Thinking About Photographing Your Newborn

Photographing your newborn is an exciting and emotional experience, capturing those first precious moments that you’ll cherish forever. However, as you embark on this journey, it’s essential to manage your expectations and prepare for the unexpected. Here’s a detailed guide on what not to expect when photographing your newborn.

1. Do Not Expect a Schedule

Newborns are unpredictable. They don’t adhere to schedules, and their moods can change rapidly. Expecting to follow a strict timetable for your photo session can lead to frustration. Be prepared for feeding, diaper changes, and naps to interrupt your plans. Flexibility is key.

2. Do Not Expect a Wide Awake Baby

While you might have envisioned capturing your newborn’s bright eyes, most newborns spend a significant portion of their day sleeping. Don’t be disappointed if your baby sleeps through the entire session. In fact, some of the most serene and beautiful newborn photos are taken while the baby is peacefully asleep.

3. Do Not Expect Immediate Cooperation

Newborns can be uncooperative subjects. They might cry, fuss, or be uncomfortable in certain positions. It’s crucial to remain patient and calm. The baby will sense your stress, which can make the situation worse. Allow the baby to dictate the pace of the session.

4. Do Not Expect Perfection in Every Shot

Perfection is a myth when it comes to photographing newborns. There will be moments when the baby’s expression isn’t ideal, or they might move just as you press the shutter. Embrace the imperfections and remember that these candid, authentic moments often make for the most cherished memories.

5. Do Not Expect to Use All Your Props and Outfits

You might have a vision of using multiple props and outfits, but newborns have limited tolerance for costume changes and being moved around. It’s better to have a few key items and outfits in mind and see how the session progresses. Too many changes can upset the baby and cut the session short.

6. Do Not Expect the Baby to Pose Naturally

Newborns don’t naturally pose. They curl up in the fetal position or stretch out as they feel comfortable. Professional newborn photographers use gentle guidance to position the baby safely. If you’re doing it yourself, focus on capturing the baby in natural, comfortable poses rather than trying to force a specific look.

7. Do Not Expect Immediate Results

Photographing a newborn requires patience and time. Don’t expect to get the perfect shot right away. Be prepared to take many photos to capture a few great ones. It’s a process that can take hours, with breaks in between for feeding and comforting the baby.

8. Do Not Expect Ideal Lighting Conditions

Natural light is best for newborn photography, but it can be unpredictable. Clouds, time of day, and the position of windows in your home all affect lighting. Have some portable lighting options available, but don’t stress if conditions aren’t perfect. Work with what you have and embrace the natural look.

9. Do Not Expect the Baby to Be Comfortable in Every Setting

Newborns are sensitive to their surroundings. They may not like being placed on cold surfaces or in unfamiliar environments. Ensure the baby is warm and comfortable throughout the session. Use soft, warm fabrics and keep the room at a comfortable temperature.

10. Do Not Expect All Family Members to Cooperate

Including siblings and pets in newborn photos can be adorable, but it adds another layer of unpredictability. Young children might not want to sit still, and pets can be unpredictable. Have a plan, but be prepared for spontaneity. Sometimes, the candid moments of interaction between family members are the most heartwarming.

11. Do Not Expect to Get the Shot You’ve Seen on Pinterest

It’s easy to get inspired by the beautiful, polished images on Pinterest and Instagram, but these photos often involve professional photographers, ideal conditions, and sometimes even digital editing. Aim for capturing genuine, heartfelt moments rather than recreating someone else’s staged shot.

12. Do Not Expect a Spotless Environment

Babies are messy. Between spit-up, diaper changes, and general baby mess, your environment might not stay pristine. Don’t stress over keeping everything spotless. Focus on the baby and the moments rather than the surroundings. You can always crop out or edit minor messes later.

13. Do Not Expect a Silent Session

Newborn sessions are rarely silent. There will be crying, cooing, and possibly a few unhappy sounds. Accept the noise as part of the experience. Some photographers even recommend playing soft music or white noise to soothe the baby.

14. Do Not Expect to Have Full Control

As much as you might want to control every aspect of the session, it’s important to let go and allow the baby to guide you. Follow their cues and work around their needs. This approach not only makes for a more enjoyable experience but also results in more authentic photos.

15. Do Not Expect to Avoid Post-Processing

Even with the best intentions and careful planning, post-processing is often necessary to achieve the final look you desire. Whether it’s adjusting lighting, cropping, or removing minor imperfections, don’t hesitate to edit your photos. Many professional photographers spend significant time in post-processing to perfect their images.

16. Do Not Expect to Remember Every Detail

In the excitement and chaos of a newborn photo session, it’s easy to forget the little things. Make a checklist beforehand to ensure you have all the props, outfits, and equipment you need. This helps keep the session organized and reduces stress.

17. Do Not Expect Instant Gratification

The process of photographing your newborn and then editing the photos takes time. Don’t expect to see the finished product immediately. Enjoy the journey and be patient. The end result will be worth the wait.

18. Do Not Expect to Do It All Alone

If possible, enlist the help of a partner, family member, or friend. Having an extra pair of hands can make a big difference in soothing the baby, adjusting props, or simply offering moral support. Don’t hesitate to ask for help to make the process smoother.

19. Do Not Expect to Capture Everything

It’s impossible to capture every moment and detail. Focus on getting a few key shots that you’ll treasure. Remember, you can always have more photo sessions as your baby grows and changes.

20. Do Not Expect to Forget the Experience

Lastly, while the photos are important, the experience itself is memorable. Savor the time spent with your newborn, the quiet moments, and even the challenging ones. These are the first of many memories you’ll create together.

In conclusion, photographing your newborn is a beautiful experience filled with unexpected moments. By managing your expectations and embracing the unpredictable nature of working with a newborn, you’ll be able to capture authentic, heartfelt photos that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Remember, the goal is to document the essence of your newborn’s early days, not to achieve perfection. learn More