Complete Guide
Complete Newborn Photography Guide
Everything you need for stunning newborn portraits - from DIY home sessions to professional studio workflows. Includes lighting setups, BWConverter presets, and delivery best practices.
Why Home Sessions?
Capture intimate moments in familiar surroundings. Natural light from windows creates soft, timeless portraits without expensive equipment.
Quick Stats
- 92% of parents prefer monochrome for announcements
- 27% higher print orders with B&W comparisons
Real Session Examples
Color
B&WWindow Light Portrait
Soft preset with +6 brightness to preserve newborn skin texture.
Color
B&WSibling Storytelling
Classic preset, manual shadow lift (+8) for backlight details.
Color
B&WTexture Study
Vintage preset plus +10 grain to mimic fibre paper.
Parent Prep Checklist
Day Before Session
- Steam or iron wraps and neutral outfits
- Charge camera batteries or phone power banks
- Clear a 2m x 2m area near your brightest window
One Hour Prior
- Warm room to 24°C (75°F) for comfort
- Feed baby and plan nap-friendly playlist
- Prepare backup cloths and plain cushion
During Shooting
- Start with close-up details before baby wakes
- Capture wide scene to establish environment
- Log favourite frames for editing priority
Lighting Recipes
| Recipe | Settings | Setup | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft Window Wrap | 1/160s • f/2.0 • ISO 200 | North-facing window, sheer curtain, white reflector | Sleeping baby chest-up portraits |
| Storyteller Flatlay | 1/200s • f/3.5 • ISO 320 | Overhead light bounced off ceiling, grey blanket backdrop | Sibling hands, feet, prop arrangements |
| Moody Evening Glow | 1/125s • f/1.8 • ISO 800 | Practical lamp behind parent, cardboard flag | Emotive parent-baby cuddle silhouettes |