Photography

How to Pose Newborns Safely for Stunning Photos

Struggling to pose your newborn for gorgeous photos without stressing about safety? I’ve been there—new mum days, fumbling with my bub, heart racing to get that perfect shot while keeping them snug. After 10+ years, hundreds of bubs, and workshops with world-renowned photographers (where I had to chase down posing tricks they skipped!), I’ve cracked the secrets to safe, stunning newborn poses. These hacks work for newborns, 1-12 month-olds, and even wiggly toddlers. My free 30-min masterclass video will have you posing like a pro in less than 30 mins!

Why Safe Posing Creates Heart-Melters

Safe poses highlight bub’s tiny features—curled toes, sleepy smiles—for pics that fill your first year album with magic. These hacks deliver:

  • Fast: 2 mins to pose—no endless fussing.
  • Easy: Just a blanket—no fancy props needed!
  • Wow: Stunning shots—mums save memories, pros get happy customers!

Others might say you need complex setups or risky poses—nah, my way’s safe, simple, and nails it. Let’s pose that bub perfectly and without the worry of them being uncomfortable!

1. Start with a Swaddle

Struggle: Wiggly bubs make posing tricky.
Fix: Swaddle newborns for a snug, safe base (demo here). Lay them on a soft blanket near a window, parent nearby. For 8-week-olds, loosen the swaddle for gentle arm curls. Keep toddlers close, holding a toy, or leaning/standing up against a footrest – parent supervising (like in the pic below!).
Tip: Use a neutral blanket for a timeless look!
Safety Tip: Never leave bub unattended—adult’s hand always ready, super safe!

2. Try Tummy-Down Poses

Struggle: Unsafe poses stress everyone.
Fix: Place newborns tummy-down on a rolled blanket, head resting naturally, parent holding. For 6-month-olds, prop them slightly for a cheeky grin, parent nearby. Avoid forcing head turns—let bub lead.
Tip: Add a small pillow under the blanket for extra support and cuteness!

baby tummy time photos

3. Keep It Natural

Struggle: Stiff poses look forced.
Fix: Let newborns curl naturally—think fetal position. For 12-month-olds with siblings, capture them lying side-by-side, parent close. Shoot post-feed for calm vibes, using white noise if needed.
Tip: Use burst mode to catch candid moments like a yawn or giggle!

newborn and sibling pose photography

4. The Pro Secret – The Safety Lock (Tease!)

Struggle: Safety fears kill the shoot vibe.
Fix: Here’s my trick: a 3-step check—swaddle, soft surface, parent’s hand—ensures safe poses every time. Pair with a calm bub—my $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course shares calming magic, inspired by my chat with Sheyne Rowley, the Australian Baby Whisperer—read it here—and my 10+ years settling every bub I’ve shot! There’s never a baby I couldn’t settle!
Tip: Want more? My free masterclass will have you posing like a pro in 30 mins—click here!

Level Up with My Free Masterclass

These hacks are your posing starters, but want pro-level secrets for shooting? My free masterclass for at-home or pro-studio 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!
My $179 course (reg. $359, worth $579) covers 0-12 months, tricky toddlers, messy homes, and more—baby sleep tips from The Gentle Sleep Specialist Tara for the first 3mths, pure gold for new parents! Or snag my $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course—pro calming skills that work!

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

My Posing Flops to Frame-Worthy Wins

I’m Jess—mum, Netflix binger, pork crackling addict. My first posing attempts? Total bloody mess—wiggly bubs, unsafe setups, and me panicking over why my shots looked so awkward! 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! Let’s pose those perfect newborn 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