Lighting for Newborn Photography: Striking the Balance between Artificial and Natural Light
Hiya, mums and new photographers—wherever you are! Want those adorable bub shots—sleepy grins, tiny toes—but stuck with dull, flat pics that hide the magic? I’ve been there—new mum chaos, fumbling light, no clue what worked. After 10+ years snapping 100s of bubs, I’ve cracked the lighting game—natural or artificial, it’s all about cute, safe snaps! My free masterclass spills the tricks in natural lighting —Let’s light it up, fun and easy!

In the above image: Pic Tip: South-facing windows (no direct sun) with sheer curtains = dreamy softness. Bright sun blasting in? Hang a white sheet—calms it down fast!
Natural Light: My Go-To for Mum Vibes
I’m hooked on natural light—here’s why it’s pure gold:
- Free and Ready: No cost—just a window or door, right there for you!
- Warm and Cozy: Soft glow hugs bub like a blanket—perfect for sleepy pics, keeps it chill for everyone.
- No Gear Hassle: Forget lugging softboxes—open space, relaxed shoot, total fun!
Tricky Bit: Weather can mess with you—cloudy days dull it, harsh sun throws shadows. Time it smart—golden hours or a south-facing window win!
Artificial Light: Not My Go To (But It Works!)
Some love artificial—here’s the scoop, though it’s not my style:
- Total Control: Softboxes (like Godox AD600 Pro) tweak light just right—gentle on bub, steady every shot.
- Anytime Snaps: Sun’s gone? No sweat—shoot whenever, great for newborn chaos.
- Studio Fit: Indoors, no weather stress—consistent pics, no window chase.
Why I Skip It: Gear’s invasive—stands, cords, clutter—and I’d rather keep it cozy than haul extras. Still, it’s an option if natural’s not enough!
Gear Note: Godox AD600 Pro with a softbox—portable, affordable, soft light—if you’re into that!
Why I Stick to Natural: Cozy Wins!
Natural light’s my thing—no heavy gear, just a warm vibe that settles bubs and mums. No equipment invading your space and creating artificial not cosy vibes. I’ve got hacks—safe handling, calming fast—so light’s a breeze. Want in? My free 30 min masterclass shows you my way.
Level Up with My Free Masterclass (and More!)
Lighting’s step one—want the full kit? My free masterclass gives you:
- Light tricks—natural glow, no gear, just wow.
- Baby-whispering moves—calm ‘em quick for perfect shots (safe handling’s a must!).
- Easy poses—cute pics, no fuss.
- It’s 30 mins to pro pics, phone or DSLR—mums save memories, beginners start strong!
- Join Our Free Masterclass here to start your learning and improve your photography NOW!
Love it? My $179 course (reg. $359, worth $579) has it all—0–12 months, messy homes, Canon DSLR manual mode, and Tara’s sleep tips (from The Gentle Sleep Specialist) for bub’s first 3 months. One and done—cute pics or a fun new income stream, your pick!
Me, Jess: From Light Mess to Natural Pro

I’m Jess Van Den Berghe—Australian mum, Netflix binger, pork crackling addict. My first bub pics? Disaster—dark, flat, tears everywhere! Ten years on—workshops, 100s of bubs, my own studio—I’ve cracked it with natural light. My JJP Method’s yours—mums and beginners/Pros worldwide!