Spotlight on Katrina Mattingly, famed Georgia Photographer!

When it comes to capturing precious early memories of your little one, we can't think of anyone more talented than Katrina Mattingly, of Katrina Barrow photography. Her signature bright, clean look can be spotted across all her magnificent photos. We regularly receive the most gorgeous photos from her client session and we're amazed how she captures the true beauty of each child.

We sat down to learn more about Katrina's journey.

Can you share a little about your journey into newborn and family photography? What drew you to this in the first place?

My journey into newborn and baby photography began with my path to motherhood. I worked in publishing before my daughter Lainie was born. But it was our struggle with infertility that truly pushed me to leave the publishing and PR world and work with moms!

At 28, I learned having a child would be a long, difficult road. After two years of roller coaster appointments, Lainie was finally here. Believing she might be my only child, I was determined to capture every moment so I could always look back. A picture took on a whole new meaning to me. There was a good chance that I would only get one go at the living all the moments.

My experience with Lainie and my love for photography blossomed into something more. I was drawn to photographing other families, especially those who had walked similar paths. Each session became a celebration of love and resilience. A chance to connect with other moms who have gone through similar trials, a way to heal and not feel alone.

Every time I pick up my camera, I'm not just taking pictures. I'm preserving moments of joy, connecting with parents who understand the journey, and honoring the incredible gift of family - however it comes to be.

What are your top tips for parents preparing for a newborn or family photoshoot?

1. Hire a photographer you trust - Choose someone whose style and approach resonate with you. When you trust your photographer, you can relax during the session, letting go and truly feeling the moment. This is how magical, authentic pictures are captured.

2. Book early - Reach out to your chosen photographer towards the end of your first trimester. Many photographers book up months in advance. Once your baby arrives, you'll pick the exact session date. Remember, the focus after birth should be on healing and bonding. Those sweet newborn traits can be captured beautifully anytime within the first month.

3. Time it right (for families with toddlers) - If you have a toddler or children 3 and under, try to schedule around nap times when kids are typically in the best mood. However, be prepared to roll with the punches – young children can be unpredictable, and that's okay! It's completely normal for your toddler to not want to sit still during the session.

4. Pack your bag the night before - Mom brain is real! Make a list on your phone as you think of things throughout the day. Pack essentials like diapers, wipes, and comfort items for kids. Being prepared will help you feel more relaxed on the day of the shoot.

5. Relax and be yourself - Natural, candid moments often make the best photos. Try not to stress about perfection, especially with active toddlers. Some of the most cherished photos come from unplanned, spontaneous moments.

6. Consider hair and makeup - Getting professional styling can help you feel confident and camera-ready, giving you one less thing to worry about while managing energetic little ones. Manage expectations - With young kids, things may not go exactly as planned. Be flexible and patient. Remember, a skilled photographer can work with even the most active children to capture beautiful images.

7. Have fun - Enjoy the experience of capturing this special time with your family. Let your children's personalities shine through, even if that means a few wiggles and giggles along the way.

What are your best tips for parents to ensure they baby is comfortable and happy during the session?

Feed baby just before your session starts, this helps ensure they're content and more likely to sleep during the shoot. For breastfed babies, look for relaxed fists as a sign of a full belly. It's also a good idea to bring a pacifier, even if your baby doesn't typically use one. It can be a helpful tool to soothe them during the session if needed.

Expect the studio to be warm - this is intentional and important for your baby's comfort. A warm, naked baby is a happy baby, especially during those adorable bare-skin poses. Your photographer should also have a sound machine on hand. White noise can be very soothing for newborns and helps them stay calm throughout the session.

When choosing a photographer, make sure you hire someone who is trained and experienced in newborn photography. They'll know how to safely pose and handle your baby, as well as how to create a comfortable environment. An experienced photographer will also have tricks up their sleeve to keep your baby comfortable and work around any fussy moments.

As a parent, one of the best things you can do is stay relaxed yourself. Babies can sense their parents' emotions, so if you're calm, it will help your baby feel secure and content. Trust your photographer's process and be flexible with timing. Sometimes the best photos happen in between feedings or diaper changes, so don't worry if things don't go exactly as planned. Remember, a skilled newborn photographer will be prepared for all scenarios and will work with you to ensure your baby's comfort and safety throughout the session.

How do you create a relaxed atmosphere during a session?

In my studio, it all starts with good communication. That's the key to making families feel at ease. I've found that when you truly understand what is important to your families and what they want to remember as moms, everything flows better. After working with kids for years, I've gotten pretty good at going with the flow. Little ones can be unpredictable, but that's part of the fun!

I really focus on helping everyone feel comfortable in front of the camera. It's not just about having a nice studio space - though that helps. I make sure to give plenty of encouragement and let parents and kids know how great they're doing. It's amazing how a few kind words can help people relax and be themselves.

A great session isn't about perfect poses. It's about catching those real, honest moments between family members. By keeping things relaxed and natural, I create a space where families can just be themselves. And that's when the magic happens - those unscripted moments that make the best photographs.

What advice do you have for parents choosing outfits for their newborn session?

When selecting outfits for your newborn session, keep these tips in mind:

Stick to soft colors: Choose muted, gentle tones that won't overpower your natural skin tone. Avoid loud or bold colors that might distract from the tender moments with your newborn.

Prioritize comfort: Wear clothes you feel at ease in. If you find yourself constantly adjusting an outfit, it's probably not the right choice. Comfort translates to confidence in photos.

Mix patterns thoughtfully: Don't be afraid to combine different patterns, but vary the style and size of the prints. This creates visual interest without clashing.

Flatter postpartum bodies: For new moms, consider outfits with waist definition and voluminous sleeves. These styles tend to look great on post-baby bodies, enhancing your silhouette while keeping you comfortable.

Choose soft, flowing fabrics: Materials like cotton, linen, or soft knits photograph beautifully and move naturally.

Coordinate, don't match: Aim for complementary colors and styles among family members rather than identical outfits.

Consider texture: Incorporate subtle textures like lace, knits, or soft weaves to add depth to your photos without overwhelming them.

Keep jewelry minimal: Opt for simple, classic pieces that won't detract from your face or your baby.

Ignore trends, stay true to yourself: Choose outfits that reflect your personal style rather than following current fashion trends. This approach ensures you'll love your look for years to come, regardless of changing styles.

Can you share some of your favorite Feltman outfits that photograph well?

My favorites would be these daygowns:  Girls Classic Smocked Take Me Home Gown, Neutral Take Me Home Gown, Girls Embroidered Folded Daygown, and the Boys Leaf Embroidered Gown. 

What tips can you share for first-time clients when planning a photoshoot?

The biggest tip I can give you is to pack your bag a few days in advance. Create a list on your phone as you think of things - you'd be surprised how many little items you might need! This way, you're not scrambling at the last minute.

Another game-changer? Hire professionals to help you pull it all together. Look for a studio that offers support services like wardrobe styling or hair and makeup. These extras can really take the load off and help you feel more prepared and confident.

Don't worry about being perfectly put together or well-rested - we know that's not always possible with a newborn! Your photographer understands the realities of new parenthood. Just come as you are - that's part of this beautiful, chaotic time in your life.

Talk to your photographer about what you're hoping for, but also trust their expertise. They're pros at working with newborns and tired parents! Remember, those unplanned, spontaneous moments often make the best shots. A yawn, a stretch, or even a little fussiness - these are all part of your baby's story.

At the end of the day, this photoshoot is about celebrating your new family. So take a deep breath, be kind to yourself, and be okay with imperfect, and absolutely perfect all at the same time!

How do you ensure that your clients have the best possible experience?

Your experience is my top priority, and it all starts before you even step into the studio. I've learned that being one step ahead can make all the difference, so I'm always thinking about how to make your session smooth and enjoyable.

We'll chat before your shoot - it's one of my favorite parts of the process. We'll talk about what you're hoping for, address any concerns, and I'll answer all your questions. This helps us get on the same page and puts you at ease. Plus, it gives me a chance to get to know you a bit, which makes the actual shoot day so much more fun and relaxed.

But here's the thing - at the end of the day, this isn't about my art or my business. It's about you. It's about capturing your precious moments and creating memories you'll cherish for years to come. Your comfort, your joy, your moments - that's what really matters to me. I want each session to be more than just a photoshoot. I want it to be an experience you'll look back on with a smile. So whether it's going the extra mile to make you feel at ease, being flexible to fit your needs, or simply listening to your ideas - I'm all in.

My goal? To make your photoshoot the best it can possibly be. Because your memories deserves to be told beautifully.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time when you’re not photographing newborns and families?

I'm all about quality time with my family. My daughter and I love baking together - there's something special about creating in the kitchen. And travel? That's our family's passion. We're always on the lookout for new places to explore, whether it's a local farmers market or a tiny café in a small European town.

But I also really enjoy the quieter moments. I love wandering through antique shops or just soaking in the atmosphere of an old bookstore. It's those simple, everyday experiences that really bring me joy. The highlight of my day is often those few minutes before bedtime with Lainie. We'll curl up with a good book, and she gets to ask one question about how the world works. It's our special way of closing out the night, and I treasure those moments. These simple pleasures, both big and small, are what really keep me grounded and inspired, both in life and in my work.

After families receive their gorgeous photos, are you there to guide them on how to use/print/display?

I offer a range of services beyond the photoshoot, including custom framing, design consultations, and personalized birth announcements, to help busy parents effortlessly showcase their precious memories without adding to their already full plates.

Thank you, Katrina, for sharing so much with us!

Reach out to Katrina to schedule your next photoshoot!

Katrina Mattingly www.kbarrowphotography.com 201 N Columbia Ave Rincon GA 31326 912-432-9979 hello@kbarrowphotography.com