Everything You Need to Know about Newborn Photoshoot

Timing is crucial when it comes to newborn photography. Newborns are at their sleepiest and most cooperative within the first two weeks of life. During this period, babies tend to sleep for longer periods, making it easier to position them for various poses without much fuss. Additionally, they still have that curled-up position reminiscent of their time in the womb, which lends itself well to artistic and heartwarming photographs.

It’s best to schedule your newborn photoshoot shortly after your baby’s birth. Contact a professional photographer during your pregnancy to secure a spot around the time of your due date. Since babies often arrive on their own schedule, photographers usually leave some flexibility around their booking to accommodate for any changes.

For a newborn photoshoot, the focus is primarily on the baby. However, choosing the right attire can enhance the overall aesthetic of the photographs.

For Parents: It’s a good idea to wear neutral and timeless clothing that won’t distract from the baby. Soft, solid colors or muted tones work well. Avoid busy patterns or logos that might draw attention away from the main subject.
For Baby: During the shoot, your baby might be dressed in a simple diaper or a cute onesie that complements the backdrop and any props used. Wrapping techniques can also add to the charm of the images.

Newborn photoshoot by Villa, Localgrapher in Manassas

Wrapping can serve multiple purposes during a newborn photoshoot. It helps keep the baby cozy, secure, and often sleepy, allowing for smoother posing. It can also create visually pleasing textures and lines in the photographs. Here’s a basic guide to wrapping a newborn:

1. Choose the Fabric: Opt for soft, breathable, and stretchy fabric like muslin or jersey cotton. Make sure it’s not too thick or restrictive.
2. Start with a Diaper and Blanket: Begin by laying the baby on a flat surface with a clean diaper. Place a blanket diagonally, leaving one corner exposed.
3. Position the Baby: Gently lay the baby with their shoulders just above the exposed corner of the blanket. Their head should be turned slightly to one side.
4. Secure the Arms: Take the corner of the blanket near the baby’s head and fold it over one arm, tucking it under their back. Repeat with the other arm.
5. Wrap the Body: Fold the bottom corner of the blanket up over the baby’s feet and tuck it under their back, ensuring their hips have room to move naturally.
6. Finishing Touches: Adjust the fabric to ensure the baby’s comfort and mobility. You can leave the legs uncovered for some shots or wrap them as well.

Posing a newborn requires a delicate touch and an emphasis on safety. Always prioritize the baby’s comfort and well-being. Here are some classic newborn photoshoot poses:

1. The “Womb” Pose: Position the baby on their side with their legs tucked close to their body, resembling the fetal position.
2. The “Froggy” Pose: This pose requires careful handling. Gently position the baby’s hands under their chin, creating a “frog-like” pose. Support the baby’s head at all times, and consider creating the illusion of the pose through editing if needed.
3. The “Tushy Up” Pose: Lay the baby on their belly, tucking their knees under their body and lifting their tush slightly. Support their head and ensure their airways are clear.
4. Parent Interaction: Including parents in the photoshoot adds a heartwarming touch. Capture tender moments like parents cradling the baby’s head or hands, or gently kissing their forehead.