Newborn Photography Tips That Will Completely Change Your Images
- Discuss the best age range to get the photos wanted. Typically, two weeks after birth is a good target to shoot for.
- Explain how long the session will last. This will help parents plan around other daily events, like feeding and nap time.
- Provide a list of things the parents need to bring - diapers, baby wipes, different outfits, formula, and the like.
- Give tips for making the baby as comfortable as possible during the session. This includes feeding right before the session, keeping the baby awake in the hour or so prior to the session, and so forth.
Photo by Belly Beautiful Photography by Karen Marie
Whether you're an old pro at newborn photography or you're just starting out taking these types of photos, there's always room for improvement
The question, of course, always comes down to this - what specifically can I do to make my images better?
There are a lot of answers to that question...
Some are more important than others, though.
Let's take a look at three critical tips you can use to see vast improvements in the quality of your newborn photography.
Think About Lighting
Photo by Susy Martinez Photography
Just like any other type of photograph, the success of the pictures you take of newborns will be determined in large part by the lighting that you use.
A big part of lighting isn't just the type and quality of the light but also the angle at which the light falls on your tiny subject.
Using frontlighting - as with any portrait subject - can be unflattering and flat and result in a one-dimensional feel in the photo. As a result, using light that comes across the newborn at an angle is preferable.
But why?
Angled lighting adds soft shadows on the baby's face, thus giving the shot a more three-dimensional look with greater depth.
In the image above, you can see how positioning the light to the left side of the frame allows for some soft shadowing on the opposite side of the baby's face.
Those soft shadows are emphasized by the texture of the blanket and the baby's wrap, which itself has some nice shadows that give the image further depth.
Photo by Belly Beautiful by Karen Marie
In this close-up shot, notice the very subtle shadowing that's a result of light entering the frame from our left.
The slight shadow near the nose and on the temple as well as the deeper shadowing on the baby's left arm give the image improved depth.
But notice how this and the previous image use very soft shadows. You don't need harsh lighting or strong shadows to give the image the impression of dimension!
The Wardrobe and Accessories Matter
Photo by Belly Beautiful by Karen Marie
One of the most impactful things you can do to improve your newborn photography is to use the wardrobe and accessories to your advantage.
For example, just like lighting can add depth and interest to a newborn portrait, so too can the wardrobe and accessory choices.
In the image above, note how the subtle layering of the wrap gives the eye interesting lines to follow around the baby's body.
What's more, the floral crown adds depth with its layers of highly-textured blooms.
Photo by Abba Color Photography
Another option is to add a little sparkle to the shot with something like a rhinestone crown or tieback like the one shown above.
This kind of accessory adds elegance to a newborn photo that separates it from more traditional newborn shots.
What's more, by pairing a crown or tieback with a gorgeous newborn dress, gown, or romper, you can further elevate the image with textural details that bring the viewer's eye to the baby more effectively.
Photo by Axsys Design
Accessories don't have to be deep with detail to add a richness to the shot, either.
In this example, simply layering different textiles under the baby adds nice color contrast and varying textures as well.
Note how basket adds further detail that adds a more linear element that works well with the softer appearance of the blankets.
Communication is the Key
Photo by Belly Beautiful by Karen Marie
This might seem like a real "DUH" moment, but you'd be surprised how many photographers neglect this all-important step.
Communication with your client is crucial because it allows you to both get on the same page.
On the one hand, you need to understand what it is that the proud parents want in terms of photos. Sit down with them in person to develop a shot list.
For example, show them samples of your work to get a better idea of what it is they want. Do they want something simple like the close-up image above? Do they want something more complex, with props like the image below? Or do they want a combination thereof?
Photo by Belly Beautiful by Karen Marie
On the other hand, your clients need to understand your workflow and what you need from them in order to make the newborn session a success.
Here's a few things to mention to your clients about your newborn sessions:
When it comes down to it, improving your newborn photography isn't just about posing or light, it's also about outfitting the baby with gorgeous accessories and working with your clients as a team to decide the best way to approach the shoot.
If you can do that, I think you'll be pleased with the improvements you see in your photos!
About Sew Trendy
This is a company that photographers absolutely need to be in touch with. Their gowns, crowns, and other high-quality accessories are just what you need for maternity photos, photos of newborns, and mommy and me sessions. These accessories not only make your clients look and feel great, but they also add a depth of detail and interest to your photos that elevate the images to an entirely other level. What started out with just a few people manufacturing these eye-catching items is a growing business that provides accessories to photographers worldwide. Help your clients look and feel their best by partnering with Sew Trendy Accessories.
