Do you remember the first time your newborn cried?
As the best newborn photographer Scottsdale, I’ve worked with so many new parents who find themselves overwhelmed by that very moment. And I’ve been there too—both as a mom and as a photographer holding a tiny baby during a quiet photography session when they suddenly burst into tears. It’s amazing how such a small sound can feel so big.
Every cry feels like a puzzle: Are they hungry? Tired? Uncomfortable? And as much as we wish babies came with a manual, they do come with cues—we just need to learn their language.
In this post, I’m sharing what I’ve learned both in the studio and from personal experience. You’ll discover:
- The different types of newborn cries and what they might mean
- Simple, effective ways to soothe your baby
- Tips for staying calm and confident as a new parent
The Language of Newborn Cries: What Is Your Baby Trying to Say?
Not all newborn cries are the same—and once you start listening closely, you’ll notice distinct patterns. Understanding these can take some of the stress out of those early days.
“I’m Hungry”
The classic hunger cry is low-pitched, rhythmic, and repetitive—often sounding like “wah wah wah.” You might also see:
- Rooting or turning toward the breast
- Sucking motions or lip smacking
- Hands moving to the mouth
- A “neh” sound, The sound “neh” is created when a baby’s tongue touches the roof of their mouth, which creates a sucking reflex. The sound is similar to a lamb bleating.
Hunger cries are some of the most common and usually come with clear physical cues. Responding quickly can help build trust and reduce stress—for both of you.
“I’m Sleepy”
The sleepy cry often sounds like “owh,” a soft exhale paired with a yawn. It’s a cue that your baby is ready to rest and might need help winding down.
“I’m in Pain”
Pain cries are sharper and more urgent. You’ll hear a high-pitched, piercing cry—often long, loud, and sudden. Sometimes it’s followed by a pause, like your baby is holding their breath. Trust your instincts; this cry can signal something that needs your attention right away.
“I’m Overstimulated”
A newborn’s overstimulated cry sounds similar to a tired cry, which is long and hard. The cry is usually not as loud as other cries and often staccato. Overstimulation can escalate to shrieking.
Other signs of overstimulation include:
● Avoiding eye contact
● Constant head turning
● Flailing arms and legs
● Turning their head away from you or other stimuli
● Batting angrily at objects
To soothe an overstimulated baby, you can try:
● Removing yourself from the environment
● Dimming the lights
● Rocking the baby
● Shushing
● Singing softly to them
A change of environment can work wonders here—more on that below.
“I’m Gassy or Uncomfortable”
Often accompanied by the baby pulling up their legs or arching their back. This cry can sound grunty or strained.
Tips for Calming a Crying Newborn
Once you start identifying different types of cries, you’ll feel more confident in knowing what your baby needs. Here are a few soothing techniques I’ve seen work time and again—both as a parent and during newborn photography sessions in my studio as the best newborn photographer Scottsdale:
Skin-to-Skin Contact
Holding your baby close provides comfort and reassurance. It also helps regulate their body temperature and heartbeat. Babies often find comfort in the familiar smell and warmth of their parents.
Shushing Sounds
Mimic the familiar white noise of the womb by softly whispering a steady “shhh” near your baby’s ear.
Rocking or Gentle Movement
Swaying, rocking, or gentle bouncing can calm your baby—just be sure to support their head and neck.
Pacifiers
Sucking is a natural soothing reflex. Once breastfeeding is well-established, a pacifier can offer relief during fussy moments.
Change the Scenery
Sometimes a darkened room, a walk outside, or a change of position can help reset your baby’s mood.
Soft Singing or Humming
Your voice is incredibly comforting. Singing a simple lullaby or humming a tune can work better than you might expect.
Personal tip: When my own baby wouldn’t settle, I’d hum one of the same tunes I’d sung during pregnancy. Something about that familiar sound always helped calm both of us.
A Note to New Parents: You’re Doing Better Than You Think
The truth is, learning your baby’s cries takes time. Every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. You’re not failing—you’re just learning your baby’s unique language.
When the cries feel overwhelming, take a breath. Step into another room for a moment if you need to. Your calm will help soothe your baby too.
If you’re a new parent in Scottsdale and want to preserve these early, emotional days in a meaningful way, I’d love to be your photographer. My studio is designed to be a peaceful, welcoming space where your whole family (yes, even the crying baby!) is embraced with patience and care.
Looking for the Best Newborn Photographer in Scottsdale?
Whether you’re preparing for your baby’s arrival or you’re already in the thick of the newborn stage, I’m here to help you capture the love, emotion, and connection that comes with this fleeting time.
Click here to view my newborn photography portfolio and learn more about booking your session.
Crying is one of the few ways your baby can communicate in those early days—and while it can feel overwhelming, you’re not alone in figuring it out. With patience, practice, and support, you’ll start to recognize what your baby needs and respond with confidence. For more helpful insights, check out this article from the Mayo Clinic about soothing a crying baby and this guide about decoding crying. And if you’re hoping to document these fleeting newborn days in a calm, supportive space, I’d love to welcome you into my Scottsdale studio.
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