Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Newborn Photoshoot
Newborn photography is a unique and heartwarming genre that requires patience, creativity, and a gentle touch. As a newborn photographer, every session is a special opportunity to capture the innocence and beauty of a precious new life. Join me on a journey behind the scenes as I take you through a typical day in the life of a newborn photoshoot.
Preparation: Before the session begins, careful preparation is key. I communicate with the parents to understand their preferences, any specific poses or props they desire, and to provide guidance on what to expect during the shoot. If the session is taking place at my client’s home, I request they prepare the home to ensure it’s warm, cosy, and equipped with extra swaddles and blankets, with gentle music playing in the background to calm the baby.
Welcoming the Newborn: As I arrive to each client’s home, I greet the parents warmly and take the time to connect with them and their little one. Building rapport with the family is essential to creating a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for the photoshoot.
Setting the Scene: Once everyone is settled, I begin by searching for the perfect natural light in the home - usually it will be a bedroom or living space. I carefully arrange blankets, wraps, and any other props the family would like to include in the photos such as a teddy. I often use soft, neutral colours (white, bone, beige, sage etc) and a variation of natural textures (woven knits, linens etc) to enhance the timeless and ethereal quality of the photographs.
Capturing the Magic: With the scene set, it's time to start capturing the magic. I gently pose the newborn, always prioritising their comfort and safety above all else. From adorable curled-up poses to sweetly swaddled shots, each moment is carefully crafted to showcase the newborn's delicate features and personality.
Patience is Key: Newborn photography requires a great deal of patience. Babies can be unpredictable, and it's not uncommon for them to need feeding, soothing, or nappy changes during the session. I approach each moment with patience and understanding, allowing ample time for breaks and adjustments as needed between the baby and parents.
Embracing Spontaneity: While I come prepared with a plan, I also embrace the spontaneity and unpredictability of newborn photography. Some of the most precious moments are captured when the newborn smiles, yawns, or snuggles up in a way that's entirely natural and unscripted.
Involving the Parents: I actively involve the parents throughout the photoshoot, encouraging them to interact with their newborn and participate in the process. Whether it's capturing tender moments of bonding and snuggling up together, or incorporating meaningful props or heirlooms, involving the parents adds depth and emotion to the images.
Attention to Detail: Throughout the session, I pay close attention to every detail, from the positioning of tiny fingers and toes to the delicate curve of a newborn's cheek. It's these subtle details that bring the photos to life and create images that are truly cherished keepsakes.
Post-Processing: After the photoshoot, I carefully select and edit the best images, enhancing their beauty while maintaining a natural and timeless aesthetic. I take care to preserve the newborn's unique features and the authenticity of the moment, ensuring that the final images are a true reflection of this fleeting stage in their life.
Celebrating the Journey: As the photoshoot comes to an end, I take a moment to celebrate the journey and bond that has been captured. Each newborn session is not just about creating beautiful images; it's about preserving precious memories and celebrating the joy of new beginnings.
A newborn photoshoot is a beautiful and intimate experience that requires skill, patience, and a genuine love for capturing the innocence and wonder of new life. By providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the process, I hope to convey the passion and dedication that goes into creating timeless newborn portraits that will be treasured for a lifetime.
- Al McTavish | Sydney, Australia
