Why do I always ask parents to turn their baby away from the camera, bring them up close to their face, close their eyes, and breathe?
Newborns have a scent that is like no other. It’s a mixture of fresh baby skin, a hint of talcum powder, and a sweet, milky fragrance that is uniquely their own. And for new mothers, that smell is pure heaven. In fact, it’s not uncommon for new mums to spend hours simply sniffing their babies, reveling in the intoxicating aroma that only a newborn can provide.
So why do we love the smell of our newborns so much? For starters, it’s a primal instinct. Our sense of smell is closely tied to our emotions and memories, and the scent of our baby is a powerful trigger for the love and bonding hormones that are released when we hold our little one close. When we smell our baby, we’re reminded of the love we feel for them and the bond we’re building with them.
But it’s not just about the emotional connection. There’s also a practical aspect to it. The smell of a newborn is a sign of health and cleanliness. Our babies are pure and untainted, and their scent is a testament to that. It’s a comforting reminder that our little one is healthy, happy, and thriving.
For many new mums, the smell of their baby is also a source of comfort. When you’re up all night with a fussy baby, the scent of their skin can be a calming and helps to soothe both you and your little one. It’s a way to connect with your baby even when they’re not in your arms, and to remind yourself that they’re safe and well.
And let’s not forget about the memories. The scent of a newborn is a powerful trigger for memories, and many new mums find that thesmell of their little one brings back vivid memories of those early days, weeks, and months. Even years later, the scent of baby skin can transport them back to the time when their child was a tiny little bundle in their arms.
So if you’re a new mum who finds herself sniffing your baby more often than not, don’t worry. You’re not alone. It’s a reminder of the love you feel for your little one, and a symbol of the incredible journey you’re on together.
Enjoy it, breathe it in, and hold onto it for as long as you can.
When we look at a photo from a special moment, our brain is able to access the emotions and feelings that we experienced at that time, making the memory feel more vivid and real.
It’s simply why I have to capture these photos for new Mums and Dads.
