Ever dreamed of snapping your newborn’s sleepy curls for your cute baby’s first year album but felt stuck with no time to scratch yourself or a messy home? I’ve been there—newbie days, dodging clutter, stressing over shots that didn’t have that pro clean cut look. After 10+ years, hundreds of bubs, and workshops with world-class pros, I’ve got quick setup hacks below (what those workshops missed!) to create a cozy vibe, no fancy gear needed! These work for mums, beginners, and pros—phone or DSLR, at home or studio. There’s also my free 30-min masterclass that will have you shooting baby photos like a pro in less than 30 minutes!
Why Cozy Setups Win Hearts
Cozy setups create heart-melting photos, light up your frame, and fill albums. These hacks deliver:
- Fast: 5 minutes to set up—no hours fussing.
- Easy: Just a blanket and a corner—no pro props!
- Wow: Stunning shots—mums cherish memories, pros land bookings!
Others might push pricey backdrops or perfect spaces—nah, my way’s simple, calm, and nails it. Let’s create that cozy newborn setup!
1. Pick a Soft Window Spot
Struggle: Flat or harsh light ruins photos.
Fix: Set up near a window (9–10:30am, when bubs are calm) with soft light. Drape a sheer curtain ($5 op shop find) to diffuse rays. Place some soft cushions or a soft ottoman on the floor and lay a neutral blanket (or use several to create textured layers!) over them for a cozy base. Try my free 30-min masterclass for quick setup tips that make a big impact.
Tip: Face bub away from direct sun—keeps skin flawless!
2. Swaddle on a Cushy Surface
Struggle: Hard floors unsettle bub.
Fix: Layer an earthy or neutral toned wrap ($5 Kmart scarves work too!) over a folded towel or beanbag for a cushy, cozy spot. Swaddle bub tightly to keep them content, capturing tiny hands and fingers peeking out. My $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course builds confidence to soothe even the fussiest of babies for the perfect peaceful shots!
Tip: Use cream, beige or earthy tones —mums swoon, keeps it timeless!
3. Add a fluffy rug
Struggle: Setups look too plain.
Fix: Lay a fluffy rug or blanket (neutral color works best to not distract attention away from bubs) as the base to lay on. Wrap a scarf or swaddle around bub to keep bub feeling safe and secure and make sure the wrap compliments the fluffy blanket’s tones. Keep it minimal for that pro clean cut look. Try laying a sibling down with baby (pic below) with a parent very close by to ensure bubs safety from accidental pushes, grabs etc from sibling. Edit with my $27 Mobile Presets for vibrant pops.
Tip: Tuck throw edges under—hides mess fast!
4. The Pro Secret – The Cozy Lock (Tease!)
Struggle: Setups feel cold or chaotic.
Fix: Here’s my trick: soft windows, cushy swaddles, and simple touches create stunning shots in minutes—it doesn’t have to be long or complicated! My free masterclass will have you mastering styling, posing, and calming, inspired by Sheyne Rowley The Australian Baby Whisperer—check our incredible interview with Sheyne here!
Tip: Want more? My masterclass nails setups in 30 mins—click below!
Level Up with My Free Masterclass!
These hacks are your setup starters, but want pro-level secrets to dazzle family or clients? My free masterclass for at-home or professional shots covers:
- Posing hacks—cute curls, safe and simple.
- Lighting hacks—no gear, just glow.
- Baby-calming moves—peaceful shots every time.
It’s 30 minutes to stunning pics—phone or DSLR—mums save memories, pros get happy customers! Join the free video here —you’ll be so glad you did! Imagine—in 30 minutes, you’ll know what you need to take beautiful baby photos + 12 months and beyond!
My $179 course (reg. $359, worth $579) covers 0-12 months, tricky toddlers, messy homes, and more—get the full course here but see the masterclass first for our one-time offer or you’ll pay full price. With styling, posing, lighting, calming, and sleep tips from The Gentle Sleep Specialist Tara for bub’s first 3 months of life—right when you need those tips the most! Or snag my $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course for the best calming tricks that actually work at be-a-baby-whisperer!
