Newborn Portraits

Taking the perfect newborn portraits can be tricky, but with a little knowledge and good timing, you can have beautiful pictures of your infant.

Even if you are pretty handy with a camera, you may want to turn to a professional for the best possible newborn portraits. With so many photographers out there, however, how do you know where to go?

• Money Matters. If money isn't an issue, then skip right over this part. If you are like the majority of parents, however, money can be a deterrent when commissioning a photographer. Before you schedule a sitting, ask about package deals and specials that may be offered at certain times. Be sure you get a detailed account of the total price, including sitting fees, before you commit to a photo session for your newborn.
• Picture Perfect. Visit the photographer, and ask to see examples of his work. He should have a portfolio on hand that includes examples of the same types of photos you are interested in for your own child.
• Word of Mouth. You probably know several other parents who have already used a photographer, so don't be afraid to ask for their recommendations.

The photographer is responsible for taking great photos, but some of that responsibility falls on your shoulders as well. Once you decide upon the photographer you want for your child's newborn portraits, consider the following tips:

• Plan wisely. If you know your baby typically eats around 12:00 p.m. and then takes a nap, don't schedule a photo session for that time. If you do, you'll end up with a cranky infant who won't cooperate. Instead, shoot for a time when your baby will be rested and satisfied.
• Don't pressure your baby. This is advice that the photographer should follow as well. Take some time to relax your baby, maybe even trying a little infant massage if necessary. If the photographer seems impatient to begin the session and you are still in the midst of calming your little one, maybe it's time to find a new photographer. A good photo session may take an hour or more.
• Don't let yourself be talked into something you don't really want. While there may be some excellent package deals available, if you find yourself being talked into an excessive amount of pictures that you won't use, stand firm. The photo session shouldn't be a sales pitch; it should be all about preserving precious memories of your child!
• Choose your baby's clothing carefully. Frilly dresses and starched shirts can be constricting and irritating to a newborn's skin. Instead, consider dressing your baby in simple cotton gowns, t-shirts, and just a plain cloth diaper!
• Don't rule out black and white photos. You might also want to consider sepia as an option for a timeless look.
• Make your appointments as early as possible. If you've chosen a popular photographer, you may have trouble getting in. Make those appointments early if you want to have pictures in the first week or so of your baby's birth.

Whether you choose to have a professional photographer take newborn portraits or not, you'll still want to take plenty of your own pictures as well. Keep the following tips in mind:

• Choose a time when baby is most content. You'll know in a matter of days what makes your baby happy and content, and this is the best time to take those photos.
• Use natural light. A newborn's eyes are sensitive. She may not be able to open her eyes in bright lighting, so choose a time of day when you can use natural lighting if possible. Turn your flash off as well. If you do need artificial lighting, use soft bulbs to lessen the brightness.
• Get on baby's level. While you may shoot some pictures from above, try to take several while you are down on baby's level.
• Focus on small parts. Every picture doesn't have to focus on all of your baby. Try taking pictures of just his tiny hand or foot, a side view of his face, etc.
• Take a few sleeping baby pictures. Nothing is more precious than a sleeping baby.
• Create a backdrop. You can do this with a simple white sheet or black piece of material. Try to eliminate a lot of clutter or conflicting patterns in the background. The focus should be on your precious baby!
• Take lots of pictures! This is the beauty of digital photography. Take as many photos as you want and develop only the ones you like!

Are you working on a scrapbook of your baby's first year? Visit LoveToKnow Scrapbooking for ideas and inspiration to help you create a baby album that's guaranteed to become a treasured family keepsake.

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