What You Need to Know for Your Newborn Shoot

By Jada Parrish

Posted: 09/12/13

Category: Newborn Photography Tips

If you're a few weeks away from giving birth, it's already time to start thinking about having newborn photos taken. Newborn photography is so beautiful and intimate. During these shoots you can really see the love and infatuation radiating off of the new parents' faces. There honestly is nothing sweeter than a photo of a newborn baby. Newborn photo shoots can be a bit tricky though because we are working with some very tempermental subjects. Here are a few tips to help guide you through your newborn photo shoot and make sure you get the best photos possible of your new bundle of joy. 

 

1. Work around the baby's schedule

 

A newborn shoot is all about the baby, so make sure you plan the shoot around the baby's schedule. It's usually best to start photographing the baby once they have been fed and are at peace. Sleepy babies are so much more cooperative and easy to photograph. We understand that the first few weeks of parenthood can be a little overwhelming. We want your newborn shoot to be as easy and hassle free as possible, so we will come to your home to take all of the photos. Keeping the baby in their usual environment helps keeps them calm and happy.

 

2. Schedule your newborn shoot within the first two weeks of life

The sooner you schedule your newborn shoot the better! Babies are the easiest to work with during the first two weeks so life because they really just love to curl up and sleep. After the first couple weeks, many babies tend to get baby acne..which is another reason why it's important to get your newborn photos taken as soon as possible. 

If you're pregnant and planning on having newborn photos taken, let your photographer know that your due date is approaching so they can keep that in mind and make sure to leave some time in their schedule.

** You can absolutely have newborn photos taken after the first two weeks, I have just found that shoots go more smoothly if the photos are taken earlier on.

 

3. Be prepared to move slowly

Be prepared to move slowly through your newborn shoot. This shoot really is all about the baby. We want to keep the baby calm and happy no matter what...even if that means stopping for feedings, diaper changes, and breaks. Generally a newborn shoot lasts about two hours, but we are prepared to stay longer if need be to make sure we capture every precious moment. 

 

4. Keep the house warm

Crank the heat! Keeping your home a little bit warmer than normal during your newborn shoot will help keep the baby calm and put them to sleep. It also is a good idea to use a heating pad with several blankets stacked on top to help soothe the baby.

 

5. Don't try to recreate pinterest

Pinterest has tons of very cute ideas for newborn shoots, but some of them can be a little unrealistic. Every baby is different. Some babies are incredibly cooperative and can be placed in all kinds of adorable poses without fussing at all. Other babies just can't. Don't try to make your baby do anything they don't want to do. Some of the most beautiful photos of newborns are the natural ones. Honestly is there anything cuter than a sleeping baby?

 

6. Have lots of blankets and props on hand

I'm sure you've gathered tons of adorable baby clothes, blankets, and shoes from your baby shower. It's time to put them to use! Having a variety of different blankets, outfits, and props on hand can really add to a newborn shoot. Just make sure that your baby feels happy and comfortable in them. 

 

7. Natural light is the best light

There's no light like natural light. We try to avoid using flashes when photographing newborns. Try to find a place in your home with a big open window that gets great natural light for your newborn shoot. It really can make all the difference.

 

8. Make sure to get family photos

 

Of course the newborn shoot is all about the baby, but make sure your photographer gets some intimate photos of each of you with your beautiful baby. Those will be the photos that you will treasure forever.

 

J&D photography is based out of Richmond, Virginia but we are available to travel. If you'd like to schedule a newborn shoot please send us an email at info@j-dphoto.com

We are also available for maternity shoots! Click to view some of our maternity photos.