HOW TO TAKE YOUR OWN NEWBORN PHOTOS
Snapping Your Way to Stunning: A Guide to Taking Your Own Newborn Photographs at Home that Look like Professional Photos.
Are you a new parent dying to capture the precious moments of your newborn’s first days, but unwilling to shell out the big bucks for a professional photographer? Worry not, dear friends, as I’m here to teach you the tips, tricks, and camera hacks you need to know to take stunning newborn photographs at home. Running a newborn photography studio, over the years I have learned how to simplify the process along the way. With a little bit of prep work, a lot of creativity, and some basic photography skills, you’ll be snapping your way to Instagrammable heaven in no time. Newborn photos are best taken in the first couple of weeks after birth, so let’s get started!
Get the Lighting Right
Lighting is everything in photography, and natural light is the easiest and most flattering source for newborn portraits. Set up a comfy spot near a big window but make sure your baby is not in direct sunlight. Remember, bright sunlight is too harsh and can cause your baby to squint. Instead, aim for the soft, diffused light of a cloudy day or utilise sheer window curtains to soften the light. Position your baby at a 45-degree angle to the window and avoid using flash or artificial light sources whenever possible.
Create a Cosy Environment
Your baby’s comfort and safety are your top priorities while taking their photos. Soft blankets, swaddles, and wraps are all great options for creating a cosy and comfortable environment for your baby. Choose a neutral-coloured blanket or a textured rug for contrast, which makes your baby stand out. Are there any family heirlooms you would like to include? Newborn session is the perfect place for those and they will make your shoot even more personal to you. Consider adding in small props, like stuffed animals or hats if you wish, but make sure they don’t outshine your baby. Last but not least, make sure your baby is not placed high off the ground. You don’t want to risk them falling off a chair, sofa or even a larger pillow. They may look sleepy one minute and startle the next. Always make sure their immediate area is safe and secure.
Keep It Simple
Newborn photographs look best when you keep it simple. Your goal should be to focus on your baby and their little features, like their toes, fingers, and cheeks. Do close-ups of their face, hands, and feet. Hold the camera at eye level, and let your baby look at the camera naturally (if their eyes are open). Use the macro feature of your camera or blurry the background in portrait mode to help your baby stand out. Remember not to over-edit your photos; let your baby’s natural beauty shine through.
Timing is Everything
Babies have their own schedule, and you want to capture those precious moments when they’re sleeping, content, or exploring their world. Plan a time of day when your baby is most relaxed, usually after a feed or nap. Use the few moments when they’re asleep or in a good mood to snap away. Remember patience is key, newborns need time to feed, sleep, and comfort themselves. If you are set to capture their eyes gazing at the camera, just remember they cannot distinguish features in the first few weeks after birth, so any “gazing” is purely potluck, so be patient.
Post-Processing Your Photos
Once you’ve finished taking your photos, it’s time to edit them. Basic photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop Express can help you with the colour balance, exposure and contrast of your photos. Remember to keep it true to life and not overdo the editing. Keep it natural and showcase your baby’s features. Once you have completed your editing, you can print or share them with family and friends.
Capturing your newborn’s first moments is precious. By following some basic tips and tricks, you can take professional-looking photos with your favourite little one. Remember to experiment with different poses, lighting, and angles and to keep it simple. With a little bit of creativity and some patience, you can capture unforgettable moments that will last for a lifetime.
Feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to start? Let us take care of your newborn photos, whilst you sit back and relax in the comfort of our studio. Get in touch to see what we can do for you and your family!
Book Your Newborn Photoshoot with Us!
Hi, I’m Reka, the photographer behind HelloBABY Photography.
If you have any questions about our photoshoots get in touch via email on contact@hellobaby.com.au or visit our NEWBORN PAGE.
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