Bringing a new life into this world is a whirlwind of emotions and joy. As new parents, or soon-to-be-parents, every second spent with your newborn is like a precious moment that deserves to be cherished forever. Even though sometimes it feels like being on a night train to the other side of the world with never ending cycles of diaper changes, feeds, nose cleanings, putting to sleeps and of course hours of cuddles, time flies and that newborn phase ends before we realise.
One timeless way to capture these fleeting moments is through newborn photography. Some families have the budget to hire us, newborn photographers and some prefer doing it at home by themselves. In both cases, there are things we should be paying attention to.
Let's dive into the art of newborn photography and explore valuable tips to ensure that we capture these priceless moments safely.
Newborn photography is more than just snapping pictures; it's about freezing those adorable yawns, tiny toes, and peaceful slumbers in a frame that you can treasure for a lifetime. The innocence and purity of newborns make every photograph a work of art that is truly heartwarming. Understanding the significance of these moments makes the process of photographing newborns more magical.
Here is the essentials I gathered for us. As you will see I wont talk about hygiene because I assume we all know it.
Essentials for Newborn Photoshooting
1. Be relaxed and flexible
A newborn session can be scheduled to start at a certain time and we try to foresee when it ends but at the end, it should be a relaxed time. We don't want to rush the baby, postpone the feedings or try the poses that baby doesn't feel comfortable in. Remember, we are there to keep the memories. The more relaxed the merrier.
2. Be Mindful of Poses and Safety
While adorable poses can make for captivating photographs, never compromise your baby's safety for the sake of an artistic shot. Opt for poses that are comfortable for the baby and avoid intricate setups that may put the infant at risk. For ex, we should pay attention to the colours of the limbs, make sure they don't get dark purple which show that blood is not reaching there as it should be.
Also, during the session, make sure your baby stays close to the ground, not on the edge of a bed or a prop, has enough head support and not in weird positions for the legs.
There should be someone close to the baby because you never know how and when babies startle and roll. Yes, they can/do roll at very early weeks.
If there is an artifical lightsource, make sure it is secured and won't fall over the prop area.
3. Maintain Optimal Temperature
Newborns are sensitive to temperature changes, so it's crucial to keep the environment warm and cozy during the photoshoot. Using gentle space heaters or swaddling your baby in soft blankets can help regulate their body temperature and ensure they remain snug throughout the session.
4. Diffuse your light
If you are photographing your own baby with natural light, make sure you get really close to the window and set your setup there. Avoid harsh, direct lighting that may disturb the baby or cast unflattering shadows. Soft, diffused light creates a warm and gentle ambience for your baby's photoshoot. You can use a sheer curtain if there is direct sunlight coming in. A cloudy day is your friend when it comes to photography.
As a professional, I use a light that is bright enough to get the creamy, clear photos but also soft enough that babies keep sleeping under it.
5. Make a list of poses you like
Even though your baby will decide which poses they like, it is good to have a vision of what to look for. Especially if you are not experienced, it would be good to create a Pinterest board to save the images you like to create. This brings us to the next point:
6. Go for a timeless look
I know seeing your little one as a little Harry Potter or a Winnie the Pooh can bu so much fun and there's no harm aiming for such looks but make sure your whole session is not about the props and decorations and costumes. Over the years, your taste will change. Trends will change...
Even though I don't do costumes, I always start with off whites and creams and make sure we have those timeless shots before we move on to colours and props.
7. Book a professional newborn photographer if you can
Embracing the journey of parenthood with newborn photography allows you to capture not just images, but emotions, stories, and a bond that will last forever.
Booking a photographer not only will save you time and energy but also will deliver you the end product that you were aiming to see. Although it is not a must have, if you have the budget, I think it is one of the best investments because capturing and preserving these invaluable memories is a gift you give not just to yourself, but also to your child—who, one day, will look back on these photographs and see the unwavering love that welcomed them into this world.
As you embark on this beautiful journey, remember that the safety and well-being of your baby should always come first. By following the outlined guidelines and entrusting your precious moments to a skilled newborn photographer, you can ensure that every snapshot tells a tale of love, warmth, and the purest form of joy.
Happy photographing, and may your baby's first moments be forever etched in time!
Let me know if you are living in or around Hamburg. I'll be more than happy to be your photographer and capture those precious moments of you little one.
All the best,
Ezgi
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