10 Expert Tips to Prepare Your Newborn for a Perfect Photo Shoot

Welcome to the charming world of newborn photography, where every tiny yawn, stretch, and sleepy smile is immortalized through the lens of a camera. As parents eagerly anticipate capturing these fleeting moments, preparing for a newborn photo shoot can seem daunting. But fear not! Meg Bowman Photography is here to guide you through every step, ensuring that your little one’s debut in front of the camera is as smooth as their cherubic cheeks. Embrace the following expert tips to guarantee those dreamy, angelic photos of your newborn.

1. Timing is Everything

For those serene sleeping baby photos, timing your shoot within the first 5-14 days of birth is key. During this time, newborns tend to sleep deeply and curl up naturally into those adorable womb-like poses.

2. Feed and Comfort

Ensure your baby is well-fed before the shoot. A satisfied baby equals a calm baby, more likely to doze off for those peaceful shots. Don’t forget the pacifier – if parents are open to it, it can be a lifesaver to help soothe your baby between poses.

3. Dressing Your Newborn

Choose outfits and accessories that are simple, timeless, and comfortable for your newborn. We love capturing some naked baby shots because it’s natural, but we also use outfits and wraps that are soft and gentle on your baby’s delicate skin. Avoid busy patterns and opt for soft, neutral colors to keep the focus on your baby’s natural beauty. Meg Bowman Photography provides an array of delicate, hand-picked props and outfits, ensuring your baby is picture-perfect. You can check out some of our favorite shops HERE for Newborn Session Outfits.

4. Maintain a Warm Environment

Babies are used to a toasty environment in the womb, so crank up the heat! A warm room will keep your newborn comfortable and more likely to sleep soundly during the shoot. However, it’s important to emphasize warming the room SAFELY.

5. Have Patience

Newborn photography is a delicate art. It requires time and patience to capture those perfect moments. Rest assured, Meg Bowman Photography embodies patience, allowing the natural magic of your baby’s first days to unfold beautifully on camera.

6. Sleep Beforehand

Try to keep your baby awake for a little while before the session to encourage sleep during the shoot. However, avoid over-tiring your newborn, as this might lead to fussiness.

7. Plan Breaks for Care

Expect regular pauses for diaper changes and feedings. These breaks help keep your newborn content and the session stress-free.

8. The Right Lighting

Natural light creates the softest, most flattering glow for newborn photographs. Each session at our studio is scheduled to optimize the use of natural light, ensuring those gentle, airy images that parents adore.

9. Safety First

Ensuring the safety of your precious newborn during a photography session is not just a priority for us—it’s our unwavering commitment. It’s crucial to hire a professional photographer who not only captures beautiful images but also understands the delicate intricacies of handling newborns. Here’s why:

1. Understanding Poses: Certain poses seen in newborn photography may look effortless, but they often require a skilled hand to achieve safely. Professionals know how to position newborns in ways that are both aesthetically pleasing and safe.
2. Regulation of Room Temperature: Professional photographers ensure the room is safely warmed to keep your baby cozy and relaxed during the session. They understand newborns’ need for warmth, preventing overheating and discomfort by monitoring temperature levels closely.
3. Differentiating Composites from Real Poses: In some newborn photography, what appears to be a single image may actually be a composite of multiple shots. This technique is often used to achieve certain poses safely without putting the baby at risk. Professionals know when and how to use composites, ensuring that your baby is never put in compromising positions for the sake of a photo.
4. Prioritizing Safety: Professional newborn photographers prioritize your baby’s safety, undergoing extensive training in safety protocols. They’re equipped to handle any situation, using supportive props and safe posing techniques to ensure your baby is always comfortable and secure.

At Meg Bowman Photography, your baby’s safety is our top priority. You can trust us to handle your newborn with the utmost care and professionalism, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience knowing that your little one is in safe hands.