HOW TO TAKE THE BEST NEWBORN PICTURES WITHOUT THE NEED FOR SPECIAL EQUIPMENT OR EXPERIENCE
Thanks to the smart phones that are almost always within arms reach, it's easy to capture lots of photos of your new baby on a daily basis. But what if you want to go beyond the day to day candids to capture professional quality photos on your own? It's actually easier than you think.
We interviewed 3 professional newborn photographers for tips on taking newborn photos at home and on your phone, so you can capture beautiful memories that last a lifetime.
Read on for our six tips for taking amazing photos of your newborn.
1. Time it just right
The best time to take newborn photos is between 4 days to 2 weeks old. At this age, your baby is still very sleepy and likes to be curled up as if they were still in the womb. Also, some babies can get baby acne around 3 weeks old, which is something to keep in mind. To help ensure you get the photos you're hoping for, set up your space so that it is nice and warm and aim to take your photos shortly after feeding your baby so they are happy and full. Keeping your baby comfortable will make a big difference as you snap away with your camera or phone.
2. Incorporate older siblings and/or your partner
Since these early days are the tiniest your baby will ever be, incorporating older siblings and/or your partner can really help to show the size of your baby. We recommend photographing your baby with your partner's hands to show how tiny your baby is and that they basically fit in the palms of your hands. When it comes to incorporating older siblings into newborn photos, wait until you are ready to snap the photos before you have older siblings get into the frame. They may loose their patience if they have to sit still while you arrange baby or find the right angle. Pro tip from a photographer: A great pose is to photograph them from above, this way the sibling doesn’t need to hold baby if they are too young!
3. Get those precious newborn poses
The burning question all parents are dying to know — how do professional photographers capture those beautiful poses? Hint: a sleepy and full baby is key to getting those bendy poses! Be patient, move very slowly, and take great care in handling your baby. You can use pillows, blankets, or other soft stuffers to prop baby up or angle them a certain way. Textured fabrics can also help hold a baby's position. If you’re not working with a photographer and taking these images at home, make sure the space is warm and again, always make sure to handle baby gently and safely.
4. Get the best lighting
The most important takeaway when it comes to capturing the best photos is lighting! To get the best lighting, choose a spot in your house with a lot of natural, indirect light. Please keep in mind that this lighting should NOT be direct. Harsh lighting will be uncomfortable for baby, and the image won’t look as natural and clear. An example of a great place to start would be a bed, couch, or even on a baby quilt on the floor by a window with indirect, natural lighting peering in.
5. Capture the candid moments
When taking pictures of your newborn, try to capture the everyday, seemingly insignificant moments at home. Think about those tiny newborn feet, the little hands, the flaky skin — all of those qualities that just go by so fast. Or if an older sibling wants to help feed the baby, set them up next to a window to get the right lighting. Bath time in the kitchen sink is another picture-worthy moment that can be taken to the next level with a little planning ahead.
6. Remember to keep it simple
Keeping it simple will make it easier for you, baby, siblings, and anyone else involved in the photos. We know it can be tempting to create an elaborate background or include a bunch of different outfits or props, but in the end, that can create more stress for you and maybe even make your baby less comfortable. Instead of adding extra props and fuss, opt instead to lay baby on a beautiful baby quilt or swaddle blanket, so your photos can truly focus on your baby, which after all, is the reason for the photos in the first place.
If in the end, you decide that you'd rather work with a professional newborn photographer, be sure to look for someone with specific experience with newborns. Because photographing babies is so different from weddings or families, it’s important to make sure you’re working with someone who is experienced and trained to handle your baby. It's also important that you like their style of photography. While some photographers keep it simple, others like to add more accessories, so keep your personal preferences in mind before booking.
Taking good photos may require a bit of practice and patience, but by planning ahead a little and setting up in the right place, you can capture those frame-worthy photos all from the comfort of your own home.
Having a beautiful backdrop is something that can really take your photos to the next level. Read on to learn more about Coco Moon, or click below to shop our line of photo blankets and more.
Nalu Swaddle
Plumeria Footie
Honu Honi Onesie
The Welcome Set
Nalu Swaddle
Pot O' Aloha Onesie
About Coco Moon Hawaii
We create buttery-soft baby essentials inspired by memories of a childhood in Hawaii. Founded by a mom of two boys, Coco Moon’s silky-smooth fabrics and vibrant, modern designs help you create beautiful memories with your ‘ohana. And because we donate 1% of your purchase directly to non-profits doing powerful work on the ground in Hawaii, you’re supporting the health of our island communities, environment, and children. Mahalo nui for being part of our efforts.
Check out some of our faves...
Pōhai Ke Aloha Swaddle
$26.00
Pot O' Aloha Coverall
$30.00
Surf Report Swaddle
$26.00
You Are My Sunshine Baby Quilt
$60.00
Nalu Hat
$12.00
Honu Honi Swaddle
$26.00
Plumeria Crib Sheet
$32.00
Pacific Hues Onesie
$23.00
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My newborn baby girl was gifted a quilt, swaddle, towel set, and onesies for her debut and we love it all! The onesies are so soft and the plumeria print is the cutest! The quilt and swaddles feel like she’s wrapped in clouds so I had to buy a few more for our collection!! ❤️️
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- MS
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