Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalya.
Natalya , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In 2012, after ten years as a portrait and documentary photographer, I introduced dedicated newborn sessions to the Russian market. I devoted countless nights to studying infant physiology and safety, developing gentle posing techniques and pastel-toned lighting setups that became my signature.
In 2016, I self-published Little World of Big Photography—the first Russian-language guide to newborn portraiture—and it was released as the definitive desk reference for thousands of photographers.
Recognizing my passion for teaching, in 2018 I founded the largest online newborn-photography school, welcoming participants from around the world. To date, over a thousand photographers have trained under my guidance. Along the way I’ve served as a jury member of the Russian Photo Awards for four consecutive years and spoken at conferences across Europe.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Sure.Deep-seated cultural prejudices. In Russia, there was a widespread belief that a newborn shouldn’t be shown to anyone for the first forty days after birth. Babies were seen as extremely fragile, and inviting a stranger (with bright lights and props) felt unthinkable.
Overcoming parental fears. I spent hours—sometimes entire sessions—simply answering questions. Parents would ask: “Will the lights hurt their eyes?” “Can this swaddle be too tight?” “What if they wake up and cry?” I developed detailed safety briefs, created short video teasers showing my gentle touch, and offered no-risk mini-shoots just to build confidence.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I run a studio in Vancouver specializing in research-driven, minimalist newborn and family portraiture.
I am proud of:
Solo Exhibition (2022): Debuted a gallery show of newborn and family images as fine-art prints, proving this genre’s place in contemporary art spaces.
First Place, Scientific Conference (2018): Won top honors for my research-based methodology in newborn posing and light safety at an international academic forum.
Top Prize, Art Week Moscow (2025): Earned the gold award for a portrait series that fuses classic composition with modern minimalism.
Published Author: Regular contributor to leading photography journals on topics ranging from color theory to newborn sleep biology.
Educational Resources: Self-published five concise guides—on safe posing, lighting setups, client communication, workflow optimization, and newborn soothing techniques—that thousands of photographers worldwide rely on daily.
What sets me apart is this unique blend of rigorous, physiology-driven practice and a clean, timeless visual style—and my commitment to sharing that knowledge. Whether I’m behind the camera or leading a workshop, I strive to elevate the field by combining hands-on expertise, academic research, and a passion for teaching.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Be present at in-person events
• Attend workshops, conferences or local meet-ups and flag 2–3 people you admire.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mynewbornbeauty.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mynewbornbeauty/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mynewbornbeauty
