Hi, I’m Samantha Xu — a newborn photographer based in Edmonton, Alberta, specializing in timeless, gentle portraits for growing families. I realized I’ve never properly introduced myself here on the blog, so today, I want to share my story and the heart behind my art.
Why Do I Photograph Newborns?
I’ve always loved photography, but I never imagined it would become my career. Since I was 13, I dreamed of being a perfumer — yes, someone who creates fragrances! I studied chemistry at the University of Alberta, carefully planning my path for nearly a decade.
In my graduation year, I was offered a spot at ISIPCA in France, one of the most prestigious schools for perfumers. They only accept 12 students per year into their master’s program, so this was a dream come true — something I had worked toward for 8 years.
But accepting that offer meant moving to France and leaving behind my boyfriend (now my husband). I asked many people for advice, and 99% said, “You have to go — this is your shot at success.” But I knew in my heart that if I left, our relationship wouldn’t survive the distance. It was one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever made, but I chose to stay. I was and am ambitious to build a successful and meaningful career, but my family means more than a successful career life.
After that, I worked many different jobs — in chemistry labs, at insurance companies — but nothing felt right. Over time, I realized I needed to combine both science and art in my work. I needed something creative, something joyful. That’s when I found the answer: photographing babies.
How I Got Started as a Newborn Photographer?
Before launching Little One Photography, I worked as a newborn assistant and later as a photographer at a high-volume studio. On a typical day, we photographed 4–5 newborns with just 1–1.5 hours per session.
There was little time to adjust to each baby’s needs or truly connect with the parents. If a baby was fussy, we often had no choice but to quickly wrap and move on. The schedule didn’t allow time for soothing, feedings, or capturing those tiny hands, toes, and facial features that make newborn photography so magical.
When I started my own business offering custom newborn photography in Edmonton, I knew I wanted something different — something slower, baby-led, and intentional. I wanted newborn parents to feel relaxed, knowing their baby would be treated with the utmost care. I pause for feedings, cuddles, and diaper changes as needed. Every newborn photo session is unhurried, gentle, and focused on creating a safe, loving space.
My Style as a Newborn Photographer?
When photographing newborns and their families, my first priority is to create timless newborn photos. These are the photos you’ll keep forever — photos that remind you how small your baby was, how tiny their fingers were, and how much love surrounded them in those early days. Those details might fade in those sleepless nights, but they will never be forgotten.
My second priority is to keep every image gentle and soft. I’ll always consider your colour preferences and include meaningful tones in your baby’s sets — but I avoid busy or distracting props. I want the focus to stay on your baby, not the background.
Whenever possible, I pose babies in ways that mimic the cozy moments they share with mom and dad — nestled in arms, cradled close to the chest. That tenderness is the soul of your newborn story.
I use a touch of colour in every Edmonton newborn session, because I believe childhood is full of wonder and dreamy hues. During our consultation, we’ll chat about your favourite colours and what feels right for your family. Black and white? That’s for us boring adults — not these tiny, magical humans!
How I Approach Newborn Sessions?
As an Edmonton newborn photographer, I know every family has different styles and preferences. That’s why we always start with a consultation to talk through the details: your ideal poses, colour palette, props, and more.
On newborn photo session day, parents can fully relax. I take care of feeding, burping, soothing, and even diaper changes. You’re welcome to watch, or you can even catch up on sleep — I know how exhausting the first few days can be.
Your baby will never be rushed. I only do poses that your baby feels comfortable with. If a pose doesn’t feel right, we skip it — no stress, no forcing.
All wraps, outfits, and props are washed and sanitized. The studio is fully cleaned and disinfected to ensure the safety of your family. My top priority is to provide a stress-free and hygienic newborn session from beginning to end.
Newborn Photography Awards
At some point, every artist needs feedback from peers. So I began submitting my work to competitions to see how I measured up.
I’m proud to say I’ve received:
- 2nd Place in the AFNS Award
- Multiple recognitions from Baby Photo Awards
- A nomination from the International Photography Awards (IPA)
These honours remind me to keep pushing myself creatively while always putting your baby’s comfort first.
What I Love Most About This Work
Without question — posing newborns and capturing their tiniest details. I know many new parents feel nervous handling such a fragile little baby. I was the same when I started! But once I overcame that fear, I discovered how special those close-up details are: the tiny hairs, the eyelashes, the lips.
Every time I photograph a newborn, I’m reminded how miraculous life is. It grounds me, humbles me, and fills me with joy.
A Few Fun Things About Me
- I don’t drink coffee or tea — water is my go-to!
- I love cats (and have two!)… but I’m allergic to them, so my house is clean 24/7.
- I’m a newborn photographer without kids (unbelievable right?) — I know how hard parenthood is, and I’m not quite ready yet.
- I actually love editing photos, even though most photographers dread it. Weird, I know!
- I’m a night owl — if you get an email from me at 12am, now you know why.
- I secretly want to squish newborn cheeks (but don’t worry, I never do).
- I spend all summer in my backyard garden and all winter doing puzzles.
Let’s Connect
If you’re looking for a gentle, experienced newborn photographer in Edmonton, I’d love to help you capture this once-in-a-lifetime season. My studio is a calm, welcoming space where your baby’s comfort comes first, and your family’s story is told through timeless, heartfelt images. Contact Me Now!
Samantha, the visionary behind Little One Photography, is a passionate photographer with a special gift for capturing the essence of newborns and families. As an awarded newborn photographer, she has honed her craft to create timeless, emotive portraits that families cherish for generations. Samantha’s warm personality and patient approach put even the tiniest clients at ease, allowing her to capture genuine moments of connection and love.
