Photography

Why Skip Froggy Pose for Safer Photography

Hey, you’ve probably seen those adorable newborn pics where the baby’s propped up, head in hands, looking like a cute little frog. People either love it or hate it—and I get why it’s a hit. But here’s the deal: I don’t do the froggy pose anymore. Yep, I used to, but I’ve ditched it for good reasons in my photography journey —safety, comfort, and keeping it real. My free masterclass kicks it off with simple posing. Let’s snap those fleeting wins, fun and simple!

froggy pose, newborn photography masterclass

Is the Froggy pose safe for newborns?

Newborn safety is my number one. That froggy look? It’s not something babies do on their own—their tiny necks can’t hold up their heads like that. It’s a balancing act, propped elbows and all, usually stitched together with some Photoshop magic. Sure, some pros nail it safely, but I’m not here for the risk. I’d rather keep bubs chilled out in poses that feel natural, not forced.

What’s the froggy pose for newborns?

It’s when the baby’s legs are tucked up, head resting on their hands—like a frog chilling on a lily pad. Cute? Totally. But I reckon babies look just as gorgeous curled up the way they were in the womb. No need to twist them into something they’re not.

How’d I Used to Do the Froggy pose

Back in the day, I’d pull it off like this: prop the baby’s elbows, keep their bum low for comfort, and never take my hands off them. Snap two shots—one with hand on head, the other hands supporting their arms—and blend them in Photoshop. It worked, but it’s a hassle I don’t miss.

The newborn froggy pose how to graphic
Froggy Newborn Pose before and after
Froggy_Newborn_pose, head in hands newborn pose

Why I choose not to do the Froggy pose?

My style has evolved. I used to rock the froggy pose, but it started feeling off. I’m not into forcing babies into unnatural positions anymore—I’d rather catch their real, cozy vibe. That said, I’m not anti-staging completely! I still love popping them in adorable buckets or adding some flowers and greenery for a cute touch, as long as it’s comfy and easy. Even if a bub was okay in the froggy pose, I’ve seen them settle way faster into simpler, womb-like setups. That’s where the magic happens for me—and the parents I work with.

Those newborn days won’t wait! My free masterclass = pro pics in 30 mins. Want it all? My $179 course has every trick—no extras, just mastery. Mums, beginners, even pros—let’s snap those wins before they’re gone!

Jess’s free newborn photography masterclass graphic – best-newborn-courses

DIY Froggy Pose? Nope!

While many talented photographers can safely achieve the Froggy Pose, I don’t anymore, so I won’t tell you how to place your baby into it! Too many risks, too much fuss and not to mention the stress especially when starting out. I stick to easy, comfy setups that let babies shine without the drama.

Is it normal for babies to have frog legs?

Yep, totally normal! Newborns often flop their legs out like little frogs—it’s how they hung out in the womb. It’s cute as heck and fades after a few weeks as they stretch out and grow.

How long do newborns have frog legs?

That frog-leg vibe usually sticks around for the first few weeks. Every baby’s different, though—they’ll shift gears when they’re ready.

Warrnambool Newborn photographer

What is a frog position baby hypotonia?

Hypotonia’s when a baby’s muscles are super floppy—think low tone, loose limbs. It’s not the same as their natural frog-leg chill; it’s a medical thing that needs a doc’s input. I’m extra careful with every bub, especially if they’ve got something like that going on.

Wrapping It Up

So yeah, I’ve waved goodbye to the froggy pose. It’s not about judging the pros who rock it—I just love letting babies be themselves, cozy and safe. That’s my jam now, and it’s why my sessions feel laid-back and real. Want to snap those kinds of pics yourself? I’ve packed all my best tricks into an online course—no fancy poses, just simple, heart-melting shots you’ll treasure forever. We even have a FREE Newborn MasterClass ~ see below!

Meet Jess, a newborn photographer obsessed with capturing those tiny, fleeting moments, based in country Victoria, Australia. She’s been there—juggling a camera while raising a newborn herself—so she totally gets how overwhelming it can be for parents.

That’s why Jess is all about making it easier. She’s got FREE online goodies for parents and photographers, packed with quick, no-fuss tips to snap gorgeous photos of settled, sleepy newborns like a pro.

Whether you’re a parent desperate to freeze those early days in time or a photographer ready to up your game, Jess has your back on this wild, beautiful ride.

Want to get started? Check out Jess’s FREE Newborn & Baby Photography Made Easy Masterclass. No experience? No problem! In under 30 minutes, you’ll pick up simple tricks to nail professional-quality baby pics, feel more confident, and ditch the frustration.

WATCH NOW – her next free webinar’s just around the corner!

Jess’s free newborn photography masterclass graphic – best-newborn-courses

HEY, I’M JESS 👋

When I was a new mum, I fumbled through blurry photos and a fussy bub 😅—every missed shot felt like a heartbreak.


Fast forward 10+ years, hundreds of newborns, and training with world-class pros… I’ve cracked the code to gorgeous baby photos made easy.


Now I teach simple, real-life hacks that work for mums, beginners, and even the pros—no fluff, just results.

 

I also share our family’s health journey, uncovering hidden triggers in everyday products that quietly affect wellbeing—a passion that’s grown alongside my photography.

🎥 Want to learn my best tricks in just 30 minutes? Join my FREE Baby Photography Masterclass and start snapping stunning photos today!

Photography
“Jess was absolutely amazing with our newborn son during the shoot. I felt so comfortable with the way she nurtured his needs and comforted him during the process. Plus the final product was amazing and there is lots of different packages you can choose from that suit your needs."
~ Jasmyn Bawden

 

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I'm Jessica Van Den Berghe, a small-town

Camperdown girl with big dreams.
I'm hooked on Netflix, in-door plants, candles and crispy pork crackling with apple sauce.

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