Behind The Print with NCeePhotography
Welcome to the latest episode of Behind The Print, where we bring you the creative stories of industry leaders shaping the world of professional printing. Nikki Cee owner of NCeePhotography & celebrated newborn photographer serving the DMV area, transformed her passion for photography and storytelling into a thriving creative business that captures life’s earliest and most meaningful moments. From the tender emotion of newborn portraits to the artistry of carefully styled sets, her work turns fleeting seconds into timeless keepsakes that families treasure for generations. This story offers valuable lessons for marketing professionals, small business owners, graphic designers, and print enthusiasts alike. It reveals how tangible imagery, emotional connection, and the power of print can elevate a brand, inspire creativity, and preserve stories that last a lifetime.
Below, you’ll find the transcript of our conversation, edited for clarity to ensure easy reading. If you want the full, authentic experience, make sure to check out the video attached below.
11-minute read
“I thought I couldn’t do newborn photography, and that’s exactly why I learned to master it.” Nikki Cee
Transcripts from Behind The Print with Nikki Cee, owner of NCeePhotography & Celebrated Newborn Photographer Serving the DMV Area
Welcome back to Behind The Print podcast, where we feature industry leaders and uncover the creative minds behind businesses in the professional printing world. Our mission is to provide you with inspiring, actionable resources to elevate your business projects and accelerate your journey to excellence in profit and print.
Today’s episode is titled Creating Newborn Photography with Nikki Cee. We’re exploring how emotion, artistry, and storytelling come together to capture life’s earliest moments, those tiny details that mean everything. From cozy studio setups to heartfelt family connections, our guest turns new beginnings into timeless keepsakes. She’s the owner of NCeePhotography and a passionate newborn photographer serving the DMV area. Nikki, welcome to the show!
Nikki Cee: Hey, y’all! Hey, hey! Thanks for having me.
Zoe Fisher: Oh Nikki, it’s our pleasure! So how’s your day been so far?
Nikki Cee: Fantastic! Just chasing around twins who are learning how to pull up on everything, so it’s always eventful around here.
Zoe Fisher: Sounds like a full house! For those who haven’t discovered your work yet, who do you primarily serve as a newborn photographer in the DMV area?
Nikki Cee: Honestly, everyone, but everybody knows me for my newborn sessions. And cake smashes! I just love the babies. Most people call me the baby photographer or the baby whisperer. Everyone’s welcome, but the babies definitely have my heart.
Zoe Fisher: The baby whisperer, that has such a nice ring to it!
Nikki Cee: Right? Except when it comes to my own kids. Mine don’t hear the whisper. We’re still working on that!
Zoe Fisher: I love it. So what are some of the biggest challenges or emotional needs that families come to you with when booking a newborn session?
Nikki Cee: The biggest challenge usually comes down to timing. Sometimes families find me a little too late. My newborn sessions are best done within the first two weeks after birth. Once the baby is a month old, they’re too alert and active for certain poses or props. People think, well, it’s still a baby, but for safety, comfort, and fit, everything from prop sizes to clothing, those early days really matter. It’s all about safety and capturing that precious newborn stage while it lasts.
Zoe Fisher: That’s fascinating! I wouldn’t have thought that such a small difference in age would change the entire session, but it makes sense. Once babies get curious, they’re reaching for everything, tasting the world.
Nikki Cee: Exactly. It’s adorable, but not ideal when you’re trying to get that peaceful newborn photo!
“The vibe is everything. When the kids are comfortable, the parents are too.” Nikki Cee
Zoe Fisher: You mentioned props earlier, and I love how creative your setups are. Tell me about your approach to finding or choosing props.
Nikki Cee: Oh, I’m a total prop magnet now. I’ll be out somewhere and spot the tiniest little thing and think, I can use that for a baby. My friends and clients even send me ideas or find props for me. I love discovering new textures, colors, and tiny details that bring each photo to life.
Zoe Fisher: That’s so fun! How do you approach those story-driven portraits that really capture the spirit of a baby’s first days?
Nikki Cee: It’s a mix of planning and personality. Sometimes I find a prop I love and think, I can’t wait to use this on my next baby. Other times, the parents bring ideas, like representing a sorority, fraternity, profession, or hobby. I’ve done themes for bakers, artists, even a mini Beyoncé tour outfit. I work with seamstresses who specialize in newborn sizes, because everything has to be safe, soft, and perfectly fitted. When people see those tiny handmade outfits, a varsity jacket or a mini tutu, they’re amazed. It makes each photo unique and deeply personal.
Zoe Fisher: That’s incredible. And there are so many talented photographers out there, especially for newborns. What do you think sets NCee Photography apart from others in your field?
Nikki Cee: The vibe, for sure. I genuinely love kids and have worked with them my whole life, so they’re comfortable with me right away, and that puts parents at ease too. I’m also very knowledgeable about newborn safety. It’s not just about the cute photo; it’s about making sure the baby is safe and supported. If something isn’t safe or appropriate for their age, I’ll say no and offer an alternative. I’m transparent, creative, and deeply invested in giving families a stress-free experience. Plus, being local to the DMV really helps build trust and community.
Zoe Fisher: That makes total sense. When the kids are relaxed, the parents can relax too.
Nikki Cee: Exactly! Half the time, I don’t even give the baby back until the end of the shoot, unless they need to nurse or are super fussy. I change them, soothe them, everything. Parents always joke like, do you do overnights? The experience is part of what makes it special. Even before I had my own kids, people called me the baby whisperer. I’ve always just had a way with them.
Zoe Fisher: That’s such a gift. And I love how adaptable you are, you mentioned offering parents alternative options when things don’t go as planned. That flexibility is so important for small business owners.
Nikki Cee: Definitely. Every baby’s story is different. Some parents have been waiting years for that moment, and I want to honor it. If something doesn’t work, we adjust. We still capture the emotion, the love, the meaning behind it. My goal is for everyone to leave happy.
Zoe Fisher: I love that. What are some major milestones you’ve hit in your business?
Nikki Cee: Oh my gosh, it’s been such a ride. I’ve been featured on local news networks, national media, and even internationally. A few years back, Viola Davis posted one of my photos on her Instagram. I thought it was a prank at first, but it was real! After that, People Magazine and The Today Show reached out, and it all just blew up from there. I’ve also won local Photographer of the Year awards. It’s been amazing.
Zoe Fisher: That’s incredible. You’ve had so many big moments!
Nikki Cee: It’s been a blessing. I’ve been flown to Atlanta first class for shoots, and even to Dubai and Egypt for family portraits and weddings. Honestly, it’s beyond what I ever imagined. I’m so grateful.
Zoe Fisher: That’s amazing. How did it all begin?
Nikki Cee: Ironically, I didn’t even like taking baby pictures at first! My first newborn session was chaos, crying, bottles, everything. I thought, nope, not for me. But then I started finding cute little props and thought, let me try again. I watched YouTube tutorials and challenged myself to get that perfect shot. It became a personal mission. Once I figured it out, I was hooked. Then I started designing my own props, finding unique items, and it just took off.
Zoe Fisher: That’s such a great example of perseverance, turning frustration into passion.
Nikki Cee: Exactly! I went from thinking I can’t do this to let me show you I can. That mindset changed everything.
Zoe Fisher: What are some of the struggles you’re facing right now?
Nikki Cee: Honestly, balance. I have twins, and motherhood is a whole new world. Postpartum life, running a business, keeping two babies fed, happy, and dressed, it’s a lot. They’re nine months old now, and I’m finally starting to feel like myself again. The hardest part is juggling being a mom and being a business owner. I’m still learning how to give both the attention they deserve and still find time for me.
Zoe Fisher: That’s such an honest answer, and I’m sure a lot of moms listening can relate. You’re doing an amazing job.
Nikki Cee: Thank you. It’s definitely a journey. Every day looks different, and I just take it one baby step at a time.
Zoe Fisher: Let’s talk about print. How do you use print in your business?
Nikki Cee: I love print. When Viola Davis shared my photo, that’s actually how I found PrintingCenterUSA. I’d been searching everywhere, totally overwhelmed, until someone recommended you. I ordered my first prints and have been printing ever since. Then life happened, my dad passed away, I got pregnant, and things slowed down. But this year, I’m planning to start printing again. When PrintingCenterUSA called to check in, I was genuinely touched. I thought, who calls to check on me from a company? It really made me feel seen and supported.
“Babies are moody and unpredictable, but they’re also magical.” Nikki Cee
Zoe Fisher: We love that so much, and we love your prints! Especially the one with the purple cover. It’s stunning.
Nikki Cee: Thank you! That one’s so special to me. Every photo in it tells a story.
Zoe Fisher: If you could give advice to another newborn photographer just starting out, what would you tell them?
Nikki Cee: Keep going. Babies are moody and unpredictable, but they’re also magical. They brighten everyone’s day. It’s not easy, honestly, it never will be, but if you love it, stay patient, and keep learning, amazing things will happen. You might just find yourself flying first class to Atlanta too!
Zoe Fisher: I love that. So, if you had one completely free day to spend however you wanted, what would you do?
Nikki Cee: Easy. I’d be at the spa in Mexico. Then at the pool in Mexico. Then on the beach in Mexico.
Zoe Fisher: That sounds like heaven.
Nikki Cee: Before I had kids, that was my go-to move. Life got tough, and I’d just say, you know what, I’m going to Mexico. Now I might have to make Mexico come to me, but one day, I’ll get back there.
Zoe Fisher: I hope so! For our listeners who want to follow your work, collaborate, or book a shoot, where’s the best place to find you?
Nikki Cee: You can find me everywhere; website, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, all at NCee Photography. Come say hi! You’ll definitely find something that makes you smile.
Zoe Fisher: Perfect. And for anyone listening, definitely check out Nikki’s work. Her photos truly tell stories that last a lifetime. Nikki, thank you so much for joining us. You’ve shared so much heart and inspiration.
Nikki Cee: Thank you so much for having me. I really appreciate it.
Zoe Fisher: That’s a wrap on another episode of Behind The Print Podcast. Remember, having a strong creative vision, building the right strategy, and using tools like print to amplify your message can make your brand stand out. Until next time, keep those creative sparks flying, and remember, there’s always more to discover behind the print.
Where Emotion Meets Artistry
Through Nikki Cee’s journey, we’re reminded that creativity often begins in the most unexpected places. What started as frustration evolved into a thriving business that captures emotion, love, and family connection in its purest form. Her work shows how artistry and print can preserve the moments that matter most, turning fleeting expressions into forever memories. Whether you’re a small business owner building your brand, a designer crafting visual stories, or a parent documenting life’s milestones, Nikki’s story proves that when passion meets purpose, every image becomes a legacy. Start your legacy with us and create a calendar today!
