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.
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.
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
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