A newborn baby is a precious thing, and capturing that brief time can be so important. They are only that small and fragile for so long. But it can be difficult to take great photographs of them. They're tired, crying, drooling, squirming, doing just about anything they can to ruin your picture. So how can you take the best photo? Here are some techniques that can help you get that great digital photograph.
The easiest time to get your prized picture is when they are first born, between one and three days old (granted that you are home and feeling up to it). During this time, newborns are so completely passed out, that you can put them in virtually any position you want without them waking up. Use this to your advantage. It is a very small window!
"Sleeping" pictures capture the innocence and preciousness of a newborn. No, you won't get all those adorable smiles or funny faces yet. That is further down the road. This is also when they will be at their smallest; they only get bigger from here! Use this to your advantage. Use something to help with scale to demonstrate how small they really are. For example, someone holding the baby in one hand, with their hand as the only part of their body in the picture. Using these types of contrasts can really make a great photo.
Try focusing on parts of the newborn. You can take a picture of just their eyes, or feet, etc. Photography does not have to be limited to a whole subject. Sometimes just looking at parts can be better and more creative. As they grow a little older, it will get a little more challenging. Finding, and getting them to, that perfect pose is no easy task. Remember to have lots of patience and work with what they are giving you. Don't be afraid of capturing all the facial expression, even if they are crying. It's a thing all babies do and I think it can make a great creative photograph. Your baby could be doing just about anything, and as long as you have the shot set up right, you can get that great picture.
So stop worrying about what your baby is doing and pay attention to what you are doing. Try shots from different angles. Most people take pictures head on, front and center. I say "BORING". It makes for a flat, fruitless picture that no one will take a second glance at (OK, maybe they will because your baby is so darn cute, but you can do better!). Try profiles, from above and below, and close up. You would be amazed at the way a newborn's inner soul can show through a photo when you capture "the moment" and not just "a pose".
Pay attention to WHERE you are taking the photos. Having your baby on the floor with your dirty laundry in the background is NOT going to make for a great photo. Try for something simple. I prefer a dark background that helps the newborn "pop" with their light skin tone (or a light background for a dark baby, contrast is key). Or try going outside. Green foliage can be a great background and helps to give texture and depth. The sunlight can light up your newborn gracefully, or can cause nasty shadows. It's a little harder to work with, but well worth it.
Your newborn is already the cutest thing in the world. It won't take much to capture that essence in a photo for all to see. Just remember to be patient and try different things. That is the beauty of a digital camera, experimenting is easy and well worth it. You never know what you may capture!
For more tips and techniques for taking a great digital photograph click here http://www.creativedigitalphotography.info/
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