DIY Newborn Photography
- 1). Set up your lighting. Choose a main light source and a back light. The main source can be a large lamp, or sunlight coming through a window. It shines over the scene of the photograph, covering the baby in light. The back light is a small source set behind the baby to prevent unwanted shadows. Use a small lamp for the back light and experiment putting it over and under the baby to see what produces the best effect with the main light.
- 2). Set up the backdrop. Place your baby in a crib with an attractive blanket, on bed of soft pillows or on another comfortable surface that will keep her happy throughout the shoot. Turn on the lighting sources to make sure your backdrop looks good with the light.
- 3). Make the newborn as comfortable as possible. Newborns like to be wrapped up and warmer than normal, a state that mimics being in the mother's womb. If you want a photograph where she is not so bundled up, warm the room with a space heater.
- 4). Take pictures with your baby first. The baby's mother or father holds him as another person snaps the photographs. Cradle the baby in your arms or hold him on your shoulder. The baby becomes comfortable and relaxed while you test out the lighting, backdrop and camera.
- 5). Take closeups of the baby. A baby's body is small and fragile compared to an adult's, and this contrast brings a tender and endearing aspect to a photograph. Place your hand next to the baby's hand and snap a closeup of the comparison. Repeat this for the face, legs or feet.
- 6). Take half-body and full body shots of the baby. Experiment with different tones, such as black and white, sepia or full color. Play with shadows by moving your lighting sources around the room, providing shade or placing parts of the baby's body in shadows.
- 7). Pose your baby. Newborns don't move much in their first few weeks. Gently move their hands, arms and legs into an attractive position and snap photos quickly. If a newborn is uncomfortable in a certain pose, she will certainly move herself.
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