Newborn Photography Tips and Tricks

Today we are featuring Newborn photography tips and tricks. These are some of the most perfect ideas to capture that sweet “newborn stage”. There certainly isn’t anything more precious than this stage with all its sweet little rolls, scrunchy little faces, and tiny wrinkles. Whether you are just starting out or an experienced photographer. You’ll be sure to find some fun ways to savor this exciting time through the art of newborn photography.

Newborn Photography Pose Ideas with Family :

One of the most special moments as a family is the addition of the newest family member. Some perfect shots for families can be taken on the bed all snuggled up together. Remember these pictures generally look best in a very well lit room. Make sure to check the room often throughout the day to see which time of day the lighting is best for that room.

Posed Vs. Lifestyle Newborn Photography

There are two different styles of newborn photography. One is Posed/studio newborns and the other is Lifestyle Newborn photography. I love both for different reasons. However, be sure that your client knows the difference. That way you know what their expectations are and there are no surprises for them during the photo session.

Lifestyle Newborn Sessions take the more journalistic approach to Newborn photography. The idea is to really capture a more natural look of your family. This is usually done in your home with the new baby and siblings. There may be some posing, but mostly the focus is to capture the beauty in the casual everyday things. For example when you are snuggling and taking care of your little one, feeding etc. Babies can generally be a bit older of these types of newborn sessions roughly around up to 8 weeks.

Studio Newborn Sessions are done in a newborn studio. The main focus is on the baby with possibly a few family shots at the end. These sessions the baby is generally under two weeks old. This helps it go more smoothly for the baby since they are still in that very sleepy and “moldable” stage. During these session you do several poses on a beanbag with headbands, hats, and little outfits to dress up the baby. Then, you transition the baby in props like buckets, pails, bowls, etc all the while trying keeping the baby asleep.

Prepare Your Client

The very best way to ensure that your session goes smoothly is to prepare your client. This helps Mommy and Daddy know exactly what to expect and what they need to bring, etc. I send each of my clients and newborn prep guide a few days prior to their session. This includes lots of tips for them I have learned over the year of how to prepare the baby for the most successful session.

Keep You Aperture In Mind

I know a lot of portrait and wedding photographers love to shoot wide open. Including myself, however newborn photography is totally different. Babies are positioned so many different angles that it isn’t often both eyes are on the same plane of focus. Which I like at times for some shots, however not for the whole session.

Planning and Props

One of my biggest mistakes when I first started is I would get out practically every prop I had. This would more often than not hurt more than it did help. I would get overwhelmed quickly and not know where to start. Now I have about 3-4 sets out. I preplan each outfit to coordinate with the props wraps etc. That way it’s all ready to shoot once my newborn is nice and sleepy. Of course make sure that what you plan is also coordinating with your clients wants and expectations.

Sibling Shots

Sibling shots can take a turn for the worst if you’re not prepared. I often ask parents to bring the siblings towards the end of the session if they are young. If thats not possibly a lot of times I will do sibling shots first. Toddlers just simply don’t have the attention span to wait a few hours and then pose perfectly with their new baby brother or sister.

Safety Is a Must

Sounds like a no brainer, but I see this a lot! Before you start working with newborns make sure to research newborn photography safety. Its also a good idea to get formal hands on training with a professional newborn photographer. Not only is this the best way to learn, they usually also will share all their newborn photography tips and tricks with you. Finally, be patient with yourself! Newborn photography takes a lot of practice and time to “nail it” (As they say on Pinterest haha). Good luck! If you have any questions for me about newborn photography tips and tricks leave a comment below and I’d be happy to help you out!