Anyone who has tried capturing a baby on camera knows how unpredictable and irresistibly cute these tiny models can be. A newborn shoot becomes more challenging when the baby is awake, curious, and constantly moving, but it’s a bit easier when they’re peacefully asleep.
That’s why we’ve put together this helpful roundup of newborn photography tips, featuring tried-and-tested newborn shoot tips and insights from seasoned pros. With these professional newborn photography tips, you’ll be able to capture stunning, once-in-a-lifetime moments with confidence and ease.
Tip #1 by Miriam Dubinsky
“Invite a parent to gently cradle or steady their baby during certain poses, keeping their hands just in frame or just underneath for safety. Babies instantly relax with the warmth and familiarity of their parent’s touch, making it easier to capture calm, natural expressions. You can edit the hands out later for a seamless look, or keep them in for a tender, storytelling image that shows just how tiny their newborn was. I also love including pets in these moments — with careful posing and safety measures — to create heartfelt portraits of the whole family together.”
Check out more of Miriam’s work here: Website | Instagram
Tip #2 by Natalia Brembor
“Work in a flowing pose sequence: begin your session with simple, wrapped poses to help the baby feel secure and settled. Once they’re comfortable, gently move into more complex setups without sudden changes. This flowing sequence keeps transitions smooth and reduces unnecessary movement.
By following the baby’s cues and working gradually, you maintain a calm, peaceful atmosphere. It’s all about creating rhythm and comfort for stunning, uninterrupted portraits.“
Check out more of Natalia’s work here: Website | Instagram
Tip #3 by Halina Norvaise
“I keep my studio warm and always have a white noise machine running. Early in my newborn photography journey, I underestimated how important temperature is — sessions were longer and more stressful. Now, once the baby is fed and the room is warm enough, I turn on the noise machine and begin. The atmosphere becomes so relaxed, even the parents sometimes fall asleep!”
Check out more of Halina’s work here: Website | Instagram
Tip #4 by Kristin Reddington
“Swaddling is your best friend in newborn photography. Whether it be a natural, loose swaddle or an intricate swaddle, I always use a swaddle to start when photographing a baby to help calm and settle them. After 9 months in the womb, swaddling is the easiest way to soothe a baby because it makes them feel safe, warm and cosy. When swaddled, I can get gorgeous portraits of the baby awake without their arms flailing around, or settle them into a deep sleep. Swaddling in my newborn sessions not only helps soothe the baby but also creates a variety of looks for the gallery. “
Check out more of Kristin’s work here: Website | Instagram
Tip #5 by Jane Atter
“When I photograph newborns, I always remind parents that angles are everything — they can make or break a photo. Babies naturally look adorable with their big heads, tiny bodies, bright eyes, and little pouty lips, and shooting slightly from above enhances all those features while keeping the body in proportion.
Top tip: you know you are doing the right job, when you can’t see the baby’s nostrils. In my studio, I use carefully feathered studio light to create that same dreamy, soft effect as natural light, gently wrapping around their face for a timeless look. Before I fuss over details like parting their lips or straightening tiny fingers, I make sure to get a “safe shot” first — because parents will treasure it no matter what. After all, it’s better to have a slightly imperfect photo than to miss the moment entirely if the baby decides the photoshoot is over.”
Check out more of Jane’s work here: Website | Instagram
Tip #6 by Lorraine Jardim
“Photographing Older Siblings with a Newborn: When photographing toddlers with their new baby brother or sister, the key is to make them feel just as important as the newborn. This can’t be rushed. Start by getting down to their level – literally. Sit or kneel so you’re at eye level, have a chat, and build a little rapport before even mentioning the baby. Ask them about their favourite toy, what they like to do, or how they’re finding life as a big brother or sister.
When it’s time to bring the newborn in, keep the sibling involved. Let them help by holding a blanket, choosing a prop, or simply sitting close and looking at the baby. Offer plenty of praise, “You’re such a caring big sister!” or “You’re doing such a great job!” this way they will feel proud and excited to be in the photos.
For very young or particularly boisterous siblings, I often photograph them and the newborn separately, then combine the images in post-processing. This approach allows me to focus on getting the best expression from the older child while keeping the baby completely safe and undisturbed.
And yes, these tips also work perfectly for furry siblings! Pets can be photographed separately and safely, then brought together with the newborn in editing for a heartwarming, seamless final image.“
Check out more of Lorraine’s work here: Website | Instagram
Tip #7 by Abby Cope
“Take your time. If a newborn is wide awake, let them wind down naturally. A baby with a full belly who isn’t ready to doze off will often provide a fantastic opportunity for bright-eyed photos. Those curled up poses will come when they’re asleep, and they’ll sleep much more deeply if they have worn themselves out with wiggles. The focus is so often on a sleepy baby, but parents love photos of their little ones when they’re alert and curious.”
Check out more of Abby’s work here: Website | Instagram
FAQs on Newborn Photography
- When is the best time to do a newborn photoshoot?
Ans: The ideal time for a newborn shoot is between 5 to 14 days after birth. At this age, babies are sleepier, more flexible, and easier to pose in those adorable curled-up positions.
- What time of day is best for newborn photos?
Ans: Mid-morning, between 9 and 11 a.m., is usually the ideal time of day for newborn photography.
- How to light newborn photography?
Ans: For a delicate, attractive appearance, use soft, natural light from a large window rather than harsh direct sunlight. To reduce shadows, place the infant at a 45-degree angle to the light source and, if necessary, use a sheer curtain or reflector.
- What are the different styles of newborn photography?
Ans: The three primary types of newborn photography are documentary, lifestyle, and posed. Documentary tells a real-life story with little posing or intervention; lifestyle captures unscripted, natural moments with family at home; and posed focuses on carefully arranged, frequently sleeping babies in wraps or props.
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