When I had my first child, I thought hiring a photographer wasn’t necessary. I bought what I believed was a “nice” camera and confidently decided I could take the photos myself. This was the worst decision and I still regret it to this day. I missed out on those beautiful, timeless images because I didn’t understand posing, lighting, or how delicate newborn photography truly is.
If you can afford it, I always recommend hiring a professional newborn photographer someone trained in posing, lighting, safety, and using professional grade equipment. But I also understand that sometimes it simply isn’t financially possible. That’s why I want to share the best tips I can give for photographing your newborn safely and beautifully at home.
Whether you plan to hire a photographer later or just want to capture precious memories yourself, these tips will help you get the best possible images while keeping your baby safe and comfortable.
1. Use Natural Lighting Whenever Possible
Lighting is everything in photography, especially newborn photography. The great news is you don’t need studio lights to get beautiful images. A large window is your best friend.How to use natural light well:
Place your baby at a forty five degree angle to the window. This creates soft shadows that define their features naturally.
Turn off all overhead lights to avoid mixed color tones.
Make sure the light flows down the body from the head to the toes.
Avoid placing the baby directly in front of a window where light hits them straight on because this can create harsh shadows.
Soft window light gives newborn skin that dreamy creamy look you see in professional photos.
2. Keep Poses Simple and Natural
Newborn photography does not need complicated poses. In fact, when photographing your baby at home, simple is not only easier, it’s safer.
Some easy natural poses you can safely do include placing baby on their back on a soft blanket, swaddling them and placing them in a safe flat area, or laying them on their side with hands near their face. Baby resting on a parent’s chest also makes for beautiful lifestyle images.
These poses are timeless, beautiful, and don’t require advanced training.
3. Safety First Always
This is the most important part of newborn photography.
Certain poses you see online such as the froggy pose are not done safely without composite editing and an assistant supporting the baby the entire time. These poses should only be done by trained professionals.
Safety guidelines for at home newborn photos:
Never attempt advanced poses such as froggy, chin on hands, taco pose, or anything requiring balance.
Never place your baby on elevated props.
Ensure baby is always on a sturdy flat secured surface.
Always have an adult within arm’s reach at all times.
Keep any fabrics or props away from baby’s nose and mouth.
Warm the room, not the surface the baby is laying on.
Your baby’s safety is far more important than any pose or picture.
4. Always Shoot Down the Nose
This is a simple but game changing rule.
When photographing your newborn, position yourself so the camera is angled slightly above them rather than shooting up toward their face.
This avoids the unflattering up the nose angle and naturally defines their features. It also gives you a more professional, polished look.
5. Keep the Room Warm (74 Degrees or Higher)
Newborns love warmth and a warm environment helps keep them calm and sleepy which is essential for getting those smooth peaceful images.
Tips:
Set your thermostat to at least seventy four degrees.
Warm the room for twenty minutes before you start.
Keep extra blankets nearby.
If baby becomes fussy, swaddle them to help them feel secure.
A warm baby is a cooperative baby.
6. Feed Baby Right Before Your Session
A full belly works wonders.
Feeding right before you start helps create a sleepy content baby which gives you more time to photograph without frequent breaks.
Have everything set up in advance so once baby is fed, you can begin right away.
7. Keep Everything Simple. Less Is More
Newborn sessions don’t need multiple outfits, props, or busy backgrounds.
Stick to soft neutral blankets, a swaddle, a simple headband or hat if desired, and clean clutter free surroundings. Simplicity always photographs beautifully and keeps the focus on your baby.
Final Thoughts
While nothing fully replaces the experience, training, and equipment of a professional newborn photographer, you can still create meaningful beautiful images of your baby at home with the right preparation.
I understand the desire to capture these moments yourself because I once felt the same way. And I also understand what it’s like to look back and wish I had invested in professional photos. If you’re able, hiring a photographer is something you will never regret.
Call to Action
If you ever feel unsure, need help, or want guidance on photographing your newborn, you can always reach out to me. I’m happy to answer questions or offer support as you capture these priceless memories.
If you decide you want professional newborn photos, I offer three different package options so you can choose what fits your needs and budget best. I also offer payment plans, and booking early helps ensure the lowest monthly payment which is often the easiest option for many families. My studio is stocked with newborn outfits, wraps, gowns for moms and siblings and I take care of everything! I also offer in home sessions if you prefer to stay in the comfort of your home. I am always happy to send example photos of both types of sessions for you to compare.
Your baby’s newborn stage is so fleeting. Let’s make sure it’s photographed beautifully. If you’d like to chat or get on my schedule, I’m here to help.
