Newborn photography is a beautiful way to capture the fleeting moments of a baby’s first days. If you’re a photographer just starting out in this niche, it can be daunting to prepare for a newborn session. Ensuring everything runs smoothly involves careful planning, patience, and the right tools. Here are the top things from Max Toronto-based Newborn Photographer you need to start a newborn photo session on the right foot.
1. Plan the Session with the Parents
Before the session, it’s essential to communicate thoroughly with the parents. Discuss their preferences, color schemes, any specific poses or props they want, and the baby’s typical routine. This conversation will help you set expectations and ensure that both you and the parents are aligned on the vision for the session.
Ask questions like:
- Do they want siblings or family portraits included?
- Are there special blankets or heirlooms they’d like in the photos?
- Does the baby have any sensitivities or routines you should be aware of?
A well-planned session reduces stress and ensures smooth workflow during the shoot.
2. Create a Comfortable and Safe Environment
Newborns are delicate, so safety and comfort are your top priorities. The space should be warm—ideally between 75-80°F (24-27°C)—as babies are sensitive to the cold, especially if you’re doing shots where the baby is wrapped or partially uncovered.
- Use heaters (but keep them at a safe distance from the baby).
- Make sure to have soft, clean surfaces like blankets, pillows, and padding for the baby.
- Ensure that all props, wraps, and equipment are sanitized and free from sharp or rough edges.
Safety is paramount, so never leave the baby unattended on props or in elevated positions. Always have a spotter or parent close by.
3. Gather Essential Equipment and Props
Having the right equipment can make or break a newborn photography session. Here’s a checklist of essentials:
- Camera and Lenses: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with good low-light performance is essential. A 50mm or 85mm lens is ideal for those intimate close-ups, while a wide-angle lens can capture more of the environment.
- Tripod: This can help stabilize your camera for long exposures and ensure steady shots.
- Reflectors and Diffused Lighting: Natural light is often best for newborn photography, but you may need to diffuse harsh light using sheer curtains or reflectors to soften shadows.
- Soft Props: Blankets, wraps, and cushions in soft textures and neutral tones are a must. These help position the baby comfortably and create a serene, cozy look.
- Cute Accessories: Headbands, tiny hats, and other newborn-sized accessories can add charm and personality to your photos.
- Backgrounds and Backdrops: Invest in a few high-quality, wrinkle-free backdrops that are neutral and timeless. Simplicity is key for keeping the focus on the baby.
4. Master the Baby Wrapping Techniques
One of the most iconic looks in newborn photography is the baby swaddled in cozy, soft wraps. Learning how to wrap babies safely and beautifully is a key skill for a successful session.
There are various wrapping techniques like the “potato sack” or “taco” wrap, and you can use stretchable wraps that comfortably hug the baby’s body without being too tight. Practice different styles, as each creates a different visual effect, from simple cocooning to elaborate layers.
5. Patience and Timing are Everything
Newborns are unpredictable. They might need frequent breaks for feeding, diaper changes, or just comforting. Sessions can last several hours, so it’s crucial to stay patient and allow time for the baby to get into deep sleep, which is when you can pose them more easily.
Try to schedule your sessions when the baby is typically sleepy—usually during the late morning. Avoid over-stimulation, keep the atmosphere calm, and always be prepared to work around the baby’s needs.
6. Noise Control and White Noise
Newborns are used to the comforting sounds they heard in the womb, which is why white noise or soft background sounds can help soothe them. Bring a white noise machine or play calming sounds on a speaker to keep the baby relaxed during the shoot.
Silence is not always golden when it comes to newborn photography—many babies find a low hum more reassuring than complete quiet.
7. Flexibility with Poses
While it’s good to have a general list of poses in mind (like the “froggy” pose or “taco” pose), it’s equally important to stay flexible. Some babies don’t like certain positions, or they may not be in the right mood. Always go with the flow and adapt to what the baby is comfortable with.
Don’t push a pose if the baby seems distressed or uncomfortable. Instead, focus on capturing natural moments, even if they aren’t part of your original plan. Candid shots of the baby stretching, yawning, or smiling can turn out to be some of the most cherished photos.
8. Assistants or Extra Hands
Having a second person present during the session is helpful for ensuring the baby’s safety and for practical reasons like adjusting props, holding reflectors, or simply assisting in positioning the baby. If you’re just starting out and don’t have an assistant, asking a parent to help in small ways can make the session easier and safer.
9. Post-Processing Tools and Workflow
After the session, post-processing is where you can really enhance the final images. Lightroom and Photoshop are two key tools used in newborn photography to perfect skin tones, remove any redness or flaky skin, and add warmth to the overall image.
Some editing tips for newborn photos:
- Smooth out skin, but avoid over-editing so the baby still looks natural.
- Remove distractions like background blemishes or visible props.
- Adjust lighting and color balance to create a warm, inviting feel.
10. Be Ready for Anything
Newborns are unpredictable, and every session can bring new challenges. Stay calm and be ready for diaper accidents, feeding breaks, and moments when the baby needs comforting. The more relaxed and prepared you are, the more the parents and baby will feel at ease, which leads to better results.
