10 Tips for Taking Baby’s Photo

Babies are full of energy we adults can only wish we still had. Getting a baby to sit down in general can be challenging. Getting a baby to sit still for a photo without looking like a deer caught in headlights can be an even bigger challenge. The most important tip for taking baby photos is quite simply PATIENCE, but here are some other ticks to make the process a little easier.

1. Switch your angle

Try taking a number of shots at one angle and then switching to another angle. This tactic works for adult portraits as well. Sometimes the photographer has to put in work, especially when the subject isn’t giving much variety in expressions. Babies are infamous for the poker face when having their photos taken. Move around an experiment with your space instead of stationing your camera in a static position.

2. Keep shooting

Accept that babies don’t quite speak our language yet. The likelihood of them smiling on the count of three is slim to none. Don’t wait for that magical moment; instead capture tons of frames to maximize your chance of taking the perfect photo. You’ll have a much better selection to choose from at the end of your shoot.

3. Talk to your baby

Much like working with adults, it’s a good idea to engage with your subject so he or she feels less like a spectacle. Knowing you are there and you are comfortable can in turn make baby feel comfortable. Instead of showing baby that you are stressed or becoming completely silent, open up a familiar dialogue that you know your baby is comfortable with.

4. Set the mood with music

Playing faint music can be relaxing for both you and your child. Choose a tune your baby may already be familiar with and periodically hum along.

5. Take breaks

Feeling distant from you attributes to half of the frustration babies feel during photo ops. Many babies will reach for mom or dad and cry when having their pictures taken.  Relieve them of this frustration and give them some love. When you’re switching angles is a great time jump in for a hug.

6. Give them a prop

We know this doesn’t always work, and babies may get bored with their dolls after a while. This is still a great quick fix for a fussy baby. Allow them cuddle with something soft and familiar.

7. Call Baby’s name

Babies are a bit more receptive to name-calling than adults may be. Saying baby’s name or a familiar phrase may demand their attention. Once you have their attention make sure you are smiling or doing something to make baby giggle.

8. Kneel down to baby’s level

Of course there are no rules when it comes to art, but in general an eye-level view of your subject captures a true to size image. Try crouching down to baby’s level so they are the star of the frame.

9. Come in close

When shooting portraits for newborns a tight angle is advised. You’ll be happy to have captured so much detail when your child gets older. Try switching your camera to macro mode. This setting picks up on all the smallest expressions on baby’s precious face in HD.

10. Soften the light

Using harsh photo lights can be extremely uncomfortable for babies. It is a very good idea to introduce an umbrella to your lighting source. Umbrellas diffuse those staggering beams of light hitting baby’s face.

Guest Blog by Karen Barski, BSN, RN, Mother of five, Certified Infant Care Specialist & Instructor, & Inventor of the  Woombie Baby Swaddle

Karen has been an RN for 18 years, and has worked in many different nursing roles. As a Certified Infant Care Specialist, Karen counsels thousands of families yearly on a multitude of issues relating to pregnancy and infancy. Also, as a mother of five, she has invaluable experience and tips to share.

Since 2007, Karen’s company, KB Designs, has invented a line of signature baby swaddle products that have helped parents easily transition their new babies from womb to home. There are multiple designs and sizes so that babies can enjoy the comfort and security of the Woombie up until the time they begin to roll.

Each product has been created and designed by Karen because of a need she identified in her life with her five children. With convenience, safety, and fashion in mind, KB Designs has helped over a half million babies and counting!

For more information, visit www.woombie.com.

Interested in writing a guest blog for Sleeping Baby? Send your topic idea to pr@sleepingbaby.com.

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