The first few moments spent with your newborn are magical. To cherish those moments forever people capture them in pictures. Some people capture these photos on their phones while others opt for newborn photography.
Newborn photography captures the innocence, smile, and delicate features of your baby in their early days. It is done by professionals who help you and the baby throughout your newborn’s photoshoot. Whether you are a photographer who’s enriching your portfolio with a new skill or a parent looking to prepare for their baby’s photoshoot, this guide has you covered.
Preparing for Newborn Photoshoot
Preparing for the photo session before time is key. It will help in keeping the baby content and cooperative throughout the session.
Here’s how to do it.
- Make sure the room is warm and comfortable for the baby.
- Have all the necessary props, such as blankets, hats, flowers and baskets, in place.
- Make sure the baby is not allergic to any of the props by discussing it with the parent beforehand.
- Keep the photo session relaxed and flexible, allowing the mother and the baby to feed and cuddle as needed.
Health and Safety First
When photographing a newborn baby, safety comes first. It is important to prioritize the baby’s health, safety, and comfort over any pose or shot.
- When the baby is hungry, give them time to feed and burp.
- Use safe and supportive props that won’t harm the baby in any way.
- Never leave the baby unattended during the session.
- If you’re not confident in a particular pose, just skip it.
- If the baby cries or needs anything, give them to the parent and let them handle the baby. Give them time to calm down.
It is crucial to note that babies are delicate and need to be held carefully. A skilled photographer can capture beautiful images without compromising the baby’s safety.
Go For Simple Clothing
Parents and siblings should opt for neutral, soft colors like black, white, beige, or pastels. Avoid bold patterns and prints to keep the focus on the baby.
Dress the newborn in simple outfits like a onesie or swaddles. Even just a diaper would be perfect. Soft and comfortable fabrics like cotton or muslin are ideal for the baby’s comfort.
Choose the Right and Comfortable Poses
When it comes to newborn photography, it is best to keep it simple. You just want to capture their innocence and delicacy during the early days, so there is no need to go overboard.
That said, some of the most popular poses include the following ones:
The “taco” pose
The pose where the baby’s legs are tucked under them
The “froggy” pose
This is the pose where the baby’s hands are placed under their chin.
Keep it natural
Natural, unposed shots, such as the baby sleeping peacefully or being held by their parents, can also deliver stunning end results.
Lighting and Angles Matter
Natural light is your best friend in newborn photography. Soft, diffused light creates gentle shadows and highlights the baby’s features beautifully. Position the baby near a window, but avoid direct sunlight, which can be harsh and uncomfortable.
Additionally, you can experiment with different angles, but in most cases, photographing from above or at a slight angle will give you the most flattering pictures.
Editing and Post-Processing
Editing is the final step in creating beautiful newborn photos. Images are enhanced with the help of editing software, but the enhancements should be kept minimal and natural. Adjust the brightness, contrast and colors to bring out the best in each photo. Avoid over-editing, which can make the images look unnatural. Remember, the goal is to bring out the baby’s natural beauty, not to alter it.
The Right Time for Your Newborn’s Photoshoot
Timing is everything when it comes to newborn photography!
The ideal time to photograph your newborn is within the first two weeks of birth, typically between 5 to 14 days old. During this period, babies are usually more sleepy and easier to handle. Which, in turn, allows for those adorable and curled-up poses that parents admire.
Since they are sleeping most of the time they are less likely to be disturbed by the camera, resulting in calm and serene photos.
FAQs
1. When is the best time to schedule a newborn photoshoot?
The best time to schedule a photoshoot is within the first two weeks of birth, say between 5 to 14 days old.
2. What to wear for a newborn photoshoot:
Parents and Siblings:
Opt for neutral, soft colors like white, beige, or pastels to keep the focus on the baby. Avoid bold patterns and logos to maintain a timeless feel.
For the Newborn:
Simple outfits like a white onesie, swaddles, or even just a diaper can be perfect. Soft fabrics like cotton or muslin are ideal for the baby’s comfort.
Similar to the other forms of photography, newborn photography is also an art. This particular art, however, requires a lot of patience, skill and an eye for detail. For a photographer, you don’t just want to capture the baby but also the family’s love. The most important thing is to enjoy the whole process and capture those adorable shots that will be remembered forever.
