Innocence personified

Remember all the times an involuntary sigh escaped you when there was a photo of a new born baby. Scrunched-up faces wrapped up in woolies with a frown or shut eyes, ah who can resist a new-born baby. But watch newborn baby photographers at work and the wonder gives way to astonishment. Newborn baby photographers have to grapple with a different set of challenges compared with photographers of a different genre. Anxious parents, overanxious grandparents and relatives who think the newborn is extremely fragile present just one facet.

Newborn baby photographers will tell you snapping newborn portraits are not for the faint of heart and the impatient. There are arguments aplenty on whether one should go about snapping newborn portraits or wait till the baby has grown up as 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 say most newborn photographers. 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 portraits. Though one could hire a professional photographer, even novices can make excellent newborn baby photographers 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. Newborn baby photographers at times prefer showing the dad/mom/relative holding the baby in their arms but caution about taking 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.

Newborn baby photographers always 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. Having pets pose with a newborn is not a very good idea though it makes for an excellent 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.