Shelley Barrett is a trusted newborn photographer who serves clients from Birmingham, AL and beyond.

First, congratulations on your precious new arrival! Becoming a parent is one of life’s most important and rewarding journeys. Newborn sessions are my absolute favorite—there’s nothing more magical than capturing those tiny details, gentle expressions, and the tender connections that make this season so fleeting and unforgettable.

You will never forget the first moment you laid eyes on your daughter or the first time you heard your son cry. These are truly magical moments. As much as we hope and pray they will stay little forever, they grow up anyway. Those first few weeks seem to fly by and each moment becomes a fleeting memory.

As a newborn photographer, I strive to capture those first few weeks and turn the resulting images into a work of fine art to be treasured forever. Newborn photography requires a large amount of training and an insane amount of patience, and you’ll be happy to know I have plenty of both! I am very regularly referred to as the “Baby Whisperer," and not to toot my own horn, but I feel like it that is accurate!

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I aim to create a beautiful variety of images that capture just how tiny, delicate, and extraordinary your newborn truly is. Your brand-new baby is precious cargo, and nothing matters more to me than their comfort and safety.

Newborn photography—especially the artistic, posed images you see today—must be done with great care. Many of these portraits require advanced training and thoughtful editing techniques to achieve the final look while never compromising your baby’s well-being. Safety is always my top priority during every session.

With over 10 years of professional newborn photography experience—and as a mother of four myself—you can trust that your baby is in capable, loving hands. I create a calm, cozy environment and work patiently to encourage relaxed, sleepy moments… and yes, I always aim for those sweet newborn smiles.

Newborn sessions are designed for babies from birth up to three months, with the sweetest window typically between 5–24 days. I also love photographing slightly older newborns, capturing their unique, peaceful stage. Parents and siblings are always welcome to be included in your session.

I book quickly, so I recommend reserving your session during the second trimester. I’ll tentatively hold your spot based on your due date, and once your baby arrives, we’ll schedule your official session time and date.

Studio Wardrobe

Your newborn session includes full access to my thoughtfully curated collection of fine-art props and wardrobe, each piece carefully selected to complement your baby beautifully. My studio features an abundant assortment of newborn props, backdrops, headbands, and outfits—allowing every session to feel custom, cohesive, and timeless. And yes, I thrive on a rainbow of colors to perfectly match your vision.

So... Many... Colors...

“There are always two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer.” — Ansel Adams

The Experience

I reserve up to four hours for full newborn sessions, allowing plenty of time for feedings, soothing, and gentle transitions. Most sessions last around two to three hours, but your baby always sets the pace—there is never any rush.

I invite you to explore my website and let me know if there are any setups or styles you’re drawn to. I love a creative challenge and am always happy to customize your session; simply let me know ahead of time if you have something specific in mind.

I recommend booking your newborn session during pregnancy—ideally in your second trimester. I accept a limited number of newborns each month to ensure a relaxed, unhurried experience, so reserving your spot early is always encouraged. It also allows you to check one important item off your to-do list before those final weeks become extra busy.

If your baby has already arrived, don’t worry. I often have flexibility for last-minute bookings and am happy to photograph babies up to two months old.