Heya! So, I decided I needed to share a few tips that moms can use to photograph their own newborns during the Covid-19 crisis. I know in Indiana we’re getting closer to starting to open things back up, but high-risk moms and babies may need to stay away from studios for longer than some. Tomorrow, I’ll write about the steps we’ll be taking when we do start photographing in studio again to keep everyone as safe as possible!

1. Capture Interactions Between Family Members

   Have that camera ready and have older siblings lay with the baby and capture their genuine interactions with each other. Make sure to get one with Mom and Dad, too:)

2. Use Natural Light

   Place baby near a large window that let’s lots of natural light in - turn off your camera’s flash if it has one to avoid harsh shadows, and turn off any lights in the room so they don’t cast funny colors onto baby. Also, try to place baby so the light is falling over their face at a 45 degree angle.

3. Capture the “Pieces”

   Don’t be afraid to get the close-ups of those little toes, fingers, nose, mouth and ears…these are some of my favorites and help you remember down the road all of those little details!

4. Don’t Shoot “Up the Nose”

   Position yourself so that baby’s nose is facing the camera straight on, or turned to the side. No photo of nostrils is very flattering, and this angle can also make the head look an odd shape.

5. If You Wrap, Wrap It Right

   Have the nurses at the hospital show you how to wrap your baby safely, and remember not to pose them so that the angle of their head could cut off their airway. Too far forward or back is very dangerous, and too-tight wraps can restrict breathing or overheat baby, too.

6. NEVER Stand Elevated Over Baby

   Taking shots from straight above baby is okay, but be mindful of your balance and never, ever stand on a stool or ladder to get higher. Also remember to use your strap if you’re shooting with a real camera!

7. Don’t Put Baby On Anything They Can Fall Off Of

   This is pretty self-explanatory, but if you try to start propping baby up on things you’re increasing the risk of them rolling off, flipping their head dangerously, or injuring an arm or leg if you haven’t been trained in proper posing techniques.

8. Headbands Belong In The Hair

   Only in recent years have I discovered that headbands look far better when placed in the hair versus across the forehead - and be aware that large ones can overpower baby and place not-pretty shadows right over their face if you’re not careful!

Well, that’s it for today - in the meantime, if you find yourself needing to capture photos yourself, feel free to reach out to me and I’ll be happy to talk you through what I can if you need any help! Stay healthy, and happy baby havin’!