Photography

How to Edit Newborn Photos for a Pro Look (No Fancy Software Needed!)

Hey there, tired legends, photo newbies, pro snappers, and parents craving perfect bub pics! Ever snapped a sweet newborn shot—those tiny toes or sleepy eyes—then groaned because the colors looked flat or the background was messy? I’ve been there—new mum days, fumbling my phone, thinking, “This needs polish!” After 10+ years, hundreds of bubs, and workshops with world-renowned photographers (where I had to hunt down editing tricks they skipped!), I’ve cracked the secrets to pro-looking edits. These hacks work for newborns, 1-12 month-olds, and even wiggly toddlers—whether you’re tweaking at home or booking me in-person! There’s a pro twist that has customers raving, and my free 30-min masterclass video will have you editing like a pro in less than 30 mins!

Why Editing Makes Photos Pop

A quick edit turns good shots into heart-melters—brighter skin, softer vibes, pure magic. These hacks deliver:

  • Fast: 2 mins to edit—no hours lost.
  • Easy: Just your phone—no pricey apps needed!
  • Wow: Stunning pics—mums save memories, pros get very happy customers!

Others might say you need Photoshop or tech skills—nah, my way’s simple, real, and nails it. Let’s polish those bub pics!

1. Brighten the Glow

Struggle: Dull shots hide bub’s cuteness.
Fix: Open your phone’s photo app (like Photos or Gallery). Slide the brightness up slightly—aim for natural glow, not overdone. For newborns, boost exposure to make skin pop; for 6-month-olds, tweak contrast to highlight chubby cheeks.
Tip: Don’t max it out—too bright looks fake and washes out eyes, especially in toddler shots!
Safety Tip: Editing’s safe, but when shooting, keep a hand nearby—bubs wiggle unexpectedly on soft surfaces.

2. Soften the Colors

Struggle: Harsh tones clash with bub’s vibe.
Fix: In your app, lower saturation a touch for dreamy pastels—perfect for newborn skin or toddler giggles. Try a free app like Snapseed if you want more control (no cost, no learning curve).
Tip: Warm up the temperature slightly—adds a cozy feel without turning bub orange!

3. Crop the Chaos

Struggle: Messy backgrounds steal focus.
Fix: Crop tight to frame tiny hands or sleepy lashes. For 12-month-olds, center their grin to cut distractions. Keep it simple—no need for fancy borders.
Tip: Use your app’s straighten tool if bub’s tilted—makes shots look pro instantly!

4. The Pro Secret – The Preset Pop (Tease!)

Struggle: Editing takes ages for one pic.
Fix: Here’s my trick: a one-tap preset to balance light and color, giving that studio glow fast. Clients will call you the editing wizard! My $27 Mobile Presets pack nails this magic—pro looks, no stress! Need bub calm for the shot first? My chat with Sheyne Rowley, the Australian Baby Whisperer, has calming gems—read it here!
Tip: Want more? My free masterclass will have you editing pro-style in 30 mins—click below!

Level Up with My Free Masterclass (or Book an In-Person Session!)

These hacks are your editing starters, but want pro-level secrets? Try My free masterclass for parents, beginners and even pro’s with our Pro hacks !

  • Simple poses anyone can achieve.
  • Baby-calming moves—peaceful shots, every single time.
  • Mastering natural light —pics that pop.

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 hooked!
Want more/ My $179 course (reg. $359, worth $579) covers 0-12 months, tricky toddlers, messy homes, and more—plus sleep tips from The Gentle Sleep Specialist Tara. Or snag my $27 Mobile Presets—pro edits in one tap—your pick!

Jess’s free newborn photography masterclass graphic – best-newborn-courses

My Editing Flops to Frame-Worthy Wins

I’m Jess—mum, Netflix binger, pork crackling addict. My first edits? Total flops—overbright faces, green and red-tinted bubs, mum-fail city! Now, after years of tweaking and building the JJP Method, I’ve got the hacks I wish I’d had back then. No big words, just real tips for every parent and pro secrets for the professionals!

Join my free masterclass here for DIY, or book an in-person session for studio shots. Ready for it all? My $179 course or $27 Mobile Presets has editing tricks to make every pic pop—pro skills, no splurge. Let’s polish those bub photos!

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    I'M JESS

     

    Mum, coffee ☕ chaser, and total pork crackling fanatic!

     

    Once upon a time, I was a newbie photographer, fumbling through fussy bub shoots 😅 and stressing over every missed shot. But after 10+ years, hundreds of newborns, and workshops with world-class pros, I’ve cracked the code to stunning photos that make hearts melt.

     

    My JJP Method is all about simple, real-deal hacks that work for mums, beginners, and pros alike—no fluff, just results!

     

    Want to nail newborn photography? Join my free 30-min masterclass for at-home or professional shots, or dive into my course to master posing, calming, lighting, and more in less time than your little one’s nap.

     

    Let’s capture those tiny moments together!

    Photography
    “Jess was absolutely amazing with our newborn son during the shoot. I felt so comfortable with the way she nurtured his needs and comforted him during the process. Plus the final product was amazing and there is lots of different packages you can choose from that suit your needs."
    ~ Jasmyn Bawden

    Ready to capture your story?

     

    get a reply within minutes!

    My availability is limited with family time being a priority, so booking a few months in advance is highly recommended, especially for newborns.

     

    I know you might feel nervous about getting photos—99% of my clients feel the same! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through every step, giving you prompts and directions so you can relax and just enjoy the moment. Life is hectic, but your session will be a chance to slow down and have fun!

    EXPLORE WITH ME

    I'm Jessica Van Den Berghe, a small-town

    Camperdown girl with big dreams.
    I'm hooked on Netflix, in-door plants, candles and crispy pork crackling with apple sauce.

    FOLLOW ME

    T.0439 932 229

    E. jessica@jessicajanephotography.com.au