5 Newborn Photography Tips Every Photographer Should Know
Newborn baby photographs are treasured keepsakes for many parents, helping them remember the beautiful experience of having a newborn child. As a photographer, it's your job to capture these fleeting moments. However, newborn photography can be complicated and requires a unique skill set.
There are certain nuances and challenges photographers need to be aware of when it comes to the art of newborn photography. As your tiny subject is prone to many movements and requires attentive care, it's good to have a plan for common challenges ahead of time.
To help, we've compiled five essential tips for taking newborn photos every photographer should know. From timing to safety to creative execution, these indispensable tips will elevate your newborn photography game.
Top 5 Tips for Newborn Photography You Should Know
Ready to take on the art of newborn photography? With some preparation, you can be a pro at creating beautiful keepsakes for new parents.
1. Take Newborn Pictures at the Right Time
The timing of a newborn photoshoot is crucial. Typically, scheduling the session within the first five to ten days after birth is optimal. During this period, babies are more likely to be sleepy and therefore easier to pose. Their delicate features are still fresh, capturing that fleeting newborn essence. As they grow older, they become more alert and less inclined to stay in those adorable, curled-up poses. Seizing the opportunity in those early days ensures the most tender, traditional baby photos.
2. Keep the Baby Safe and Comfortable
Ensuring the safety and comfort of the newborn is paramount, and the photographer has a crucial role in this process. Before commencing the shoot, it's essential to create a warm and cozy environment. Newborns are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, so maintaining a comfortably warm space with a space heater is an easy path to a happy baby. Additionally, props used during the shoot should be soft, clean, and non-toxic. Baby safety should always be the top priority, with newborn props and poses carefully selected to avoid any risk of harm or discomfort.
3. Use a Simple Background for Your Newborn Photo Session
While it's tempting to incorporate elaborate backdrops and props, simplicity often reigns supreme for newborn backdrops. A clean, uncluttered background ensures the focus remains on the baby's pure, adorable essence. Soft blankets, neutral colors, and minimalistic props can create timeless images highlighting the newborn's delicate features without distraction. So, remember, less is often more when it comes to newborn photography.
4. Plan Ahead of Time To Take Sleeping Baby Photos
Capturing images of a sleeping newborn can evoke a sense of tranquility and make the process much smoother. A sleepy baby is more likely to remain calm and cooperative during the shoot. This allows for those precious sleeping and cute poses we see in newborn pics. But achieving these quintessential newborn shots requires careful planning. Communicate with the parents before the shoot, advising them to keep the baby awake for a while before the session.
5. Understand the Best Angles and Light for Amazing Photos
Another tip for mastering newborn photography is understanding the best angles and lighting before entering your session. For lighting, soft, diffused natural light is ideal for highlighting the baby's features and creating soft shadows. Consider shooting from various angles to find the most flattering perspectives when positioning the baby. Experiment with different compositions, including ones with parents and their newborn(s). Take some test shots in your studio to get the lighting and camera settings down so you can focus on capturing time-sensitive newborn poses.
