Capture Innocence With Newborn Portraits

Nothing quite captures innocence as much as a portrait of a newborn. A scrunched-up face all wrapped up in woolies with a frown on its face, ah who can resist a new-born baby. And watching newborn portraits really makes one reflect on the beauty of life and appreciate it much more. But snapping newborn portraits is not for the impatient. There are arguments aplenty on whether one should go about snapping newborn portraits or wait till the baby has grown up given the fact that it would be subjected to harsh lights and the glare of a camera. Though most people think babies should not be snapped at such a tender age, it is relatively easy since babies are pliant at that tender age. Also remember babies, at times, tend to develop skin conditions after 2-3 weeks.

Tricky though the task is, a little preparation should help one get some great newborn portraits. Though one could hire a professional photographer, even novices can take excellent newborn portraits provided they take care of a few things.

Decide on the backdrop. Usually a wall would be preferable but place a table cloth or sheet against the wall and leave some space. Some people prefer newborn portraits to show the dad/mom/relative holding the fondling in their arms, take adequate precautions. Have something soft plopped on the floor or bed where you plan to shoot the photos. Have the baby wearing solid colors and not light colors as this gives the baby a rosier look. Try not to have too many props in the photo because it would take the focus away from the baby. That said, certain baby-related items can always be used - a stuffed teddy bear, a blanket, a pacifier or anything else that is personal.

Before you start taking newborn portraits ensure that all the required items are ready and so is the background. Most people prefer mother and newborn shots, while some prefer posing only the newborn wrapped in a blanket, or cuddled on a bed or snuggled into a sofa. Close up shots of the baby’s head, bonny arms and legs are some popular options. Also, if close up shots are being snapped ensure the baby’s private parts are not projected in the photo. Having pets pose with a newborn is not a very good idea though it makes for an excellent newborn portrait. It is always better to wait till the baby has grown up and the pet has got used to the idea of a newborn now taking its parents’ attention.