This guide provides simple yet effective tips on How To Take Newborn Photos at home. While these tips don’t replace a professional newborn photographer, they will help you capture beautiful images of your little one using your camera phone. We’ll cover location, lighting, camera settings, posing, and even including your pets!
Choosing the Right Location for Your DIY Newborn Photoshoot
Keep it simple! The nursery and master bedroom often provide excellent backdrops for newborn photos.
- Nursery: Clear any clutter. A blanket draped over the crib and a few simple stuffed animals are all you need.
- Master Bedroom: Make the bed with a fresh, light-colored quilt or duvet, fluff the pillows, and clear off the nightstands.
alt text: A baby laying in a crib with a blanket.
Finding the Perfect Light for Newborn Photography
Good lighting is crucial for stunning newborn photos. Soft, even, and bright light is ideal.
- Natural Light: Utilize window light. North-facing windows are often preferred, but any window that doesn’t have direct sunlight will work.
- Time of Day: Observe your chosen location at different times to determine when the light is softest and brightest.
- Maximize Light: Open blinds and curtains wide. Turn off all artificial lights to avoid color casts. Consider using sheer curtains to diffuse harsh sunlight.
alt text: A baby laying on a bed with window light.
Camera Phone Settings for Newborn Pictures
- No Flash: Turn off the flash. It creates harsh shadows and can startle the baby.
- Steady Hand: Hold your phone steady to prevent blurry images. Use a tripod if possible.
- Focus and Exposure: Tap the screen to set the focus point. Adjust the exposure by sliding your finger up or down on the sun icon.
- Portrait Mode: Experiment with portrait mode for a blurred background effect.
alt text: Close up of baby's feet in crib.
Simple Posing for Newborn Photos
Don’t stress about recreating complex poses. Focus on these two simple setups:
Crib Poses
- Placement: Lay the baby in the crib facing the room.
- Angles: Capture overhead shots, close-ups of tiny toes, side shots through the crib rails, and full-body shots.
alt text: Baby in crib from a side angle through the rails.
Master Bedroom Poses
- Swaddled Baby: Swaddle the baby and place them near the foot of the bed.
- Angles: Take vertical and horizontal shots. Capture overhead shots showcasing the bedding and any artwork above the bed. Consider using a letterboard to personalize the photo.
alt text: Overhead shot of swaddled baby on bed with letterboard.
Including Furry Family Members in Newborn Photos
- Cats: Be patient and capture candid moments as they interact with the baby.
- Calm Dogs: If your dog is calm and well-behaved, you can try posing them near the baby, but always prioritize safety.
- Energetic Dogs: For energetic dogs, keep the baby safely in the crib and let the dog interact through the rails. Use a treat to attract the dog’s attention.
alt text: Dog looking at baby in crib through the rails.
Editing Your Newborn Photos
- Lightroom Mobile App: Use the Lightroom mobile app for editing. It’s a powerful tool used by many professional photographers.
- Presets: Explore presets (similar to Instagram filters) to simplify the editing process.
alt text: Edited newborn photo of baby wrapped in blanket.
Relax and Enjoy the Process!
Taking newborn photos yourself can be challenging, but remember to be patient and enjoy the process. These tips will help you capture precious memories of your newborn. Consider hiring a professional for a full newborn session to ensure you’re also included in the photos!
