12 TIPS FOR TERRIFIC NEWBORN PHOTOS

When you have a new baby and are a photography nut, it seems as if the universe has aligned in order to give you ample opportunity to take images of your little one. Now all you have to do is find the time and follow these few tips to get the most out of your photo session:

Warm room & white noise: The more comfortable your baby is, the longer your photography session will last, so make sure the room is nice and warm. White noise can also help if they are light sleepers.

Create a solid, neutral background: Either pose the baby in front of a blank wall, or hang a blanket to create a solid background that won’t distract from you little one.

Use a bean bag chair: These are popular with photographers and can be covered with a soft blanket to support baby and keep him warm. Alternatively you can use pillows or blankets to create a baby nest.

Solid colors: Blankets, costumes, and backgrounds should be neutral, solid colors that work with your baby’s skin tones (light blue, pink, beige, or white usually work best).

Natural light: If you can light your “set” with natural light (or lamps) this will save you from using flash, which can startle your baby.

Blankets: Solid, neutral-colored blankets can support baby, keep him warm, and serve as backdrops. If baby is restless you can get a spouse or friend to hold baby under the blankets.

Baskets, luggage, cradles, buckets, etc.: These serve as great props to put baby inside for fun and funky photos.

Hats, headbands, costumes: After you have a few curled-up baby shots you may want to add a hat or headband to give it some additional personality. Costumes are popular too – anything that you can put your baby in (such as large hats, bags, etc.) can work well.

Prime lens with wide aperture: If you have a DSLR camera it can pay to invest in a lens with a large aperture (such as a 50mm f/1.8 which runs about $100) as they give you sharp focus on your baby while blurring the surroundings.

Focus on the eyes: When you are composing your shot, ensure that the eyes (whether open or closed) are in focus.

Hands and feet: Don’t forget to get nice and close for gorgeous photos of your baby’s tiny hands and feet!!

Finally, newborn photography sessions work best after 6-10 days old. By 10 days old your baby likely has a routine established and is being fed well so they are sleeping longer. Have a few sessions if necessary, and keep practising until you get some gorgeous shots!