How to Do a Newborn Photoshoot at Home – Step-by-Step Guide

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Do you really want to do a photo shoot by yourself? That’s a great idea. And you know what? Lots of parents search on Google for how to do a newborn photoshoot at home. 

Don’t worry! Here I will give complete information regarding the baby photoshoot.

First, welcoming a newborn baby into the family is the most beautiful moment for parents. 

We know that these tiny fingers, cute yawns, innocent smiles, and memories every parent wants to keep forever.  That is why newborn photography is so special. 

Do you know one thing? As per Google data, many parents think must hire a professional photographer for this. 

The good news is you can do a newborn photoshoot at home easily, even with a simple camera or your smartphone.

In this article, we will explain everything step by step – from setting up your home, lighting, poses, and props, to editing the photos. 

If you are using a DSLR camera or just your iPhone/Android phone, you will learn how to take professional-looking baby photos at home.

Why Do a Newborn Photoshoot at Home?

Let’s first talk, we will do a newborn photoshoot at home. We have several reasons to choose a photoshoot at home. 

You know that the main reason is that we can’t go outside for an outdoor photo session for baby. Because we have to keep safe from outside pollution. 

So, at home very good idea and saves for the baby. 

Below, I have given some benefits you can go through.

  1. Comfort: We know that your baby feels safe and calm at home. So, we can easily do a photo session at home. 
  1. Budget-Friendly: We don’t need to spend thousands on professional studios. We can create a wonderful shoot at home.
  1. Natural Photos: You know very well that you can take a photo baby with a family shoot. I am sure that this is a natural photo session, and you can capture real, candid moments.
  1. Flexibility: This benefit is a very important part. You can do the shoot whenever your baby is in a good mood.

Things You Need Before Starting the Photoshoot

I am sure that you don’t need expensive equipment. Only you should arrange simple things; you can create magical photos.

how to do a newborn photoshoot at home

  • Camera or Smartphone (DSLR, Mirrorless, or iPhone/Android).
  • Good Natural Light (window light is best).
  • Soft Blanket or Bed (for safe and cozy setup).
  • Props like soft toys, baskets, pillows, or wraps.
  • White Noise or Soft Music (to keep baby calm).
  • Patience and Time (babies may take breaks).

Let’s start. I will guide you step by step: You should go through some important points. 

Step 1: Choose the Right Time for Photoshoot

You know what? Timing is a very important part of the photoshoot, and the best time for a newborn shoot is when the baby is 7 to 14 days old. At this age:

  • Babies easily sleep longer. So, you can shoot easily. 
  • They curl naturally in cute poses.
  • They don’t move too much.

Best timing in the day: Morning hours when your baby is fresh and less cranky.

Step 2: Lighting – The Secret of Good Photos

I must say that lighting is everything in photography for newborn photography at home:

  • You should use natural window light. You can place your baby near a large window.
  • You must avoid direct harsh sunlight. You need to use a thin curtain to soften the light.
  • If shooting at night, you should use a soft white LED lamp.
  • Please don’t use a camera flash directly because it can hurt the baby’s eyes.

Step 3: Create a Safe and Cozy Setup

Please remember that safety is more important than photography. You must always keep these in mind:

  • You must place your baby on a soft blanket or bed.
  • You can use pillows around for support.
  • Please, don’t leave the baby unattended on props like baskets or chairs.
  • You can keep the room warm (around 26–28°C) so the baby feels comfortable.

Step 4: Baby Poses for Photoshoot

I have given below some simple and safe poses you can try at home:

1. Sleeping on Back Pose

You can lay your baby on a soft blanket, cover it with a light wrap, and capture it from above.

2. Tummy Time Pose

You can place the baby on the tummy, hands under the chin, and it looks very cute.

3. Wrapped in Blanket Pose

You should wrap the baby in a soft wrap and make them feel secure.

4. Basket Pose

You must place the baby safely in a basket with soft blankets. This kind of pose will be outstanding. 

5. Parents Holding Baby

You can capture the bond by taking close-up shots of the baby in the mother’s or father’s arms.

6. Detail Shots

Please, don’t forget to take pictures of tiny fingers, toes, ears, and lips. 

Step 5: Dress and Props for Baby Photos

Remember, one thing is to use soft, light-colored clothes. You should use simple toys during a photoshoot. 

  • You should wrap blankets in pastel shades (white, cream, light pink, sky blue) that look best.
  • You must use props like teddy bears, small baskets, hats, or flowers to add beauty. 

Step 6: Camera and Phone Settings

If you are using a DSLR/Camera:

  • You should use a 50mm lens or a 35mm lens for sharp photos.
  • You can do aperture: f/2.8 – f/4 (blurry background, sharp baby).
  • You should do Shutter Speed: 1/200 or faster.
  • ISO: Keep low (100–400) for less noise.

If you are using a Smartphone (iPhone/Android):

  • You should tap on the baby’s face to focus.
  • You can use portrait mode for background blur.
  • Please, you must clean your lens before shooting.
  • You must avoid Zoom – move closer instead.

Step 7: Keep Baby Happy During Photoshoot

  • You must feed your baby before the session.
  • You should keep the room warm and cozy.
  • You can use soft music or white noise.
  • If the baby starts crying, you should take breaks.

Happy baby = beautiful photos.

Step 8: Editing Photos

Remember that if you are editing perfectly. So, your photos look more magical.

  • You can use free apps like Snapseed, Lightroom Mobile, or VSCO.
  • You can increase brightness slightly.
  • You can reduce shadows.
  • You should keep colors soft and natural.
  • Please avoid heavy filters – a natural look is best.

Read This as well – Female Photographer for any event.

Extra Tips for Professional-Looking Photos

  • You must shoot from different angles (top, side, close-up).
  • You can use natural props, such as wooden baskets or flowers.
  • You should take Black and White photos that look timeless and classy.
  • You must involve siblings or parents for emotional family portraits.
  • You can easily capture candid moments – yawns, stretches, and smiles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

I must say that many parents make mistakes during a photo shoot. I have given some important points you should avoid during the session. 

  • Do not use the camera flash directly.
  • Please don’t overload with props.
  • Don’t shoot while the baby is irritable.
  • Don’t force a baby into unsafe poses.

Final Words: 

I think everyone knows that a newborn photoshoot at home is not just about photos but it’s about freezing a moment forever. I hope you like our complete information.