6 top tips for photographing babies

Use parents's knowledge
Photographing babies is difficult, so make things easier on yourself by finding out when baby will be at their best – schedule the shoot around them. Before a feed is usually best as they’ll be sleepy and cranky afterwards (the parents are likely to want one crying shot, but not several…)

Ask ahead
Make sure you discuss the shoot with baby’s parents beforehand. Things you should discuss are whether baby will be clothed or naked, the space(s) in which you’ll work and what you need (window light, minimal clutter etc) and if they are any special shots they want.

Capture the details
It’s not all about baby’s chubby cheeks. Tiny feet and fingers make lovely shots, that parent’s will cherish. Also consider taking some shots of the little things that make baby’s room unique or details on their clothes. Shots like this can help when pacing a photo album.

Let the light in
Avoid using flash if you can, if not bounce it from a white ceiling or wall. Natural light from a window is best, as it’ll look natural. Shoot on a nice wide aperture an bump your ISO up if you need to. Don’t underestimate the power of the mighty reflector for adding a bit of extra light either, if you’ve got one, take it. If you haven't, improvise with a white sheet or towel, or a some pre-crinkled kitchen foil.

Add variety
Try shooting from every available angle and remember to get down to baby’s eye-level too. Younger babies don’t do much, so be ready to capture any expressions (who cares if it’s wind, technically it’s a smile).

Go with the flow
Allow plenty of time when photographing babies – they are unpredictable beings and you need to allow for plenty of breaks (tantrums, feeds, burping, changing…). Leave a good few hours and you won’t feel stressed.
 

Image credits: top shot by Paul Grogan, detail shot by Rachael D'Cruze.