Capturing the fleeting moments of your newborn’s early days is a cherished tradition for many parents. While professional newborn photography is popular, you don’t always need to hire a photographer to get beautiful baby pictures. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can create heartwarming and timeless memories right in the comfort of your own home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to achieve stunning newborn photographs that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
How to do your own baby photoshoot at home?
Setting up a home photoshoot for your newborn is easier than you might think. First, find a well-lit area in your home, ideally near a large window that allows soft, natural light to stream in. Natural light creates a gentle and flattering glow, making your baby’s features look more delicate and adorable.
Next, gather some simple props like blankets, baskets, or soft fabrics that complement your baby’s delicate features. A beanbag or a soft surface will be useful for posing your little one comfortably.
Ensuring your baby stays settled is crucial for a successful DIY newborn photoshoot at home. With these easy newborn photography tips for beginners, you can achieve fantastic results!
What camera settings are best for newborn photography?
Having the right camera settings is crucial for capturing those picture-perfect moments. If you’re not used to shooting in manual mode, set your camera to Aperture Priority mode (A or Av mode), and select a wide aperture (low f-stop like f/2.8 or f/3.5) to achieve a shallow depth of field. This will help blur the background, keeping the focus on your baby’s adorable face.
Use a low ISO setting to reduce noise and maintain image clarity. Additionally, ensure a fast shutter speed to freeze any sudden movements and prevent blurry shots. For more detailed setting see The Best Camera Settings for Newborn Photography.
What angle is best for newborn photos?
The best angle for newborn photography is from slightly above your baby’s eye level. This angle allows you to capture their sweet expressions without distorting their facial features. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to find the most flattering shots. A great tip is to ask yourself “can I see up baby’s nostrils?” If so, you are shooting at too low of an angle and need to move up higher.
What is the best timeframe to take newborn photos?
Timing plays a vital role in newborn photography, and the optimal timeframe for capturing those precious moments is within the first two weeks after birth. During this period, babies tend to sleep deeply and curl up naturally, making it easier to pose them for those adorable shots.
Even if your baby is older than two weeks, don’t worry! You can still capture incredibly gorgeous photos. However, be prepared for longer awake periods and less ease in settling them to sleep. In fact, I know not all photographers do this, but I’ve held newborn shoots that were up to 8 weeks of age – especially during Covid when there was not other option to hold the session earlier.
In this guide, we’ll delve into detail about “The Best Time to do Newborn Photography,” ensuring you can make the most of your baby’s unique stage to create timeless and heart-warming images.
How do I prepare my baby for newborn pictures?
- Choose the Right Time: Schedule the photoshoot during a time when your newborn is usually at their calmest and sleepiest. Newborns tend to be more cooperative and easier to pose after a feeding and during their naptime. I find the first nap of the day tends to be the best time. I hold my newborn sessions at 9.30am.
- Swaddling/Wrapping: Swaddling or wrapping your baby in a soft and comfortable blanket can help them feel secure and cozy during the photoshoot. This technique can also make it easier to pose your baby and achieve those adorable curled-up positions.
- White Noise: White noise, like the sound of a gentle fan or a noise machine, can mimic the comforting sounds your baby was used to in the womb. The gentle humming can help soothe your baby and lull them into a more peaceful and relaxed state, making it easier to capture those serene moments.
- Feeding and Burping: Make sure your baby is well-fed and has burped before the photoshoot. A full tummy can make your baby feel more content and sleepy, making them more cooperative during the session.
- Pacifier/Dummy: A pacifier or dummy can be useful for comforting your baby if they become a bit fussy during the photoshoot. It can help soothe them between poses and keep them calm.
- Keep the Room Warm: Newborns are used to being in a warm environment, and a toasty room can help keep them comfortable and sleepy. Set the room temperature to around 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit) to prevent your baby from getting cold during the photoshoot. However, ensure the temperature is safe and comfortable for everyone involved, including the photographer.
- Patience and Flexibility: Newborn photoshoots can take time, and babies don’t always follow a strict schedule. Be patient and prepared to take breaks if your baby needs to be soothed or fed during the session. A calm and relaxed atmosphere is key to capturing those heartwarming moments.
What colour should I wear for newborn photos?
When planning what to wear for the photoshoot, opt for neutral and soft colors. Creams, pastels, and light earthy tones work best as they won’t distract from your baby’s precious features. Solid colors are preferable to busy patterns, as they can be visually overpowering in the photographs.
Is 2 weeks too old for newborn photos?
While it’s best to capture newborn photos within the first two weeks, 2 weeks old is not too late for a baby photoshoot. Though older babies might be more awake and alert, they can still be posed in sweet and endearing ways. Be patient and prepared for the possibility of less sleepy shots, and embrace their unique expressions and personalities.
Is Newborn Photography Hard?
Newborn photography presents unique challenges as we work with unpredictable little subjects. Babies have their own schedules and moods, making it tough to plan and execute poses seamlessly. Patience is crucial, as achieving those adorable, curled-up positions takes time and a calm environment. Simple poses can be more achievable for beginners, but if trying more complicated ones, photographers need proper training to ensure the baby’s comfort and safety.
Optimize your newborn photography by prioritizing the baby’s comfort. Many amateurs overlook this essential step. When done correctly, a happy and settled newborn will make the session enjoyable. Ensure your little one’s needs are met for a successful photoshoot.
Conclusion:
Newborn photography at home allows you to freeze those precious moments without leaving the comfort of your own space. By following these tips, you can create a memorable and heartwarming baby photoshoot that perfectly captures the beauty and innocence of your little one. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep clicking and cherishing these fleeting moments for a lifetime. Happy photographing!
Meet Jess, a passionate newborn photographer based in country Victoria, Australia. Having experienced the challenges of learning photography while caring for a newborn herself, Jess empathizes with overwhelmed parents.
Driven by a desire to help, Jess now offers offers online training programs for parents and photographers alike. Learn quick and easy techniques to capture stunning photos of settled and sleepy newborns effortlessly.
Whether you’re a parent wanting to document your newborn’s precious moments or a photographer seeking to enhance your skills, Jess is here to guide you on this beautiful journey.
Join Jess’s offers online training programs and discover the joy of capturing timeless moments that will be cherished forever.