Taking photos of newborns in their homes, instead of in my photo studio or elsewhere, is actually one of my favorite parts of newborn photography. Although studios are often well-equipped for taking pictures, you might be surprised if I tell you that some homes have studio-standard lighting and wallpapers, making them suitable for in-home newborn photography.
Besides these factors, people, including newborns, are often more relaxed and comfortable in their own homes. This, of course, won’t prevent the baby from being fussy during the photo shoot, but it can lead to genuine and heartwarming photographs that reflect the baby’s true personality and the unique bond of the family.
That said, whether you are a professional newborn photographer or a photography enthusiast desiring to capture some beautiful newborn photos at home, here are my top tips for in-home newborn photography that you can rely on:
1. Take the photos when the baby is still in the newborn stage
The best time to capture newborn photos is within the first 5 to 14 days of the baby’s life. It’s important to note that this timing isn’t influenced by the shooting location. If you want to pose the newborn in a variety of ways, you should consider taking the photos while the baby is still in the newborn stage.
At this stage, the baby is still very flexible and sleepy, making it ideal for newborn photography at home or even in the photo studio.
2. Choose a perfect location in the home for the photoshoot
Look for any area or spot in the room with soft light, simple backgrounds, and settings for the photoshoot. This could be the backyard, the living room, or even the newborn’s room.
A quick tip: Work within only the space allocated to you. Don’t roam around the house looking for the perfect spot for the picture. If the space assigned to you is not good enough, simply let the newborn’s parents know and let them find a better place for you.
3. Timing is everything
Timing is one of the most important things to consider when planning a newborn in-home photography. According to experts at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health, newborns sleep a total of 8 to 9 hours during the day and about 8 hours at night.
So, if you want to capture sweet pictures of the newborn while it’s awake, an early morning photo session right before breakfast could be the best time. Conversely, if you want to capture the newborn sleeping, right after breakfast could be the perfect time.
Note: Every newborn is unique and special. Thus, I highly recommend you communicate with their parents to know when the baby is usually awake or asleep.
4. Keep everything simple
Newborns are beautiful on their own, so you don’t need many props or elaborate setups. Simplicity is key in newborn photography. If you must use any material, I’d suggest soft, natural-colored blankets, wraps, and fabrics. This will make the newborn portraits appear cozy and timeless.
5. Get your camera settings right
Like I always say, there are no specific camera settings for newborn photography in-home or any form of photography due to differences in location, subjects, and equipment. However, I suggest you start with a lower ISO, a wide aperture, and a mid-range shutter speed, depending on the lighting condition and your desired effects. And do not forget to shoot in RAW format.
6. Capture the details
Newborns grow quickly, so capture all the tiny details – tiny fingers, toes, ears, and facial expressions. Furthermore, consider getting down on your knees to capture close-up shots of the baby’s face and body.
7. Take shots of the newborn with family members
One of the advantages of home newborn photography over studio sessions is that it allows for creative family portraits, sometimes, even with the grandparents, who might not be able to follow the newborn and others to the studio due to old age.
Furthermore, it also provides an opportunity to include neighbors and well-wishers in the frame. So, instead of focusing on the newborn alone, also take shots of the parents, siblings, neighbors, and well-wishers present during the photo shoot.
8. Be patient
Newborn photography can be mentally challenging, regardless of how long you have been in the niche. Unlike adults, newborns can’t pose or move themselves, and they might cry aloud when you try to move or pose them in certain ways. So, learn to be patient with them!
9. Don’t hesitate to ask for help
As I mentioned earlier, newborn photography can be mentally challenging, so you will need to get as much help as possible. You will need help calming the baby, setting up your gadgets, and other things. So don’t hesitate to call out to the parents if you need assistance with anything. Asking for help when taking in-home newborn photos won’t make you less professional.