How to do a baby photoshoot - 18 brilliant photo ideas, tips and tricks for baby photo magic

The ADD Family has done all the hard work for you and scoured every corner of the internet - so that you can create stunning photoshoots without having to break open your wallet. Let's face it, planning and executing a photo shoot as an ADD/ADHA parent can be challenging. Here's to an unforgettable bonding experience.

Let's do this!

Baby Photoshoot Tips

1. Pick a warm, sunny day. A baby's photoshoot is even more magical when illuminated by a sunny day's warm, natural light. If you're indoors – take advantage of sunshine streaming through windows to capture those precious newborn moments.
Pro Tip: Photographing babies requires a delicate balance of light and shadow. Opt for an hour when there’s still plenty of natural daylight streaming through without direct sunlight shining directly into your lens. Shadows? Simply bounce some extra lighting toward walls or ceilings.

2. Shoot from above. Capture the cutest moments of your little one by shooting from above. Use a wide-angle lens to give their eyes that cute oversized cartoon character look. This technique works best for slightly older babies who are steady enough on their own (or with support). Those chubby cheeks and bright eyes will definitely be something you'll want to remember forever!

3. Capture the laughter. Kids' laughter is truly a magical thing. Preserving it in a picture will create an everlasting memory of joy. Make funny faces, and sounds, or even have one parent give the baby some gentle tickles for more precious moments captured with smiles and giggles. 

Pro Tip: Getting newborns to smile may seem impossible. But when that tiny grin breaks out - be prepared with a camera at any moment. Take advantage of it quickly and seize the moment- these little smiles don't come often. Enjoy every second!

4. Invite the whole family to join in. From adorable cuddles and playful interactions, having older siblings involved will make for some truly special photos. Get creative with it - if their strength isn't quite up to holding a newborn, they can lay nearby during poses or snuggle close while laying down together. No matter what age gap separates them, capturing these precious memories of brotherhood or sister love is an absolute must-have.

5. Set realistic expectations. Babies may be little angels when they drift off to sleep, but during a photoshoot? Anything can happen. Don’t let those seemingly effortless photos on the internet fool you - babies aren't models. They cry, fuss, and smear messes everywhere; that perfect moment could remain elusive if you're unprepared. Working with tiny tots promises plenty of love and laughter (and maybe some tears too).

Pro Tip: Bring extra diapers, clothing, formula, and extra time. Plan on having an unexpected diaper explosion and feeding session. The calm energy will help everyone have a more enjoyable experience.

6. Use burst mode. Don't miss a moment of the baby photoshoot - set your camera to burst mode.  Just click, and your camera will continuously take pictures as long as the shutter button is pressed. This setting ensures each precious yawn or stretch will get that hero shot. 

Pro Tip: Use it sparingly, otherwise you will get thousands of shots to sift through manually afterward.

7. Make eye contact. Babies are beyond cute, but if you want to create a stunning photo that captures the intimacy and sweetness of life’s little moments, hold the camera in place and move your head away toward your baby and make eye contact. It's a simple technique with major payoffs. It is guaranteed to draw in viewers and make them feel like they share an intimate connection. 

Pro Tip: Older babies may be bribed into smiling with snacks. Patience is key for getting this perfect shot so don't get discouraged when those stares take longer than expected. It's most certainly worth it in the end.

8. Bring stuffed animals. Stuffed animals are a part of the magic of childhood. Furry friends show how tiny your little one is. They also are a perfect little friend older kids can show off to the camera. 

9. Hats and bows.  From bandanas and bow ties to ribbons and hats, there's something out there to perfectly suit every little bundle’s personality. Plus there's no need to worry about waking up the infant or creating distress; just pop them on (and off) easily.

10. Fairy light background. Hang some led, white Christmas lights, or other tiny lights in the back and use a wide aperture to create a shallow depth of field. To maximize this effect, select telephoto lenses or simply decrease the distance between the camera and the subject.

11. Shoot outside. Skip traditional studio or home sessions. The great outdoors offers plenty of chances to take classic shots. But proceed with caution – keep safety first for you and baby if they are prone to wander - especially around water.

12. Use crafty crates and boxes, vintage suitcases or baskets. If your baby is small enough, tuck them into a basket or suitcase. Vintage suitcases and boxes also create a beautiful photoshoot backdrop. Or take a modern approach with beanbags! Don't forget that safety comes first; only ensure you have items large enough for your baby's comfort while also making sure they are sturdy - if needed use pillows and wraps as soft protectors against hard edges or to prevent a fall.

13. Try the classic swaddle shot. Not only does swaddling help the wee one feel snug and secure, it is an elegant portrait that can easily be printed and used for years to come. Try using wraps without prints in a color that compliments the background. 

14. Include a family portrait. This is tricky for DIY'ers, but a remote and tripod can easily be connected to a phone or DSLR. Pose everyone in classic style, choose burst mode, and shoot away! Even if it doesn't result in the "perfect" shot - it's a moment worth preserving.

15. Capture the cuddles and nursing. Get inspired by looking at online photos of other parents capturing this special time with their little ones. Ask for a family member to assist. These images are intimate, beautiful moments that don't last long and you won't regret taking these personal photos.

16. Try sunrise and sunset. Look up what times each occurs and set the alarm. Capture beautiful moments outdoors in natural lighting, with soft light eliminating harsh shadows. Baby photos will look especially amazing under this warm-toned glow. And be sure to experiment with fun techniques like silhouettes or backlighting for truly stunning shots.

17. Play dress up. You can capture festive moments with dresses and suits. Easter bunny outfits or baseball team dress-ups can also reflect your family's fun personality or the season's joy. Costume-clad cuteness FTW!

18. Choose a complementary, not distracting background, and work with a predetermined color palette. This ensures that both wardrobe and background collaborate perfectly. Utilize composition rules when taking shots to achieve an aesthetically pleasing balance between subject and setting.

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Parents are investing in their children's lifelong memories - shelling out hundreds of dollars for professional photographers to capture the perfect shot, Some truly go all-out and even choose luxurious photo packages. However, you can still save big with budget options that offer just as many lasting mementos.

Watching a tiny seed grow into such an adorable, lovable little human in just 12 short months is fascinating. Witnessing their outgrowing of cute wee clothes and snuggly cribs is sure to leave you with warm fuzzy feelings. Even the thought of it actually makes me cry. LOL. 

Unlock your creative potential and make a statement. Let originality shine through in whatever form you choose to express yourself. Fearlessly break the mold with mommy creativity - time to slay.

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Here are a few accessories that will help you create the shoot you want:

AOKE 4 in 1 Newborn Photography Props. It contains a DIY blanket, 2 headbands, and a toddler wrap. https://amzn.to/3YxWG1v

Quick Photo Shoot Ideas for Special Needs Families at Home

 

Sometimes a full family photo shoot isn't an option for kids with special needs. If a full family photo shoot isn't an option, here are a few picture ideas easily captured at home. 

Get Candid

Capturing emotion-filled memories convey a truly authentic experience that can't be achieved with standard portrait poses. All you need to do is get creative and unleash your inner paparazzi! 

From pure joy to tender moments, candid shots will provide you with the best memories. Get ready for some spontaneous fun! Invite children or adults over, let them relax in a well-lit area - then bring out all those hilarious jokes so they can burst into laughter while they mingle and play together. Don't forget that genuine candidness makes these photographs truly unique.

Take group photos

Get the whole family together. Studios, dining rooms, and front lawns are perfect locations. If you need to work around tight timelines, consider staging your pics – it’ll ensure no one gets missed. Just remember that taking pictures of big groups can be challenging - so here's some ways to lighten up the load:

1. Look for wide open spaces with plenty of light and clean backgrounds. You can also use a drone for even more unique memories
2. Shoot at .5 to fit everyone in at once. The wide angle reduces fuzziness and distance. 
3. If friends are invited, let them know you'll take photos. Don’t worry if things get a bit chaotic; it will make capturing memories all the more fun! With just a little advanced notice, getting great photos at holiday events or any special moment won't be an issue. All that's left now: Camera-ready... ACTION!
4. Gather your brothers, sisters, dads, and cousins. Let the photographer in you come alive while working those magic angles - no matter what kind of camera or phone you have- so don't shy away from trying panoramic views. And let’s get creative: burst into crowded spaces shouting for everyone to join in adds extra fun in the picture-taking process!

Outdoor Family Photo Ideas:

1. Give your kids something to splash about! Let them dip in the pool and freeze those special moments forever with beautiful photographs. Don't forget - pictures last longer than memories; this is an amazing opportunity for families everywhere to create priceless keepsakes of their little ones' mischievous grins and splashing hands. Get ready, get set... smile-capture time begins now!
2. Transform your walk in the park into a stunning photographic experience - why not take advantage of the golden hour and capture memories that will last forever! Fall is a great season for photographs, so don't miss out on capturing nature's beauty.
3. Set a backdrop for your family memories that you'll never forget. Go on an exciting adventure and find the perfect building with awe-inspiring architecture where you can take pictures to capture unique angles and settings. Your portrait session will be even more precious when surrounded by such unique beauty.
4. Make your portraits pop with a bright, vibrant background. Find the perfect wall in your area. An easy technique to get professional results - give it a try!
5. Take advantage of the city and turn it into your photo shoot playground. Gather up your family and visit your town's most celebrated landmarks. Capture them in the special place where they're growing up.

Indoor Family Photo Ideas:

1. Gather the family together for a fun indoor game day! Dust off your favorite board games and bust out those UNO cards - it's time to play. Play in a spot with plenty of sunshine, and take memorable group shots. Get ready to have a blast with beloved toys and cherished memories made along the way.
2. Pose on the bed for one-of-a-kind family pictures with your baby. From a cozy story time to a bird's eye view angle, discover new ways to capture those precious moments that will turn into keepsakes. Create personalized photo cards in the future with these unforgettable images from fun times spent together as a family.
3. Spend quality time with your closest loved ones. Snuggle up on the sofa, chat about life's little moments, and preserve them for years to come.
4. Imagine the perfect light illuminating your family with warmth and love. Windows are often the go-to spot. Choose one in your home that streams sunshine across a clean wall. 
5. Get busy in your kitchen! Show off the light and airy ambiance and let the kids have some fun. Photograph them on the counter, playing chef, or baking. They will love showing off their creations to the camera and having a tasty treat. Additionally, messy faces always capture the moment in a special way.
6. Add an extra character element to your photo shoot by framing it through the front door. Let its intricate details provide a unique backdrop and personality.

Use props!

Bring a unique boho feel to your family portraits with a fun teepee prop! On top of that, adding in other props like wooden wagons and tons of colorful balloons or plastic balls will ensure you get beautiful photos filled with natural smiles and glee across the whole family. Don't forget about doodles on a chalkboard too-they're an awesome way to capture little stories from your life together as one happy unit!

Strike a pose!

The love between family members can be immortalized with a big group cuddle. Capture all the laughter, joy, and sweetness of your pack. Dad kissing mom, mom kissing the kids ... even the little ones get involved when you include them in these special moments. 

Extra fun!

1. Grab the lipstick. Put bright red lipstick on the girls and let them kiss their brother's cheeks, or put lipstick on yourself and kiss the cheeks and tummies of your little boy or baby. It's a great Valentine's day shoot that gets even better if everyone wears a white shirt to make those kissing marks POP!
2. Embrace the chaos - Parenthood is full of unique, imperfect moments that are just as special in their own way. Capture true-to-life family portraits, including all the messes and stressful days, as well as those glamour shots, too.
3.  

With these family photo ideas at home, you're sure to capture a precious moment that will be remembered for years. Every family with special needs and ADD/ADHD deserves beautiful, fun photos. 

Which idea do you love most? Let us know by leaving your comments below.

Click Click ... Smile! 15 tips for how to plan a family photo shoot with ADD/ADHD

Click Click... Are you getting excited?

Planning, organizing, and enjoying family photo shoots with ADD/ADHD can be challenging. Some family members may be filled with anxiety or overwhelmed - others may be consumed by itches or overall discomfort.

Understanding and empathizing with those feelings is important. Validating the discomfort allows a safe place for discomfort, a feeling of belonging and love. Phrases like, "I understand how different clothes can make you cry," or relating this foreign experience to a funny cartoon character or animal are little strategies to help everyone emerge intact.

The good news is that family photo shoots can be done on a DSLR camera like this, or a much less intimidating phone seen in everyday life. Don't let the opportunity escape- planning the perfect photo shoot with special needs kids starts now. Even if the perfect photo doesn't happen, approaching the session with gratitude and pride helps everyone have a better experience. There still may be tears, but if moms and dads are calm everyone benefits.

With the help of this family photoshoot guide, you'll learn how to plan ahead, capture unforgettable moments and make memories that will last a lifetime.

15 TIPS TO PLAN A FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

#1. Pick the best time of day

When planning for a family photo session, timing is key. Ensure that the shoot does not coincide with nap time and pick an hour when everyone will be as energized and alert as possible - think post-mealtime. To keep smiles bright throughout, try to make sure it doesn't drag on too long; if you have many people in tow, your best bet is to focus on capturing the kids first before moving on to other shots.

#2. Pick a familiar location

Pick somewhere close to home or at home. Getting everyone ready, dressed, into the car, and then placed into an unfamiliar setting can be a recipe for a family photo shoot disaster. Try to think of places where the child(ren) and you have fun. Photographers can work magic wherever you are. 

#3. Pick the outfits

Go onto Pinterest, Instagram, or Facebook and look for family photoshoot inspiration. Pick a color palette you enjoy, then make sure those colors actually look good on everyone. Allow for a variety in fabric, texture, and type of shirt, pants, skirt, or dress. Consider whether your child will wear the new clothing. This may be a year or season where that child's favorite outfit dictates the "theme" of the shoot. Have fun with it. 

A general rule of thumb is to not pick patterns or stripes. Focus on clothing that has vertical lines like an open jacket, vest, or sweater.

Don't forget your shoes and socks! Picking brown, black, bare feet or running shoes often gets overlooked. Include belts in your planning and white or black socks or tights. 

What's the worst thing that could happen? "When the choice is either laugh or cry," said Sarah Paxton, a mom of five, "I always pick laugh. I try to approach situations with smiles and reflect on photo shoot disasters with fondness."

"If the child throws a massive fit, sometimes recording a video, then showing it to them during the tantrum or outburst will stop it immediately. We both usually end up laughing."

Clothing color variety can either be monochromatic or complementary. Both choices look good.

If all else fails, just wear dino costumes. This roaring fashion style is available in both adult and children sizes. Adult sizes: https://amzn.to/3YFSRYf   Children sizes: https://amzn.to/3jpc9RH It will be a day you, your family, and friends will never EVER forget!

#4 Layer accessories

Unless you pick the dino costume option, it's a good idea to also pick accessories for each outfit. Look closely at your favorite family photo shoot inspirations. More likely than not, the clothing will have more than one layer. There will also be necklaces, earrings, an extra jacket or scarf, and special hair accessories. This is because photos look good with more depth. These additions beautifully draw the eye. 

While accessories take additional time to plan, buy, or organize, they also present difficulties for parents with children with special needs. Prepare in advance a few choices for accessories. Giving them choices allows them to have more control in an uncomfortable situation.

#5 Set aside all photo shoot clothing

In one central location, hidden from plain sight, store all the shirts, pants, shoes, socks, underwear, and accessories. This not only helps with planning and making sure everyone has a complete outfit, it also helps keep everything clean and unwrinkled. 

Little hands won't get into the new items or wrinkle newly ironed shirts. If your child loves surprises, photo shoots are the perfect opportunity for a fun surprise of a new outfit or fun hair bow.

#6 Plan the day

This differs from planning the time of day the photo shoot will occur. Enough time has to be set aside for haircuts, tantrums, bathing, dressing, and unexpected events. Include a lot of time for you to get ready yourself. 

Whatever schedule you make for the day, prioritize yourself. It will show in your photos and increase the likelihood you enjoy the experience. Take the mom-bun and sweatpants off. It's time to pretend like you have it all together.

"We may not have it all together, but together we have it all."

Yes, you will probably be exhausted the entire time, but when the day is over, and you get the photos back, it will all. be worth it.

#7 Surprises

While new accessories and outfits can be surprises, treats, toys or play cameras can also add to the experience to distract from uncomfortable physical and emotional experiences of special needs kids. It doesn't have to be fancy, but having a "bag of tricks" with a few options will help you have a backup option or two if tears erupt.

#8 Jokes

Relate the clothing or photo shoot experience to something the child loves. Maybe it is Pokemon, and they're wearing red or yellow. "You look like ....! (insert superheroes name here)

Or, if the dress is shiny like Cinderella, give praise saying she looks just like Cinderella. If there is an item with faux fur, easily call it "the bear sweater." 

"Do you want to wear your bear sweater?" It may bring laughs.

Taking your child's mind off the unfamiliar and placing it into something very familiar helps the body relax.

#9 Allow for hidden joy

What the camera can't see doesn't matter. Toys like squish balls or a switch controller can easily be hidden and out of sight. With the object nearby, the child will have another opportunity to feel more comfortable and at home.

#10 Emotional regulation

Prepare for situations where you as the parent may get upset, frustrated, or disappointed. Run through these emotional experiences mentally and how you will handle them. Find thoughts that will help you keep everything in perspective. Be an example throughout the day. Plan small times when you can breathe deeply and meditate to calm your body and mind. Approach each step with grace and kindness for the expected and unexpected. Prioritize your ability to remain calm, joyful, and thankful that everyone is a part of this "day mom made them take a photo."

#11 Family traditions and rituals

Family photos are not a ritual or tradition everyone in the family may value. But family photos can be part of a ritual, which are experiences that do create value regardless of enjoyment. Family traditions and rituals help unite a family. They are an event that everyone can count on. One or two days a year, having everyone clean, dressed beautifully, in one place, and participating in the same activity at the same time is an event to be celebrated. Looking back, you may not remember the details, but you will see a cherished image.

#12 Hire a photographer

If hiring a photographer isn't in the budget, ask a talented friend or family member to take the photos. Not only does it reduce stress as a parent, but it also puts it on the calendar. Additionally, if a deposit is paid, there is an additional incentive to ensure it happens. Professional photographers know their stuff. The price is worth the memories that will remain for generations to come.

#13 Enlist help

Having a friend or caregiver attend reduces your workload and gives the photographer another set of hands to hold items, make funny faces, or watch kids while groupings are being photographed. Even if it is unnecessary, this will reduce your mental workload and allow you to enjoy the experience. Help is also a great idea when getting everyone ready and looking good one at a time. They can help inject some fun and joy into stressful moments.

#14 Screen photographers

This may take time you don't have, but asking briefly, or extensively when contacting photographers if they have experience with special needs kids, highly sensitive children, or unpredictable situations, may increase the likelihood of getting a great photo. You will also be able to gauge their temperament when it comes to ADD/ADHD. Either it's a fit, or it's not. Quickly move along if there is discomfort in their tone or response. Not everyone can have an amazing ADD family.

#15 Props

Blankets, stuffed animals, toys, or pillows bring familiarity into photo shoots and reduce uncomfortable physical sensations. Blankets cover the grass, keep kids warm, and bring more color and depth to the shoot. Go ahead and put a few extras in the car for those, "just in case," moments. The blanket could be familiar, but it could also be new and coordinate with outfits.

Finally, celebrate! Jump into cozy clothes and cuddle up together. Watch a movie, eat pizza, and sleep. You've done something HUGE. Everyone has survived and deserves a reward. It may take a couple of days to recover, and that's alright. The experience will be worth it. Tell your spouse and kids how grateful you are for them and how well they did. Emphasize the moments where they overcame emotions or discomfort. Share that you are proud of them. Say thank you.

Good job FAMILY!

Do you have any other ideas or tips? Share below!