For preserving the precious memories of a baby’s first days, a high-quality photoshoot by a professional photographer is still the best option. However, as any baby photographer in Vancouver can attest, it isn’t always possible for parents to set it up in time.
With the helpful guide we’ve put together, even parents with no behind-the-camera experience can get great results from their DIY photography efforts:
1. Timing is Key
A baby’s first days at home are often ideal for photoshoots. As they’re asleep for the better part of the day, swaddling them and placing them in eye-catching locations in the house becomes quite easy.
As long as you’re not too noisy about it, you’ll get plenty of time to adjust poses, add in props, and consider (or reconsider) the backdrop. The first week or two are also great for capturing newborn traits: wrinkly skin, tiny fists, even tinier toes – you get the picture.
If you want your photos to show off a bit of spontaneity, consider waiting for about 2 months.
At that point, babies become more active and curious about their environment, so they can easily be photographed while stretching, focusing on an object or person, and moving their limbs.
2. Keeping it Simple
Professional baby photographers like us have years of practice and many hours of photoshoots behind us. That’s how we get babies in the perfect poses, shot after shot.
Remember that part of the charm & appeal of a DIY, at-home setup is how different it is to professional photoshoots. Lean into this as your plan the poses and put together the photoshoot for your baby.
For best results, remember to work with natural light (but not direct sunlight), and keep the props and other elaborate ideas to a minimum.
3. Safety Measures
Whether in the studio, at home, or elsewhere, a baby’s safety is the most important thing.
If you’ve got pets, no matter how well-behaved, they shouldn’t be left unattended with the baby. Remember that your pet is used to your presence and that of your other kids, whereas babies are new and unfamiliar.
If you’re using a professional camera, and photographing the baby from above at high angles, take the necessary precautions. Put the camera on a strap that can go around your neck.
If you’re using cell phones, consider using a PopSocket or another accessory to improve grip.
4. Getting the Family Involved
Have your partner and kids there, not just to help, but also to participate in the photoshoot.
Note that toddlers and younger children can be naturally restless, and not particularly keen on taking direction, so try not to get them to pose your way.
Instead, keep your camera at the ready and capture the natural interaction between your other kids and the new baby.
Lastly, don’t forget to set up a timer or get a tripod, and take plenty of pictures of yourself and your partner with your bundle of joy!
At Artin Photography, we have years of experience in newborn baby photography in Vancouver. Contact us today to set up an appointment for newborn baby photoshoots!