Unwrapping the Magic: A Recap of My Newborn Photography Journey at ShutterFest 2026


What an incredible experience it was to be back in St. Louis for ShutterFest this year! As a professional photographer based in Bettendorf, Iowa, there is nothing quite like the energy of thousands of creatives coming together to level up their craft. While I spend most of my days providing newborn photography in the Quad Cities, stepping into the role of an educator at a national conference was a highlight of my year.

This year was particularly special because I had the honor of teaching a newborn photography workshop that broke the mold. If you missed it, here is a look at what we covered and why you need to mark your calendars for next year.


A First-of-Its-Kind Learning Experience

When I was designing my newborn wrapping class, I wanted to move beyond the traditional "sit and watch" model. I know that as photographers—whether you are an established Davenport newborn photographer or a student just starting out—we are tactile learners. To truly master newborn posing and the intricate art of the "base, go-to wrap," you have to feel the tension of the fabric in your own hands.

I am so proud to say that this class was the first of its kind at ShutterFest. We provided a unique, dual-layered approach to learning:

  1. Hands-On Practice: Every student was equipped with a weighted newborn posing doll. This allowed everyone to practice wrapping techniques in real-time, side-by-side with me, ensuring they understood the safety and aesthetics of every tuck and fold.
  2. Live Demonstration & Portfolio Building: Once the students mastered the mechanics on the dolls, I performed a live demonstration with a real newborn baby. I handled the wrapping and soothing while students had the opportunity to capture professional-grade images for their own photography portfolios.


The Response was Overwhelming

I have been teaching photography mentorships for years, but the feedback from this ShutterFest crowd was truly heart-moving. So many of you stopped me in the halls to rave about the "lightbulb moments" you had during the hands-on portion.

"I’ve watched a dozen videos on newborn wrapping, but actually doing it with the doll while you coached us made it finally click. Thank you for being so patient!"

Hearing how many of you felt more confident to go back to your own photography studios—from Moline to Rock Island—and offer these high-end looks to your clients is exactly why I do what I do.


Why You Need to Be at ShutterFest Next Year

If you are a family photographer, newborn specialist, or even a hobbyist looking to go pro in the Quad Cities area, you cannot afford to miss ShutterFest. It isn't just a photography conference; it's a community.

Between the world-class keynote speakers, the hands-on shooting bays, and the chance to learn from industry leaders, it is the ultimate investment in your business. I am already dreaming up new ways to help you grow your skills for next year!

Ready to elevate your newborn gallery? While I love teaching at conferences, I also offer local 1-on-1 photography coaching right here in Bettendorf. Keep an eye on my website for upcoming session announcements and professional mentoring.

See you at ShutterFest 2027!


Photography workshop with attendees watching a demonstration using props, lighting umbrella, and newborn posing setup on patterned carpet.
Women sit on patterned carpet during a newborn photography workshop, posing a baby doll in a wicker basket prop.
Group of women attending a photography workshop in a hotel conference room with a large reflector light.
Smiling newborn baby girl swaddled in lavender wrap with floral headband resting in wooden basket.
Sleeping newborn baby swaddled in purple knit wrap and bonnet, resting in a wooden basket on lavender background.
Smiling newborn baby girl swaddled in lavender wrap with floral headband, resting in a wooden basket on purple background.
Sleeping newborn baby wrapped in lavender knit swaddle wearing matching bonnet, nestled in wooden basket.
Sleeping newborn baby wrapped in purple knit blanket with matching bonnet in wooden basket.
Sleeping newborn baby swaddled in lavender wrap wearing knit bonnet, resting in wooden basket on purple fur.
Newborn baby swaddled in mint green wrap, sleeping peacefully in a small box with a lace bonnet on a blue backdrop.
Newborn baby swaddled in mint green wrap, wearing floral headband, sleeping peacefully in a small wooden crate.
Sleeping newborn baby girl in mint green basket with floral headband, wrapped in soft teal blankets.
Sleeping newborn baby girl in mint green basket with floral headband on soft teal fur blanket.