MENIFEE, Calif. -- How to Prepare for a Newborn Photography Shoot
You may have noticed that brand spankin’ new babies don’t exactly pose when it’s time to have their picture taken. This is pretty much the most important thing to know about newborn photography, and it will be a constant in your newborn documenting adventures. Because babies don’t pose, you’re going to have to be very flexible and in the moment. Don’t fret! There is some good news. Usually you can make this work to your advantage — some of your best photos will often happen when the infant falls asleep during the shoot. That said, there are some steps that can help baby, parents and the photographer to prepare for a newborn photo shoot and bring out those photos that you strive for as a newborn photographer:

1. Parent & Baby Preparation
In order to accomplish your goals as a newborn photographer you will need parents who know what to expect and are prepared ahead of time. The best way to prepare the parents is to compile a list of tips to get both mommy and daddy ready for the shoot: length of the session, what you’ll be bringing, to expect messes and delays, and to warm up the house (even if you bring along a space heater, which is a great addition to your kit.) Ideally, mom will feed the baby while the photographer sets up.

2. Expectations
There are two types of newborn photography – studio (posed) and lifestyle. Studio type sessions are usually scheduled within the first 2 weeks of birth because baby sleeps a majority of the time. The baby can typically be positioned perfectly swaddled in blankets, wraps or specialty fabrics, and wearing various hats or stylish headbands. Lifestyle type sessions take place in the baby’s home environment and are often captured with the parents holding the baby in a variety of poses. Regardless of which type of newborn photography you decide to focus on, be sure that the parents expectations about the type of photos they are looking for are clearly stated and understood.

White Washed Wood Photography Backdrop (http://dropsprops.com/product/white-washed-wood-photograp...) | Photo by Fresh Art Photography (http://www.freshartphotography.com/)

3. The Kit
Newborn photography requires almost as much preparation as shooting a wedding. You should certainly create a checklist to review before every shoot. We have compiled an example checklist for you below:

Camera
Backup camera
Lenses
Formatted memory cards
Toys (for siblings that might join in the session)
Infant poser(s)
Backdrop(s)
Backdrop stand and clamps
Space heater
Step stool
A change of clothes (Well, you know why)
Props and small blankets
Hats and headbands

4. Ideal Backdrops
Whether you’re doing studio or location work with newborns, a selection of quality photography backdrops is a must. Soft solids and dreamy patterns are ideal; our Solid Backdrop Collection offers many soft colors that would be perfect for a newborn photography shoot. You can also order any of our backdrops in a poly paper material, such as our Baby Clouds Photography Backdrop which is very popular with newborn photography. Newborn-sized backdrops are small enough to be easily transported to locations or changed out quickly in the studio.

Treasure Map Photography Backdrop | Photo by JME Portraits (http://jmeportraits.com/)

5. Soft and Natural Lighting
Whenever possible, make use of the natural lighting streaming in through windows during lifestyle/location shoots. Try diffusing sunlight through a translucent curtain. Choose studio lighting that is warm, soft and diffused for posed shots.

6. Be Selective with Props
You don’t want to overwhelm yourself by bringing out too many props. Instead, plan 3 to 4 different looks/themes and setups for the baby ahead of time based upon the client’s expectations and preferences. Include items the client provides as well — perhaps a family heirloom blanket, or something that’s special to dad.

7. Aperture Setting and Lenses
In newborn photography, many poses involve extreme angles. Your sharpness and depth of field will benefit from shooting at around f/2 and f/2.2. Also, when baby falls asleep, switch to a macro lens and focus on some extreme close-up shots. Zoom in on fingers, toes, tufts of hair, ears, pouty lips, etc. Open up those little closed fists to add a more peaceful, relaxed vibe to the images.

8. Include Mom, Dad and/or Siblings
The sad reality is that other family members often don’t appear in photos with newborns. Encourage mom, dad and brothers and/or sisters to get in some frames. Sometimes new moms feel too exhausted to feel up to posing, but remind her that she will treasure those photos years from now. Keep mommy/baby poses easy and gentle.

9. Let the Baby Inspire You
Find inspiration before the photo shoot by checking your client’s Facebook or Pinterest accounts to view some of their personal photos. Seeing the family ahead of time can help you to have some poses in mind before the session. However, once you arrive, you should also allow the shoot to unfold organically; some of the best baby photography images are unplanned. Stay in the moment as the child moves, yawns, stretches or cries. From bright blue eyes to dimples to a full head of hair, highlight the uniqueness of each baby.

Grass Floor Drop (http://dropsprops.com/product/grass-photography-backdrop/) | Photo by Red Elephant Studio (http://www.theredelephantstudio.com/)

10. Be Safe, Persistent and Prolific
Be aware of newborn photography safety considerations before you begin — posers should be soft, padded and secure. All props should be non-toxic and have soft, pliable edges. Remember also that although the baby won’t say a word, they are in charge of the shoot; if they don’t want to go to sleep, continue taking lifestyle shots until they tire themselves out. Know that the session likely won’t go as you planned, but keep on shooting — those unplanned moments just might be where the magic happens.


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