valuable than any perfectly staged photo.

Looking Ahead

As I prepare for this next chapter, I’m filled with overwhelming gratitude and excitement. I know the days ahead will be full of challenges, joys, and memories I’ll treasure forever. And while I’m giving up the reins in my role as photographer for this brief moment, I’m stepping wholeheartedly into my next calling of mom-of-two, with all the love, patience, and grace that role demands.

This decision feels right for me, and I hope it inspires others to find what feels right for them. At the end of the day, it’s not about having the perfect photo; it’s about cherishing the moments that make up this beautiful, messy, wonderful journey called motherhood.