The Art and Challenge of Photographing Newborns
Photographing newborns is one of the most rewarding yet challenging tasks a photographer can undertake. These tiny subjects have a mind of their own, and when they decide they are unhappy or hungry, everything comes to a halt. Despite the challenges, capturing those precious first moments is a cherished art form that I love. Each newborn session is filled with its own set of secrets and techniques to ensure a successful session. I’m going to share some of them with you.
The Importance of a Cozy Environment
One of the key trade secrets for a successful newborn session is maintaining a warm and cozy environment. Babies need to feel warm to stay asleep, so having the room at 80+ degrees is essential. In the wintertime, parents are usually more than happy to turn up the heat, creating a snug and comfortable atmosphere. However, in the summer, it can be a bit more challenging. No one wants to walk around in sweltering heat inside their home, but this warmth is crucial for keeping a newborn relaxed and sleepy.
White Noise
Babies are soothed by white noise. I have an app on my phone that I use throughout the session to help drown out siblings and other distractions that may startle your newborn out of their deep sleep. You may notice that the sound of the vacuum is also soothing for your baby. Keep that in mind for those rough mornings!
Timing is Everything
Another vital aspect of a successful newborn photography session is timing. It’s best to schedule your session during the first two weeks of your baby’s life. During this period, newborns are generally sleepier and less likely to startle. This makes it easier to pose them and capture those adorable, serene shots that you will cherish forever.
Ryan’s Newborn Session
I recently had the pleasure of photographing little Ryan, who was a fantastic sleeper throughout his session. His peaceful demeanor allowed me to capture some truly adorable and heartwarming portraits. Ryan’s session turned out beautifully, capturing his innocence and the tender early days of his life. As seasoned parents know, these sleepy newborn moments are fleeting. I was honored to be a part of preserving these precious moments for his family.
Final Thoughts
Photographing newborns requires incredible patience and skill. Keeping the room warm, soothing white noise, and scheduling the session within the first two weeks of life are just a couple of techniques that can make all the difference. The rewards of capturing these adorable portraits, and a few baby snuggles along the way, make every newborn session a day that I look forward to!
If you are looking for a newborn photographer, I’d be thrilled to capture beautiful portraits of your little one’s first days. Please reserve your session a few months before your due date, so I can ensure you have a spot in my schedule. I am looking forward to meeting your newest addition!
Pamela Lepold is a Northern Virginia Photographer, located in Fairfax, VA, who has been capturing newborns, families, weddings and events in the VA, MD, and DC area for over 2 decades.
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