NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE FOR BEGINNERS

A complete 12-week mentoring programme to help you confidently photograph newborns, build your portfolio, and start your photography business.

Book a Free Discovery Call

The Newborn Photography Foundation Course is a 12-week online mentoring programme you can join from anywhere in the world, designed to take you from complete beginner to confidently photographing newborns, building a professional portfolio and giving you everything you need to start booking your first clients.

You’ll be guided step by step through everything you need to know, from safely handling and posing newborns to creating beautiful images and building the foundations of a profitable photography business.

By the end of the programme, you won’t just understand how it works - you’ll have done it.

The next intake begins on 20th April 2026

THIS COURSE IS FOR YOU IF...

  • You’re starting from scratch and don’t know where to begin
  • You feel overwhelmed by what equipment you need
  • You’re unsure how to safely pose and handle newborns
  • You want to build a portfolio but don’t have access to babies
  • You’d love to turn this into a business, but don’t know how
  • You want to learn from someone experienced in newborn photography, who can guide you step by step
  • Even if you’ve photographed other subjects before, newborn photography is a completely different skillset; knowing where to start makes all the difference. 

 

If this sounds like you, you’re exactly where most of our students started.

With no experience. No portfolio. And no clear idea of what to do next.

The difference is, they didn’t try to figure it out alone.

 

HERE IS WHAT THAT LOOKS LIKE IN REAL LIFE

  These are real students who started exactly where you are now.

Kate joined the course with no prior experience and a desire to start something of her own. Within weeks, she was confidently photographing her first sessions, building a portfolio she’s proud of, and has already booked her first paying client.

 

Karen joined the course with no prior experience and has just completed the programme. Based in Australia, she’s now confidently creating beautiful newborn images and taking the first steps towards launching her own photography business.

 

Alice, with a background in the performing arts, wanted to build something she could grow alongside her career and create a small business for the future. Just weeks into the course, she was confidently photographing her first session and building a portfolio she’s proud of.

 

If you’re thinking this could be the right path for you, the next step is a quick, no-pressure call to see if the course is a good fit. No pressure. Just a conversation to see if this is the right next step for you.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN (STEP-BY-STEP)

This programme is designed to guide you step by step, so you’re never left wondering what to do next.

Each stage builds on the last, helping you develop your skills, confidence, and portfolio in a structured, supported way.

 

THE CORE CURRICULUM

In your first week, we focus on getting you set up with everything you need to start, without confusion or unnecessary expense.

Newborn photography is a specialised genre, and having the right equipment from the beginning makes all the difference. You’ll learn exactly what you need, what you don't, and how to get started with confidence.

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • The best cameras, lenses, and lighting options for newborn photography (options for most budgets)
  • The essential posing equipment you’ll actually use -without overcomplicating things
  • The props and accessories that create beautiful, professional images
  •  How to start developing your unique style and visual brand from the beginning

In week two, we focus on one of the most important aspects of newborn photography, safety.

You’ll learn how to handle, pose, and photograph newborns in a way that keeps them completely safe, comfortable, and settled throughout the session, so you can work with confidence from the very beginning.

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • How newborn photography differs from other types of photography, and why safety is so critical
  • A simple understanding of newborn physiology and how it affects posing and positioning
  •  The essential safety practices you need to follow in every session
  •  Which poses to avoid, and how to safely achieve beautiful, natural images
  • How to read a baby’s cues and gently settle them into a calm, sleep state

This is one of the most important skills you’ll develop, and one that sets the foundation for everything that follows.

In week three, you’ll be introduced to the essential poses that form the foundation of every newborn session.

You’ll learn how to safely position babies in each pose, and how to move smoothly between them using a simple, structured approach that keeps baby calm and settled throughout.

You’ll be guided through six essential foundation poses that form the backbone of every newborn session:

  • The Portrait Pose
  • The Back Pose
  • The Side Pose
  • The Tummy Pose
  • The Forward-Facing Pose
  • The Awake Pose 

You’ll also learn:

  • How to use posing pillows correctly for each setu
  • A simple posing workflow that keeps baby calm and asleep as you transition between poses
  •  Wrapping techniques to settle babies and create beautiful, natural images
  •  How to safely pose babies using props
 

In week four, you’ll learn how to get the most out of every pose by using different camera angles and thoughtful composition.

Instead of constantly repositioning the baby, you’ll discover how to create a varied, professional gallery simply by changing your perspective, allowing you to work efficiently while capturing a beautiful range of images.

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • The most effective camera angles for each of the foundation poses
  • How to choose the right lens to avoid distortion and create flattering images
  • Simple techniques to create a varied gallery without overhandling the baby
  • Composition principles that elevate your images from simple to professional

In week five, you’ll learn how to use light to create soft, natural, professional looking newborn images.

Lighting can feel overwhelming at first, but you’ll be guided through a simple, easy-to-follow approach using studio flash, so you can confidently light your sessions without guesswork.

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • How to set up and use studio flash lighting for newborn photography
  • The camera settings you need to get consistent, professional results
  • The key principles of beautiful portrait lighting - explained simply
  • How to light each of the foundation poses to create soft, flattering images

You’ll also get lifetime access to six dedicated support videos, showing you exactly how to light each of the core poses step by step.

In week six, you’ll learn how to photograph newborns with their parents - creating the kind of images families treasure most.

These portraits capture connection, emotion, and the story of those early days, and are often the most meaningful images from a session.

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • Three simple, natural family poses that work beautifully every time
  • How to guide parents so your images feel relaxed, connected, and genuine
  • How to capture real emotion — not stiff or awkward moments
  • How to light family portraits to create soft, flattering images

You’ll also learn how to safely and confidently photograph newborns with older siblings.

In week seven, everything comes together.

This is where you prepare for your very first real newborn session, moving from practising with a posing doll to photographing a real baby for the first time.

You’ll be guided step by step through how to plan and approach your session, with the goal of creating one beautiful, professional image you can be proud of.

 

 

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • How to prepare for your first portfolio-building session with confidence
  • The key do’s and don’ts to ensure your session runs smoothly
  • A simple 5-step process for creating a beautifully composed image
  • How to approach your first real session without feeling overwhelmed

This is a big milestone, and you’ll be fully supported every step of the way.

In week eight, you’ll learn how to set up your editing workflow so everything feels simple, organised, and easy to follow.

Instead of feeling overwhelmed by different software and processes, you’ll be guided step by step through how to set everything up correctly - so you can edit your images efficiently and with confidence.

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • A clear, step-by-step workflow for editing your images from start to finish
  • The essential setup for your editing workspace and hardware
  • How to use Photoshop, Lightroom, and Evoto AI in a simple, practical way
  • How to organise your files and workflow so editing stays efficient and stress-free

You’ll also learn how to simplify colour management, so your images look consistent and accurate across screens and print.

In week nine, you’ll learn how to retouch newborn images in a way that looks natural, soft, and true to life.

Newborn skin can present unique challenges from redness and dry skin to baby acne, but you’ll be guided through how to gently enhance your images without over-editing, so your final results remain beautiful and realistic.

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • The essential Photoshop tools used for natural newborn skin retouching
  • A simple, step-by-step workflow for editing and refining your images
  • How to use AI tools to speed up your editing without losing quality
  • How to create soft, timeless black and white images
  • How to streamline your editing using Photoshop actions

You’ll be working on images from your own portfolio session, with three follow-along tutorials guiding you step by step through the retouching process.

In week ten, we focus on building the foundations of your photography business so you can start charging with confidence.

One of the biggest challenges new photographers face is knowing what to charge and how to sell their work. In this module, you’ll learn a clear, simple approach to pricing and sales, so you can begin generating income without second-guessing yourself.

You’ll also learn the difference between digital and printed products, and how to price each in a way that reflects the true value of your work.

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • How to price your work for profit using a simple pricing calculator
  • The most effective sales approaches, including in-person sales and online galleries
  • How to confidently present and sell your images to clients

You’ll also be guided through a proven sales technique, ‘The Reveal Wall’, and how it helped me consistently achieve orders of £1000 and above.

In week eleven, we focus on how to attract the right clients to your business.

Even the most beautiful photography won’t generate income if people don’t know you exist. You’ll learn how to position yourself clearly, communicate your value, and begin attracting clients in a way that feels natural and sustainable.

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • How to market your business using both paid and organic strategies
  • How to build a brand and website that attracts your ideal clients
  • How to create a client experience that leads to repeat bookings and referrals

You’ll also gain insight from a leading UK branding expert, with a bonus interview focused on creating a beautiful, effective website for your photography business.

In your final week, everything comes together.

You’ll focus on the key steps to launching your newborn photography business with clarity and confidence, bringing together everything you’ve learned throughout the course.

We’ll also explore the true value of the service you provide, helping you confidently price your work and move forward with a clear, positive mindset as you begin this next stage of your journey.

In this module, you’ll learn:

  • How to understand and communicate the true value of your work
  •  The three key pillars that support a successful photography business
  • The next practical steps to confidently launch and grow your business

By the end of the programme, you won’t just understand how it works — you’ll have all you need to launch your newborn photography business! 

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET STARTED

To support you at every stage, you’ll also get access to a range of additional resources designed to help you learn faster, build confidence, and stay supported throughout your journey.

Support Videos

Alongside the core lessons, you’ll have access to over 25 additional support videos that reinforce and expand on what you’re learning each week.

These short, focused lessons help you go deeper into key topics - and you can revisit them anytime with lifetime access.

 

Course Downloads and Resources

Each week includes downloadable notes and guides to support your learning. By the end of the programme, these come together as a complete reference you can return to anytime.

You’ll also get access to practical tools including model call templates, Photoshop actions, and printable guides.

Members WhatsApp Support Group

You won’t be doing this alone.

You’ll have access to a dedicated members only WhatsApp group, where you can ask questions, get feedback, and receive ongoing support from both Russ and other students - even after the course ends.

You will also have a private WhatsApp chat (directly with Russ) where you can ask questions and receive feedback, that are unique to your journey. 

INVESTMENT AND NEXT STEPS

The investment for this 12-week mentoring programme is £2000. Because this is a structured, in-depth mentoring experience, we recommend starting with a quick, no-pressure call to make sure it’s the right fit for you.

Find Out If This Course Is Right For You

If you already feel confident this is the right fit, you can secure your place below.

£2000

START DATE: 20 APRIL 2026

One Payment

Apply for This Intake

£550

START DATE: 20 APRIL 2026

£550 p/m (4 monthly payments)

Apply for This Intake

Once you join, you won’t be left waiting - you’ll get immediate access to introductory lessons and private WhatsApp support to help you prepare for the programme starting on 20th April.

The next intake begins on 20th April 2026

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YOUR MENTOR

Hi, I’m Russ Jackson.

I know how overwhelming it can feel when you’re starting something new, especially in a specialised area like newborn photography. There’s a lot to learn, and it’s not always clear where to begin. That’s exactly why I created this programme.

I’m a specialist newborn photographer and educator, with over 25 years of experience in portrait photography. I began photographing newborns in 2011, and since then have built a successful studio and helped hundreds of photographers from over 38 countries develop their skills and confidence in this genre.

Through my teaching, my focus has always been simple: to break everything down into a clear, step-by-step process that makes learning feel achievable, even if you’re starting from scratch.

I still run a busy London-based studio, and everything I teach is based on real-world experience.

If you’re looking for a structured, supportive way to learn newborn photography properly, you’re in the right place.

Have a question about the programme before getting started?

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! This course has been designed specifically for complete beginners, even if you have no prior experience in newborn photography and aren’t sure where to start.

You’ll be guided step by step through the entire process, from understanding your equipment and newborn safety, right through to creating beautiful, professional images. Nothing is assumed, and everything is explained clearly, so you can build your skills with confidence.

You won’t need a portfolio to begin. In fact, you’ll be supported in creating your first professional newborn images during the course itself, with ongoing mentoring and feedback at every stage.

By the end of the programme, you won’t just have new skills, you’ll have the clarity and confidence to move forward and know exactly what to do next.

Yes, and this is where everything starts to come together.

By Week 7, you’ll have built the skills, knowledge, and confidence to photograph your first newborn session safely and professionally.

From that point on, you’ll be encouraged to complete additional portfolio-building sessions, helping you develop your style and create a strong, professional body of work.

It’s completely normal to feel nervous at this stage, but you won’t be doing it alone. I’ll guide you before and after each session, helping you prepare properly and refine your work so you grow in confidence every step of the way.

Many students go on to create beautiful, professional, and sellable images in their very first sessions. often exceeding their own expectations.

Yes! This is a fully online mentoring programme, and students join from all over the world.

All the lessons and live Zoom sessions are recorded, so you can learn at a time that suits your schedule, regardless of your time zone.

I’ve worked with photographers from over 20 countries, in all time zones, helping them build successful newborn photography businesses in their local markets.

Each week’s main lesson is released on Sunday at 9 am (London time), giving you time to watch it before our live session on Monday evening at 8pm, where we discuss the topic further and I answer your questions.

We also hold a second live session, the Thursday Catch-Up at 8 pm (London time). This is where we recap the week, review progress, and provide additional feedback and support.

If you can’t attend live, that’s absolutely fine. All of the Monday Night Lives and Thursday Catch-Ups are recorded, so you can watch everything at a time that suits you.

The programme is designed to fit around real life - so you can learn at your own pace without falling behind.

I’ve even had students complete the course after having a baby midway through - so it’s designed to be flexible

Each week includes two live sessions, held on Monday and Thursday, each lasting around 60–90 minutes.

In addition, there are bonus support videos and occasional practical tasks to help you apply what you’ve learned.

As a guide, most students set aside around three hours per week to get the most from the programme.

That said, everything is recorded and designed to be flexible - so you can fit the learning around your schedule without falling behind.

You’ll never be left to figure things out on your own.

Throughout the programme, you’ll have ongoing support in several ways, so help is always available when you need it.

Each week, we run live Q&A sessions on Monday and Thursday, where you can ask questions and get real-time feedback.

You’ll also have access to private WhatsApp support, including a dedicated group for your intake and the option to message me directly for more personalised guidance.

Within each module, you can reach out with questions related to that week’s content, and you’re always welcome to contact me by email if you need additional support.

This means you’re supported at every stage, not just during the course, but as you continue building your skills and confidence beyond it.

Many students say this level of support is what makes the biggest difference in their progress.

Each week includes bonus support videos to help deepen your understanding of the topic.

Some modules also include a simple practical task to help you apply what you’ve learned.

As this is a mentoring programme, these tasks allow me to give personalised feedback, helping you improve quickly and build confidence as you progress.

Everything is designed to feel manageable and supportive, so you can develop your skills step by step, without feeling overwhelmed.

Newborn photography is a specialised genre, and there are some additional items you’ll need as you progress, but you don’t need to have everything from the start.

In fact, you won’t need any additional equipment for the first two weeks of the course, giving you time to plan and budget without pressure.

Once you join, you’ll receive a clear equipment guide showing exactly what you need, when you need it, along with links to trusted suppliers.

Your mentoring also begins straight away, so I’ll help you make informed, budget-conscious decisions and avoid unnecessary purchases.

You’ll also have access to exclusive discounts from trusted suppliers, helping you cost-effectively build your setup.

Early registration is recommended, as it gives you more time to plan, budget, and feel fully prepared before the practical elements of the course begin.

The course is designed as a step-by-step, structured programme, with each module building on the one before it.

For that reason, we recommend following the course in order; this ensures you develop strong foundations and progress with confidence, without feeling overwhelmed.

Newborn photography involves many layers of skill and knowledge, and this structure is designed to help you learn everything in a clear, manageable way.

Even if you already have some experience, each module builds on the last, so you’ll still gain valuable insights, refined techniques, and a deeper understanding as you move through the programme.

You’ll have lifetime access to all course content, including lesson recordings, Q&A replays, support videos, and downloadable resources.

You’ll also remain part of the private WhatsApp support group after the programme ends, so you can continue to ask questions and receive guidance as you build and grow your newborn photography business.

The next intake begins on 20th April 2026.

As soon as you register, you’ll get immediate access to three introductory lessons, along with a detailed guide to the equipment I recommend, so you can start preparing straight away.

You’ll also have access to 1:1 mentoring from day one, allowing me to guide you on your setup and help you avoid investing in unnecessary or unsuitable gear.

This early support means you can begin with clarity and confidence, before the full programme even starts.

For this reason, we recommend securing your place early.

The investment for the programme is £2,000.

A payment plan is also available, allowing you to spread the cost across four monthly instalments of £550.

As soon as your first payment is made, you’ll receive immediate access to the first three introductory lessons, and your mentoring begins straight away, so you can start preparing before the live programme begins.

Many students find they can begin generating income soon after completing the course, often recouping their investment within their first five paid sessions. 

Yes! but only if you complete the entire programme. 

WHAT OUR STUDENTS ARE CREATING

These images were created by students during or shortly after completing the programme.

WHAT OUR STUDENTS ARE SAYING

A glimpse into the experiences of photographers who have completed the programme.

"Despite having no prior experience… I now feel much more confident after the 12 weeks of training… I’ve gained so much knowledge and am now far more assured in my photography skills."

Sahana C
USA

"I’m speechless about how this all could happen in a few months!"

Susanna Katajala
Finland

"Before I started, I barely knew how to use my camera… now I feel confident going into my newborn sessions"

Shauni Tuffin
U.K

"The level of detail and organisation of the course was exceptional… everything was easy to understand and implement."

Megan Crowder
New Zealand

"I’ve learned so many practical skills… my sessions are now much smoother and easier."

Alex Kai Yiu
Australia

"I now feel fully ready to master newborn sessions with confidence and consistency… it was truly a turning point in my photography journey."

Rosalba Gattella
Switzerland

"Russ was always there for us… encouraging and supporting us every step of the way."

Jana Rothe
Germany

"Taking this newborn foundation course was one of the best decisions I made as a photographer. The course is incredibly well-structured, covering all the essential aspects of newborn safety and comfort"

Jekaterina Trojanova
U.K

"Russ’s mentorship has been nothing short of exceptional. His unwavering support and availability to answer questions, beyond just the scheduled sessions - made a world of difference. "

Stephanie Franco
UK

RATED FIVE STARS BY STUDENTS WORLDWIDE

Check out these Independent reviews on TrustPilot from photographers who have completed the programme.

WHAT YOU WILL GET INSIDE THE PROGRAMME

This is a complete, step-by-step mentoring programme designed to take you from beginner to confident newborn photographer

  • The next course begins on 20th April 2026
  • A complete 12-week step-by-step curriculum
  • 24 live Q&A sessions with real-time feedback
  • Over 15 hours of bonus support videos
  • Weekly course notes and downloadable resources
  • Lifetime access to all content and recordings
  • A dedicated student WhatsApp support group
  • Direct access to me via private WhatsApp mentoring
  • Exclusive discounts on recommended equipment and suppliers
  • The option to attend a live in-person workshop in London

 

The real value of this programme lies in the system I’ve developed. I will guide you, step by step, through the entire process, so by the end, you have the skills, confidence, and clarity to build a beautiful, professional newborn photography portfolio.

READY TO START YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY JOURNEY?

The next course begins on 20th April 2026. Early registration is recommended.

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