“A baby has a special way of adding joy in every single day”
-Unknown
Being a baby photographer for many years, I know what it takes to create a successful baby portrait session. Photographing newborns and infants requires careful preparation and lots of patience. Follow the seven tips listed below for your upcoming baby portrait session.
1. CLOTHING: Keep it simple. Choose clothing in soft colors like pastels. Lighter is better than darker. Avoid stripes, patterns and logos. Make sure the clothing fits properly. Too large a size and the baby disappears, hands and feet are hidden by folds of clothing. In case of accidents, have three to four outfits to choose from. We may only use one or two. it is a good idea to have bloomers to cover the diaper.
2. LOCATION: If the temperature is warm enough, it may be possible to work outside if the light is soft or somewhat shaded. Avoid bright sunlight; young children will keep their eyes closed. Indoors, look for the rooms that have the most light. Sometimes it’s the master bedroom or a living room. Remove any clutter from these areas in advance.
3. BLANKETS: Have available any afghans, quilts, blankets, baby wraps and large scarfs. For photographs without clothes, I like to cover the private areas and will use an edge of a quilt, or baby wrap.
4. BABY WIPES, BURP CLOTHS: These come in very handy!
5. SOUNDS AND SONGS: Babies respond to touch and sounds. If you have any music pillows, rattles, songs you sing, have them ready and be prepared to be silly.
6. PROPS: Was your child given a special stuffed animal, heirloom baby rattle, maybe a hat or scarf? Have those nearby to include in a few photographs.
7. PARENTAL PARTICIPATION: You are an important part of your child’s first session so be prepared to be in some of the photographs. Clothing doesn’t have to be identical but similar tonality is helpful. Moms- wear something that makes you feel good, Dad’s – the plain colored shirts work better than stripes or plaids.
Most of all, relax, have fun and enjoy your baby!!
