Newborn Photography Tips: A Helpful Guide To Get You Started.
Newborn photography is magical, and I’m so excited that you are reading this so you can learn more. Being a newborn photographer means you get to capture the innocence of a tiny little baby in the most fulfilling way you can imagine. The photographs you create for the parents, will allow them to cherish those moments forever. If you are a mom like me you understand how fast these moments pass us by, which is why I am so passionate about what we do.
Witnessing the Miracle
You are starting a journey as a newborn photographer in which you get to witness the miracle of a new life. You will get to capture every facial expression, every tiny little foot, the most beautiful eyelashes, and even those cute little gassy smiles. When I think back to when I first started newborn photography, I remember being so excited about detail shots, and today, literally nothing has changed. They are still my favorite shots.
Creating a Comforting Space
Before I give you tips on the technical aspects of newborn photography, it’s very important that you understand how to create a calming environment for you, the parents, and the newborn. Knowing you have the trust of the parents and of yourself will help you have a successful photoshoot. Patience, understanding, and a soft touch is incredibly important when it come to photographing newborns.
Understanding the Emotion
Newborns feel tension and unease from others. If you or the parents are tense and nervous about the session the newborn will pick up on that feeling and tense up as well. I cannot stress enough how important it is to build trust with the parents BEFORE you start the session. Take time to get to know the family, talk with them, explain how the newborn session will go. Doing those things will help the parents feel at ease and you will have a much smoother session.
Creating the perfect environment
When the newborn parents walk into your studio you want them to immediately feel comfortable. The way I do this is by turning the lights off and having only the window light flowing into the room, I make sure it is warm, so the baby is comfortable, and the parents feel cozy. I can’t tell you how many times a parent has fallen asleep during a newborn session, I welcome them too, because we all know having a newborn is tiring.
Learning How To Pose
Newborn photography is all about posing. If you get that down, you will have a much easier time during the session. Posing a newborn requires patience, empathy, and knowledge. It is important that the pose you are doing compliments the baby’s beauty and feels natural.
Capturing the Real Moments
In the world of newborn photography, it is so important to remember that you are capturing a tiny, little, human being. You want to make sure you capture them in a way that the parents will remember how little they once were. Newborn photography is about capturing the sweet moments such as, the tiny fingers that are wrapped around daddy’s thumb. Or the pure comfort they have in mom’s arms.
Learning the Technical Side
Now that we know how important it is to capture the emotional piece of newborn photography, we need to make sure we understand the technical side. From lighting to editing, each part plays a huge role in creating the timeless images you strive to give the parents.
Using Studio Light
Studio light is a newborn photographer’s biggest tool. Learn how to properly expose the newborn and you don’t have to worry about if it is cloudy outside or if the bright sun is shining through the window. Positioning the newborn and your light in the right spot is so important. Always remember to have the light at the top of the head and flowing across the newborns face. Shadows are important and they give your photo interest.
Perfecting Post-Processing
Post-processing can make or break your beautiful images. All you need to remember is that you already have a beautiful image if you have focused on everything above. Editing just enhances your photo, it helps you fine tune the exposure, skin tone, and you can get rid of that pesky baby acne and flakes. My biggest advice is to have restraint. Don’t go so crazy that it takes away from the beautiful image you already have.
Conclusion: Newborn Photography is Fulfilling
Newborn photography as you can see is more than just clicking a button, it becomes one of the most fulfilling things in your life. Seeing the parents’ faces after I have shown them their photos is worth it all. You get to capture the miracle of new life and give such an amazing gift to the families that will be passed down for generations.
Frequently asked
How soon should I schedule a newborn photoshoot after birth?
It’s recommended to schedule the photoshoot within the first two weeks after birth. Newborns are typically sleepier and more cooperative. However, every baby is different, so choose a time that works best for the family.
Do I need professional equipment for newborn photography?
While professional equipment can enhance the quality of your photographs, it’s not a necessity at first. With a good-quality camera and understanding of basic photography principles, you can capture stunning images of newborns.
Are there any safety precautions I should keep in mind during the photoshoot?
Safety should always be the top priority when photographing newborns. Avoid placing them in awkward positions that can block their airway or using unsafe props. Always have a spotter nearby to ensure the baby’s safety throughout the session.
How can I enhance my posing skills for newborn photography?
Practice, patience, and education are key to mastering posing techniques. Study poses from experienced photographers, experiment with different angles, and above all, prioritize the comfort and safety of the baby.
What should I do if the baby becomes fussy during the photoshoot?
Remain calm, patient, and try to identify the source of the baby’s discomfort. Address any immediate needs such as feeding or changing before attempting to resume the session. Remember, a calm and relaxed environment is essential for capturing beautiful moments.