7 Tips for Posing Newborns for Professional Photography Results

​As parents, we often find ourselves wanting to freeze time and capture every tiny detail of our precious little ones. That’s where professional newborn photography comes in, turning those fleeting moments into timeless treasures. 

Whether you’re a parent eager to document the early days of your bundle of joy or a photographer aiming to perfect the art of newborn posing, this blog post is your guide to achieving picture-perfect results. 

We’ll walk you through seven simple yet invaluable tips that will make the process smoother, ensuring those adorable newborn photos you’ve been dreaming of. From understanding the importance of patience to discovering the art of creating cozy setups, we’ve got you covered. 

Let’s embark on this journey together and learn how to capture the innocence and sweetness of newborns in every frame. After all, these early days are as precious as they come, and with the right tips, you can turn them into memories that last a lifetime.

1. Use Props to Enhance the Shot

​If you want to take great newborn photos, one of the best things you can do is to use props to enhance the shot.

Props can help to add interest and variety to your photos, and they can also be used to help baby feel more comfortable and relaxed. Here are some tips on how to use props to get the best results:

1. Choose props that complement the setting. If you’re taking photos indoors, look for props that will help to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Knitted blankets, plush toys, and baskets are all great options. If you’re taking photos outdoors, look for props that will help to highlight the natural beauty of your surroundings. Driftwood, flowers, and leaves are all great choices.

2. Use props to add interest. Props can help to add visual interest to your photos, and they can also be used to help tell a story. If you’re taking a portrait of baby, consider using a prop that will help to show off their personality. A favorite toy, a special blanket, or a piece of jewelry can all be great choices.

3. Use props to help baby feel comfortable. If baby is feeling fussy, try using a prop to help them relax. A soft stuffed animal or a favorite blanket can often do the trick.

4. Be careful not to overdo it. When it comes to props, less is usually more. Choose one or two props that you think will enhance the shot, and then let the rest of the scene come together naturally.

By following these tips, you can use props to help take your newborn photos to the next level.

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2. Incorporate Natural Poses

​If you’re on the hunt for some newborn photography tips, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we’ll be discussing how to incorporate natural poses into your newborn photography.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when posing a newborn is to make sure that they are comfortable. This means that you should avoid any positions that may put unnecessary pressure on their tiny bodies.

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One way to achieve this is by using props such as blankets, towels, or bean bags. This will help to support their weight and keep them comfortable.

Another tip is to keep the poses relatively simple. This will help to avoid any potential accidents or uncomfortable positions.

Some of our favorite natural newborn poses include:

1. The tummy time pose

This pose is perfect for when your little one is awake and alert. Simply place them on their tummy on a soft surface such as a blanket or towel. You can also prop up their head with a small pillow if needed.

2. The cozy chained pose

This pose is perfect for when your newborn is feeling a bit fussy. Simply wrap them up snugly in a blanket or towel, making sure that their head is supported. You can then gently rock them back and forth until they fall asleep.

3. The side-lying pose

This is a great pose for when your newborn is starting to get a bit restless. Simply lie them down on their side on a soft surface. You can then prop up their head with a small pillow or blanket.

4. The superman pose

This is a fun and unique pose that is perfect for when your newborn is feeling playful. Simply lay them down on their back and raise their legs and arms up in the air, as if they are flying like superman!

5. The froggy pose

This is a cute and quirky pose that is perfect for when your newborn is feeling a bit fussy. Simply lay them down on their back and then bring their legs up towards their chest, as if they are in the fetal position.

We hope you found these tips helpful! If you’re looking for more newborn photography inspiration, be sure to check out our Pinterest board.

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3. Get Creative with Angles

As a photographer, one of the things you learn early on is the importance of angles. Not only do angles help to create a more interesting composition, but they can also help to flatter your subject. 

When it comes to newborn photography, this is especially important. Not only do you want to capture the perfect image of your new little one, but you want to make sure they look good too!

There are a few different ways you can go about getting creative with angles when posing a newborn for photography. One is to simply vary the angle at which you take the photo.

Instead of always shooting from eye level, try getting down low for a more intimate shot or shooting from above for a more whimsical perspective.

Another way to get creative with angles is to experiment with different positions. Instead of always keeping your newborn in the traditional cradle hold, try holding them in different ways. You can even prop them up on their side or tummy (with supervision, of course!) to get a different look.

Finally, don’t be afraid to move around and experiment with different angles and positions. The best way to figure out what works is to just get in there and try things out! So go ahead and get creative – your newborn (and your photos) will thank you for it.

4. Take Advantage of Natural Light

When it comes to newborn photography, one of the most important things that you can do is take advantage of natural light. This means that you should avoid using flash as much as possible and instead try to find a location that has good natural light.

One of the best ways to take advantage of natural light is to shoot outdoors. This can be done either in your own backyard or at a local park. If you do choose to shoot outdoors, it is important to find a place that is not too sunny and not too shady.

You also want to make sure that there is not too much wind, as this can make it difficult to keep the newborn still.

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Another great way to take advantage of natural light is to shoot near a window. If you are shooting indoors, you can set up your newborn near a window that gets good light during the day. Just be sure to turn off any overhead lights so that you do not get any unwanted shadows in your photo.

Finally, if you are shooting in a studio, you can always bring in some additional light sources such as lamps or even Christmas lights to help add some extra light to your photo. Just be sure to not overdo it, as too much light can be just as bad as too little light.

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5. Position the Baby in a Flattering Manner

​Newborns are so precious and fragile, and they make such beautiful subjects for photographs! Here are some tips on how to position a newborn for photography in a flattering manner:

1. First and foremost, always make sure the baby is safe and comfortable. Use pillows to support the baby’s head and back, and be careful not to jostle them too much.

2. For a classic newborn pose, try swaddling the baby and then positioning them on their side with their head propped up on a pillow. This is a very sweet and serene pose that captures the innocence of a newborn.

3. For a more playful pose, try sitting the baby up and propping them up with pillows. Then, arrange their arms and legs in a cute, whimsical position. This is a great way to show off the baby’s personality!

4. Another classic pose is the “newborn froggy” pose. To achieve this pose, simply position the baby on their tummy on a pillow, and then gently press down on their back to make their legs and arms “frog-like.” This is a very adorable pose that is sure to get lots of “oohs” and “ahs!”

5. And finally, one of the most popular newborn poses is the “baby in a basket” pose. Simply place the baby in a basket or other similar container (make sure it is sturdy and safe!) and position them however you like. This is a great way to show off the baby’s cute little outfit, and it makes for a very unique photo.

6. Experiment with Different Final Touch-Ups

​Newborn photography is all about capturing those first few weeks of a baby’s life. And while there are plenty of articles out there on how to capture the perfect newborn photo, there aren’t as many on what to do once you’ve taken the photo. This is where final touches come in.

There are a few things you can do to make your newborn photos really stand out. Experiment with different final touches and see which ones work best for you and your style.

One final touch you can try is adding a vignette. This is when you darken the edges of the photo, making the center of the photo really stand out. This is a great way to add a bit of drama to your photos.

Another final touch you can add is a bit of grain. This can give your photos a more vintage look. Be careful not to add too much, as it can also make your photos look noisy.

If you want to keep things simple, you can also just try increasing the contrast or vibrance of your photos. This will make the colors really pop and can help to bring out details that might otherwise be lost.

Finally, one last thing you can do is to crop your photos. This can be a great way to change the composition of your photo and to focus on a particular subject.

So experiment with different final touches and see which ones work best for you. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to take stunning newborn photos that you and your family will cherish for years to come.

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Posing Newborns for Professional Photography Results

7. Utilize Professional Editing Tools for the Finishing Touches

There are many factors to consider when creating a beautiful newborn photography session. One important factor is utilizing professional editing tools to give your images the final touches. Here are some tips on how to use professional editing tools to create stunning newborn photos:

1. Use a professional photo editing software. There are many great software programs available, such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Aperture. Each program has its own set of features and applications. Choose the program that you feel most comfortable using and that will best suit your needs.

2. Experiment with the editing tools. Take some time to play around with the different features of the software. Get familiar with the various tools and learn what each one does. This will help you get a feel for how the program works and what it can do.

3. Edit your photos. Once you have a good understanding of the software, you can begin editing your photos. Start with small edits, such as adjusting the exposure or white balance. Once you get the hang of it, you can move on to more complex edits, such as retouching skin or adding artistic effects.

4. Save your edited photos. Once you are happy with the results, save your edited photos to your computer. You can then print them out, share them online, or use them in a professional portfolio.

Utilizing professional editing tools can help you take your newborn photography to the next level. With a little practice, you can create stunning photos that you will be proud to share with family and friends.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, if you follow these seven tips, you will be well on your way to taking beautiful, professional newborn photographs. Posing newborns can be challenging, but with a little patience and practice, you will be able to get the perfect shot every time.

I hope this article has given you some helpful tips on how to pose newborns for beautiful, professional photographs. Remember to be patient, take your time, and have fun!

FAQs

What is the best age to photograph a newborn?

Ideally, newborns are best photographed within the first two weeks of life. During this time, they tend to sleep more soundly and can be easily posed into those adorable curled-up positions.

How do I keep a newborn calm during a photoshoot?

Creating a comfortable and warm environment is key. Keep the room temperature cozy, use soft blankets, and play soothing music. Also, schedule the session during a time when the baby is naturally sleepy, such as after a feeding.

Can I include family members in the newborn photoshoot?

Absolutely! Including family members in the photos adds a personal touch. Ensure that everyone is dressed in coordinating colors and keep the atmosphere relaxed and joyful to capture genuine moments.

What are some essential newborn posing safety tips?

Safety should always be the top priority. Support the baby’s head and neck during posing, avoid putting them in precarious positions, and never leave them unattended, even for a moment. Always prioritize comfort and safety over elaborate poses.

How can I achieve those adorable curled-up poses?

Patience is key. Wait for the baby to fall into a deep sleep before attempting intricate poses. Use soft and flexible materials to support their delicate bodies, and always be gentle in your movements.

Are there specific props that work best for newborn photography?

Simple and soft props are ideal. Consider using wraps, blankets, and baskets to create a cozy and timeless look. Avoid props that could potentially overwhelm the baby or distract from their natural beauty.

 

Lauren Alisse is not just a professional photographer; she's a visual storyteller with an unwavering passion for freezing moments in time. From the delicate dance of natural light to the intricate details that define emotions, Lauren's lens is a window into the beauty of life's narratives.

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