Tips for DIY at home newborn session

While we are all doing our part during this pandemic of 2020 and staying at home, life still continues. Although family and event sessions can be rescheduled, babies are being born daily. As much as I wish I can come to the comfort of your home to capture this precious time for you, sadly I cannot safely do that.

That is why I want to give you some tips on how to photograph your own baby at home!

Tip #1 -Your Gear

If you have a “real” camera at home you can photograph in automatic settings, that is if you don’t know your manual yet. If not, don’t fret- these days Iphone can take great photos as well.

Tip #2 Safety

Never leave your newborn unattended from places they can fall or use a prop that can be dangerous. Always have someone close to the baby when you are taking photos with a sibling or a fur animal. Don’t try to replicate any poses that a licenced photographer uses as they can potentially harm your child.

Tip #3 Time

The time of day matters a lot. Try to time your DIY session after the baby has been fed as they are the happiest. Set up your areas first, feed the baby-then take photos.

Tip #4 Light

Very important - turn off all overhead lights! Artificial light is not flattering - we need only the window light. Open up your shades, make the rooms you are taking photos in as bright as possible. If it’s a gloomy or rainy day, wait for a nice bright sunny day to take photos. Best time for photos is 10am-2pm as that is when the sun is high in the sky and does not produce any harsh light within your home.

Tip #5 Keep It Simple

I believe that your baby is perfect just the way they are! Let their features take the center stage. Use neutral colors for blankets, swaddles and outfits. Neutral colors create the best photos. Think simple and classic, when it comes to your own bedding, their and your clothes.

Tip#6 What To Photograph

1. The baby alone. Use your bedroom or the crib for those photos. Get close. Take detail shots of little feet, hands in a swaddle, etc. Place their head towards thewindow for the best light source.

2. Feeding routine. Whether you’re nursing or bottle feeding, capture that moment. Face towards the window if the light isn’t great.

3. Get Mama in the shot. Even if you don’t look or feel your best right after giving birth, you will be glad having these photos later on.

4. Get your partner AND your fur babies in the shot.

5. Whole Family. Use a self timer to get the whole family in the photo. The bedroom is the easiest place to do that, as you can use a dresser or another piece of furniture to prop up your camera. Try not to look at the camera, but instead look at your sweet babe - it’ll look more natural.

Don’t stress, try to enjoy taking these photos, if they don’t come out the best- try again the next day. You don’t have to do this in the first week of being home. I’ve photographed babies even up to 6 week mark.