Ever struggled to get that soft, dreamy glow in your newborn photos, worried about harsh shadows or needing pricey gear? I’ve been there—newbie days, flat pics, panicking over dull shots. After 10+ years, hundreds of bubs, and workshops with world-class pros, I’ve got super easy lighting tips (what those workshops missed!) for stunning photos fast. These hacks work for beginners, pros, and mums starting small—whether shooting at home or in a studio! My free 30-min masterclass video for at-home or professional shots will have you shooting like a pro in less than 30 mins!
Why Perfect Lighting Wins Clients
Gorgeous lighting creates professional clean cut looking photos, thrills clients, and fills your calendar. These hacks deliver:
- Fast: 5 minutes to set up light—no endless tweaking.
- Easy: Just a window or cloth—no fancy gear needed!
- Wow: Stunning shots—mums save memories, pros get happy customers!
Others might say you need studio lights or years of practice—nah, my way’s simple and easily achievable, actionable, and nails it. Let’s light up those newborn sessions!
1. Use Window Light for a Soft Glow
Struggle: Harsh shadows ruin your shots.
Fix: Position the newborn near a window for soft, natural light—like a warm hug from the sun. Face bub away from direct rays to avoid glare. Swaddle tightly to keep them calm during setup.
Tip: Shoot on cloudy days—nature’s perfect diffuser!

2. Bounce Light with a White Cloth
Struggle: Flat pics lack depth.
Fix: Hang a white sheet or cloth opposite the window to bounce light onto bub’s face, filling shadows for a glowing look. Adjust the cloth’s angle for a subtle sparkle in their eyes. Try bouncing light to turn dull shots into client favorites!
Tip: Use a clean white bedsheet—budget-friendly and effective!
3. Create a Cozy Spotlight with a Lamp
Struggle: No natural light for evening shoots.
Fix: Place a table lamp (soft bulb, no harsh LEDs) at a 45-degree angle to bub, about 2 meters away, for a cozy spotlight effect. Drape a white sheet over the lampshade to diffuse light, mimicking a pro studio glow. My $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course ensures bubs stay settled during light tweaks.
Tip: Test the lamp’s distance—too close, and it’s too bright!
4. The Pro Secret – The Light Lock (Tease!)
Struggle: Dull lighting kills your session vibe.
Fix: Here’s my trick: window light, bouncing light to bring up the shadows and shooting in the shadows – avoid the sun’s harsh direct rays!
Tip: Want more? My free masterclass will have you shooting like a pro in 30 mins—click below!

Level Up with My Free Masterclass!
These hacks are your lighting starters, but want pro-level secrets to wow 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 newborn photos + 12 months and beyond!
My $179 course (reg. $359, worth $579) covers 0-12 months, tricky toddlers, messy homes, and more—with lighting, posing, calming, and sleep tips from The Gentle Sleep Specialist Tara for the first 3 months of your baby’s schedule. Or snag my $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course for calming basics or $27 Mobile Presets for pro edits in the Lightroom App—work right from your phone!