How to take your own newborn photos with ANY camera
Step 1: LIGHTING
Take a couple of days to observe the light in your home. Which room lets in the most light? what is the best time of day? You want nice even light (no harsh shadows). Turn off all the lights and open the curtains/blinds. If your windows are letting in splotchy light you can hang a plain white shower curtain to act as a diffuser. Try to position your baby’s head at a 45 degree angle from your light source (a.k.a. window).
Step 2: SAFETY
I am sure this goes without saying but always think of your baby’s safety over getting the perfect image. Many difficult poses you see online are composite images (2 or more photos blended together). These types of poses should not be performed without newborn posing experience and training.
Step 3: LISTEN TO YOUR BABY
Keep your little one happy. Turn up the heat. Use a white noise machine or an app on your phone. Make sure your little one is sleepy and has a full belly before you start posing. Don’t rush! You have plenty of time. If you are having trouble settling your baby just try again later. Even the best photographers occasionally need to reschedule a session.
Step 4: POSING & PROPS
KEEP IT SIMPLE!! Lay your baby on a neutral blanket. You can use a hand towel or receiving blanket underneath to help prop up your baby’s head. Start with a simple side laying or belly pose. Then add in a hat or headband. Photographers use knit wraps but you can use a plain scarf or a swaddle. You can drape the scarf over your baby. You can swaddle your baby and place her in a wreath or him in a wicker basket.
Step 5: TAKE AN EXTRA SHOT
In this digital age you can take and store as many photos as you like. Move yourself before you move your baby. Change your angles and perspectives. Take photos from above and from the side. Sometimes a slight tilt of your camera or phone can change the look of your image.
Step 6: DETAILS
Don’t forget to get in close. Capture all the tiny toes and baby rolls. Snap a picture of the pouty lips and sweet eyelashes.
Take photos of your baby’s room. Photograph the details you put into their nursery. The teddy bear you bought before they were born. The custom name sign hanging above the crib. The mobile passed down for generations. Be sure to snap a photo of your babe in their crib.
Step 7: GET IN THE PHOTO
Give the camera to Dad and have him take a photo of you and your perfect little one. Breathe him/her in. Give all the kisses and snuggles. Today is the littlest they will ever be.
