It’s no surprise: you want to take a gazillion photos of your new baby. From their eyelashes to their toes and from bathtime to snuggles, new parents want to capture it all. But in between burping and diaper blowouts, how do you actually take the perfect newborn photos?
I’ve asked Charleston, SC newborn photographer Kate Gilleran of Mayflie Photography to give us her best advice for taking the perfect professional newborn photos. Kate is an experienced newborn and family photographer in Charleston specializing in capturing every precious moment between the new baby and parents.
When should we schedule newborn photo sessions?
Schedule your photo session for when your baby is 3-15 days old. The real sweet spot of baby photography is during the first 15 days when your baby is still sleepy and able to be positioned in those cute squishy poses.
What is the best way to pose baby for newborn photos?
Kate’s popular newborn photography style captures babies wrapped up in swaddles like cocoons, curled up in baskets or wearing antique knit hats and diapers. You can also bring other simple props such as blocks spelling out their name or a blanket with their name. You’ll see amazing examples on Kate’s website. Kate aims to capture baby’s every smirk, smile, and dreamy expression. She’ll also help you position baby into the proper cuddle hold with mom, dad and siblings.
How do we keep baby happy for newborn photos?
A fed baby is a happy baby. Kate recommends feeding your baby right before the session begins to make for a nice full belly that sends them off into dreamland. She also preps her studio space with a sound machine to comfort baby like the natural sounds in the womb and sets the room temperature on the warmer side.
What is the best location for newborn photos?
Kate offers newborn photography sessions indoors in her Charleston studio. In a professional studio, the sounds and temperature can be regulated. Babies are used to being cozy so the studio space is kept on the warmer side. Plus, she has every newborn photography prop on hand.
How should we dress the baby for newborn photos and what should the family wear?
The highlight of newborn photography is capturing your baby just as they are. Don’t worry about complicated outfits (often store bought outfits are ill fitting). In Kate’s Charleston based photography studio, she supplies everything you need to accessorize your baby. As a newborn photography pro, she already knows which props, headbands, swaddles, etc will work the best in photos. When it comes to mom and dad or siblings’ clothing choices in photos, think comfortable garments and solid colors. Plus bring a backup in case of baby messes.
Overall, capturing the natural beauty of baby without too much fluff will allow you to take the best newborn photos.
For more information about new baby milestones such as sleep, feedings, photos, travel, nanny placement or other questions, contact me at Mandy@yourbabyconsultant.com.
