As a photographer, I’ve always been drawn to certain moods and tones. Each image I capture tells a story, and with newborn photography, there’s an intimate, emotional layer that requires delicate handling. One of my favorite styles to shoot is dark and moody newborn photography. It’s a style that speaks to the quiet beauty and vulnerability of new life in a way that feels more profound than your typical bright, airy shots.
But there’s another thing that enhances my love for this style: the deep, rich shade of dark turquoise. It’s a color that resonates with me as both an artist and an individual, and it has a unique place in my photography work. I adore this moody style and how dark turquoise plays a key role in my process.
There’s something timeless about the darkness in a photograph. It’s not about shadows or harsh contrasts; it’s about evoking a sense of calm, intimacy, and sophistication. Dark and moody newborn photos often make use of muted tones and soft lighting, allowing the natural beauty of the baby and their environment to take center stage.
I find that this style reflects the stillness and serenity that surrounds a newborn’s first moments. Unlike overly bright, high-energy images that scream for attention, dark and moody photos tend to feel more reflective. It’s like capturing a whispered moment of quiet connection between the newborn and the world they’ve just entered. These photos allow the viewer to focus on the subtle details — the soft curve of a tiny hand, the vulnerability in their closed eyes. It’s about depth, emotion, and the beauty that often lies beneath the surface.
I’ve always been a fan of tones that speak to depth and richness, and the darker hues create such a powerful atmosphere. The muted tones allow for an emotional connection with the viewer, drawing them into the photograph rather than bombarding them with excessive light. It’s more about feeling and connection than simple aesthetics.
One of the reasons I love dark and moody photography is that it allows for a deeper exploration of color. And when it comes to color, dark turquoise is my absolute favorite.
Why dark turquoise? To me, it’s a color that feels both timeless and contemporary. It has a rich, calming quality that evokes a sense of peace. It’s a perfect balance between cool blues and rich greens, with just enough depth to avoid feeling too bold or too light.
For me, dark turquoise fits perfectly with the intimate, soft mood I aim for in newborn photos. The color wraps the baby in a beautiful, serene embrace, which feels so fitting for a newborn session. It has a subtle elegance to it, without being too stark or jarring.
The richness of dark turquoise also adds a level of sophistication that I feel enhances the overall look and feel of my photography. It’s a color that feels deeply personal to me, as it often represents calm and introspection, and it allows me to work in the shadows without losing the softness and warmth that newborns deserve.
When it comes to photography, style is everything. It’s about creating images that reflect who you are as an artist. The dark and moody approach to newborn photography resonates with me because it feels like a way to encapsulate emotions in a very genuine, understated manner.
As a photographer, I don’t just want to capture an image — I want to capture a feeling. Dark and moody photography with touches of dark turquoise allows me to do that in a way that feels authentic and true to my artistic vision. Every image is an opportunity to convey something deeper, to create a connection between the viewer and the baby, and to reflect the beauty that can be found in the quiet, subtle moments.
~Brandy Lewis (East Bay Newborn Baby Photographer)
