7 Things To Keep In Mind When Planning A Newborn Photo Session

You almost can’t go wrong when photographing a newborn, but here are 7 things I like to keep in mind when I do.

1. Things You Will Need

Make sure to have receiving blankets, diapers, wipes, and a pacifier (if baby takes one) on hand. I made use of all of the above during my recent newborn shoot.

2. Enlist Those Around You

You will have moments when you will be behind the camera and need someone to help “spot” baby. Have Mommy or Daddy on standby as your assistants.

3. Incorporate Props

Bring props if you have them and think about props that the family might have that will add personality, uniqueness, and style to the final image. For example:

• A favorite team’s jersey, a baseball mitt, etc.
• Items with sentimental value
• Blankets with lots of texture
• Baskets, buckets, bowls or anything that a newborn could fit into or onto that might be interesting

4. Expect To Work In Mini Sessions

Diaper changes, feedings and cry periods are inevitable and all come with the territory.

Take advantage of the deep sleep period that usually follows a full stomach to get those precious sleeping baby shots.   This is usually when babies are the most malleable.

Remember that good results take time.  Don’t rush it.

5. Getting A Pose

Natural is always nice, but posing is ok too and can in fact be lots of fun with newborns. Sometimes just a little adjustment of position can greatly improve an image.

Try different things and remember that not all babies will cooperate with everything you do—they’ll let you know if they don’t like something.

Bottom Line: Don’t be afraid to pose newborns, however work within their comfort zone. 

6. Poop Happens

If you want any naked baby photos be ready for the certainty of peepee and poopoo accidents.

The star of this shoot actually “let loose” on his big sister’s leg right as we were setting him on her lap. Poor big sissy! We had a hard time convincing her to get close to him again. Her papa did eventually manage to reassure her that baby brother was not going to do it again.

Big sister before her little brother pooped on her

Papa trying to convince big sister to get close to her brother again

Reconciled

7. Bring A Tripod!

It was great to have during the indoor session when the baby was asleep and I needed to use a slow shutter speed. With all the stuff I have to bring for my own baby boy and little girl, who accompany me, I am often tempted to leave my tripod at home rather than lugging it with me (it’s not the lightest piece of equipment I own), but I am always glad that I do bring it.

Looking for more tips on photographing your newborn? Visit I ♥ Faces which recently posted similar great advice “Inspiration: “Tips for Capturing Newborns”