8 Tips For A Successful Newborn Photography Session

Newborn photography session tips.

Newborn photography can be rewarding, but also quite challenging. Babies can be totally unpredictable, and are not old enough to take directions. Planning is essential to having a successful newborn session.

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• Safety First – This is the most important tip for a newborn photography session. Safety is priority over anything else. Don’t put babies in dangerous props or poses. Newborn babies are very fragile, and can’t yet hold their head up or stop themselves from falling. Getting the perfect shot or pose is never worth endangering a child.
• Timing is Everything – Photograph newborns before they are two weeks old. Babies are still sleeping a lot, and it’s much easier to get adorable sleepy shots at this age. They are less active, and easier to pose.
• Location – A lot of parents prefer to have their newborn photographed at home, rather than in a studio. Everything they need for the baby is already there, and it can be more comfortable for them. The disadvantage is that you have to bring all your equipment, and props with you. You definitely need to allow more time when shooting outside your studio. Also, make sure there is adequate space where you will be setting up.
• Set Clear Expectations – It’s important to discuss the expectations of a newborn photography session with the parents. Some prefer a lifestyle session vs a more stylized session with props.

• Using Props – Simplicity works best with newborns. Start with simpler, classic shots. After that, you can breakout the newborn photography props. Make sure your props enhance the photograph, and not dominate it. The focus should always be on the baby. Start with the parent’s favorite props, and if all is going well, move on to the next set. Let the baby be your guide.
• Plan Your Poses – Expect the unexpected, so make sure you have a variety of different poses planned. All babies are different. Some like to curl into a ball, others like to be stretched out. You will have to adjust your poses to each baby. Never try to force them into a pose.
• Be Patient – Make sure you allow 2 – 4 hours for a newborn session. Newborns can be unpredictable. Even the calmest baby can become fussy. Newborns will need feeding breaks throughout the photo session.
• Keep the Baby Happy and Comfortable – The baby is the boss here. If he or she is not happy, there is no photo session. Keep the baby warm, take breaks when the baby needs to be fed, calmed, or changed.

Be sure to download our cheat sheet for newborn photography!

Download Newborn Cheat Sheet