For over five years, we've been immersed in the world of newborn photography, and let me tell you, it's a beautiful yet challenging journey. While your photography techniques, lighting, and posing skills are crucial, there are some essential things we’ve learned along the way, things that go beyond the technical aspects. So here are five key tips every newborn photographer should know.
1. Patience is everything.
Babies are unpredictable. No two sessions are ever the same! Half the time, you’ll be lucky to have a calm, cooperative baby, but the other half, well, it can be chaotic. Even after years of experience, some babies just won’t settle when posed (and yes, it will make you question your life choices at times!). Personally, I’ve handled up to two babies in a day, and by the end of it, I’m absolutely drained. I could barely hold a conversation afterward. My advice is to build workflows in place for different situations. For instance, if a baby doesn’t like their hands being moved too much, focus on poses that work around that. It's always helpful to have a chat with the parents beforehand to understand what their baby is comfortable with and what adjustments can be made to create the best possible experience for everyone involved.
2. Handling family members is an art.
One of the most underrated aspects of newborn photography is handling family dynamics, and trust me, it’s a skill of its own. We even have an entire section in our training dedicated to building trust with family members, especially when it’s the family’s first baby.
When Jayson and I were starting, I noticed that when he handled the baby, he was often surrounded by concerned family members, watching his every move. But when I stepped in, it was different. Being a mom myself, they naturally trusted that I knew what I was doing. It’s funny how these little things matter. Sometimes, it’s not just about the baby, but the family’s trust in you.
3. Full-wrapped swaddle is your best friend.
If there’s one thing I can’t recommend enough, it’s full-wrapped swaddling. Most babies love this kind of swaddle because it mimics the warmth and comfort of the womb. It’s like their little safety blanket (literally!). Whenever a baby is fussy or can’t seem to settle, swaddling usually does the trick. Plus, it helps them feel secure and calm, which makes posing so much easier. If you are running out of patience (see #1), then it's time to swaddle!
4. There's no "perfect" time for a shoot.
We’ve photographed babies as young as 7 days old and as old as 2 months (we can still consider them newborns). And honestly? No session is ever the same. There’s no magic age when newborn photography becomes easier or better; it varies with every baby. However, we do recommend scheduling shoots around the 2-3 week mark. At this age, babies are still small enough to capture those adorable newborn features, but have also started developing a bit of personality. But again, every baby is different, so go with the flow!
5. Safety always comes first.
Safety should always be the number one priority during any newborn session. We’ve established strict protocols to ensure the well-being of not only the baby but also our team and the parents. This became even more critical during the pandemic when we had to enter clients’ homes for shoots.
In our studio, our safety measures include staff vaccinations, mandatory hand sanitization, and regular cleaning of all props and equipment. Jayson, with his background, is trained in first aid and basic life support, which adds an extra layer of reassurance for everyone involved. If possible, I highly recommend getting certified in basic life support yourself. It’s an invaluable skill when working with such precious little ones.
Some of the guidelines we use are:
- Never leave a baby unattended. Always keep a close watch when the baby is in a prop, on the posing bag, or with a young sibling.
- Always have an assistant, second photographer, or parent close by. This is especially important when using props to ensure the baby’s safety.
- Support the baby with your hand or finger while posing.
- Never force a baby into a pose. Instead, use gentle, small movements to transition between poses.
- Never position yourself on anything elevated above the baby, as there's always a risk of falling or the object breaking, which could potentially harm the baby.
- Avoid using fragile props like glass or items that could tip over. Always prioritize safety by steering clear of unstable or potentially hazardous props and equipments.
If a baby isn’t settling into a pose or shows signs of discomfort by waking or wriggling, it’s time to move on to the next workflow.
You can also watch this interview with our friendly pedia doctor regarding safety.
Conclusion
Starting in newborn photography is an incredible adventure, filled with equal parts joy and exhaustion (trust me!). But by keeping these tips in mind, especially patience and safety, you’ll find your rhythm and create beautiful memories for families. Remember, it’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about creating a safe, comforting environment for both the baby and their family.
