There are few things more precious than a newborn, especially a newborn who is just hours old. I'm always in awe of the absolute miracle of it all. As a photographer, I can't help but think how every single detail needs to be documented.
Here are 5 quick and easy Tips to take beautiful newborn pictures while they are still in the hospital:
#1: Open all the blinds and use a low aperture.
Often times hospital rooms are not exactly conducive to taking natural light photos. But not to worry, there is always a way around it. First of all open the blinds (pull them all the way up, don't just open the slats). Next, if you still don't have a fast enough shutter speed, open your aperture all the way. (f/1.8, 2.0, 2.2 etc.) This will help you achieve a nice fast shutter speed.
#2: Position the baby where there is not a lot of clutter and distraction
Let's face it, hospital rooms are packed with eye clutter...cords, trays, buttons, your own stuff, the baby's stuff...the list goes on and on. When taking pictures of the baby push that clutter aside and fill your frame with the baby.
#3: Take some detail shots of the baby and the room.
A newborn's skin is so soft and furry and often times so wrinkly. And unfortunately this stage only lasts for such a brief moment. Take some close-up pictures of the baby and even some of the surrounding area to document exactly what the baby looks like.
#4 Step back and take a picture of the entire room
Just as you took pictures of the details, take some pull-back pictures of the entire room to show what it felt like and looked like in the hospital room.
#5 Take some shots of the baby and Mom.
Of course you need to document Mom holding the baby and the special bond they share. To help take the pressure of being in front of the camera off of Mom try suggesting things for her to do. For example say, "Hold the baby in your left arm and gaze down at the baby." (click, click, click) or "Put the baby on your belly and look up at the camera." (click, click, click) "Good, okay now look down at the baby. " (click, click, click)
As you can see, documenting special moments doesn't have to be complicated. Don't let yourself turn a quick and easy 15 minute job into a complex and difficult 2 hour job! Simplify and see results.
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