Babies are interesting photo subjects. Whether they’re newborn or just a few months shy of turning one, babies are fascinating! Their every move amazes even the most hard-hearted person. They’re so innocent; that’s why they make such good models. Their smiles draw out the best in every one of us.
It’s not easy taking photos of babies, though. You’ll have to consider a lot of things, like their mood. You also need to find the best timing if you want to capture them candidly. Some babies may be shy, while others can be quite the entertainer.
photo by Erik Starck [1]
As such, you will have to have both the physical and mental strength to deal with them. The most important weapon you should have, however, is patience. Not just a basketful, but tons upon tons of patience.
Whether you’re a professional photographer, a hobbyist or a first time parent trying to capture your baby’s precious moments, it will do you a lot of good to follow some tips and tricks that can help you come up with interesting, creative and captivating photos of babies.
Have some attraction
When trying to catch the baby’s attention, find something that will attract him or her. It may be a shiny object, like your watch or bracelet. It can also be his or her favorite toy. Or maybe something colorful, like a stuffed toy. You can also ask one of the parents (if you are not one of them) to stand beside or behind you (the photographer) as this will help draw the baby’s attention to the camera.
Be alert at all times
As babies move freely and naturally, you must be ready at all times to click away. You cannot simply stand there and stare at the baby while he makes all sorts of adorable movements and cute sounds. You should capture almost every move they make!
Use a simple background
If you want to use a background, choose one that’s simple so that the baby will be the center of attention. Do away with backgrounds using loud colors and large images. Fluffy clouds make for a good background as this can help create an angelic effect.
Concentrate on close-ups
If you’re taking a portrait shot, it is advisable to concentrate on close-ups, especially if the baby is a newborn or just a few months old. Also, make sure that you take good shots of the eyes. Babies’ eyes speak a lot. Their hands and feet also create beautiful close-ups.
Take photos while they’re in motion
As much as possible, take photos while the baby is in motion. Examples: when they are playing with their toes, when they’re trying to reach for something, and when they’re crawling or standing up. Sometimes, crying babies make a good snapshot too.
It is also a good idea to take a picture of the baby while he’s taking a bath. If you’re shooting inside a studio, you can set up a baby bath scene. Be sure to use the water and soap suds in creating beautiful pictures.
Be prepared!
Before the actual shoot, write down or visualize what you plan to do. It’s always more creative to be spontaneous, but it also pays to be prepared. You can talk with the parents and ask for suggestions from them with regard to the scenes they want to play out or the effects they want to achieve.
Creative Tips:
Now that you know how to manage a baby photo-shoot, it’s time to focus on the creative aspects. Here are some tips and tricks to help you paint breathtaking photos.
- You’ll achieve the best effects if you use natural lighting. You can hold the shoot in a place or area that’s near a window in order to catch natural light.
- For outdoor shoots, the best times to go out would be early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These are the best times to catch magnificent light. It’s also the safest health-wise as the sun at these times won’t hurt the baby’s sensitive skin.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment, especially when looking for the baby’s best angle. You can crouch, bend or lie on the floor. And as previously mentioned, you can take close-ups. Use macro lens if you have them. You can also take several photos from all angles and then choose the best ones later on.
- Do not hesitate to use the burst feature of your camera. Take shots of the baby in succession. You can use this to create a story.
- Do not be afraid to “take out color”. Black and white baby photos are simply adorable! They show the baby’s fragile and innocent side. They also come out smoother and softer, thus giving off a more dreamy feel.
- Try your best to make the photos personal and meaningful. You don’t necessarily have to add something to the picture, you simply need to capture the baby in his natural element. You can, for example, play his favorite lullaby while taking the photos. The baby will act and feel natural if you do this. Thus, it becomes personal and will convey a deeper meaning.
- In some photos, try to include mommy or daddy – or yourself, if you’re taking your baby’s pictures. This will create a different effect – it will be more dramatic and more meaningful. Besides, when baby grows up, he’ll want to see a photo of himself with mommy and daddy!
- Finally, take photos where the baby is seen beside objects that show how big or small he is. Parents will want to look back on this, especially when they tell stories to their kids or grandkids. One of the most beautiful (and most used) examples is that of a close-up of a baby’s hand placed in his mom or dad’s.
The best thing to remember when taking photos of babies is this: it’s a fun, pleasant and touching experience. If you’re happy and you enjoy every moment, this will show in the pictures. And if you love babies, you’re guaranteed to come up with incredibly awesome photos!