Babies and infants can be the most challenging assignment anyone can get. A tremendous amount of patience is required both from the parents, infant, and the photographer. Prepare to spend at least a couple of hours on location. Always remember that you’re working on “their” (infant) time.
1. Pick the right time: The best time to photograph a newborn infant is within the first 7-14 days after birth. By this time, their cheeks would have filled up and they don’t appear “wrinkly”. After 14 days, baby acne typically sets in which makes it harder to take photos unless you’re willing to spend the time to clone out the acne. If you miss the window I mentioned, try to schedule a session after 10 weeks. Baby acne, depending on the baby, can last for at least 6-8 weeks.
2. Always go for natural light: It’s easy to be tempted to use a flash but I suggest you stay away from this option. Flashes are harsh if not controlled properly. If you do have to use a flash, use indirect flash or use a diffuser. Babies get startled with bright flashes of light. Just remember that a happy baby makes for a happy photographer. Whenever possible, always avail of natural light. Big, large windows are perfect for this situation. Don’t be shy to ask the parents if they have large windows you can shoot around.
3. Pick the right moment: Ask the parents what time is their baby awake and asleep. If you’re lucky, it’s within a span of a couple of hours. The best moment is just shortly after they feed. You would have a few minutes to shoot after which they get sleepy and go for their nap. Try to capture the baby awake and asleep. Either one makes for great compositions.
4. Get up close and personal: Move in tight without coming to close to the baby. Use a zoom lens if possible. Remember that the baby is the star of the show. Filling the frame is definitely acceptable. Don’t just get close. Get really close!
5. Show the extremes: Take a photograph of their hands and feet in contrast with those of their parents. The small proportions of the baby makes for great captured moments. Their fragility and dependency on us creates stories that will be treasured for a long time.
6. Pay attention to your surroundings: Avoid mess and clutter. If you’re fortunate enough to have a fast lens (I use a Canon 24-70mm f2.8L), you can control your depth of fields better. Blur the background and showcase the baby without having too many distractions in the background. Keep the background simple.
7. Follow the leader: They lead. You shoot. It’s that simple. Don’t force them to do things they’re not comfortable doing. It’ll only make things worse for you.
8. A photograph may just be one in a million: On average sessions, I spend about 1000 frames and only use about 100. A 10% return is ok. Don’t be afraid to use up your memory card. The beauty of digital photography is that it frees us from the anxiety of spending precious film. Digital is free. Use them as much as you can and you’ll be rewarded in the end.
9. Capture feelings and emotions: Not all photos need to be happy images. Capturing infants when they’re cranky or crying is equally as good.
10. Images for stock photography or marketing: If you plan on reselling the images or using them for marketing purposes, make sure that you have the parents sign a consent to release form prior to the session. Advise the parents what your plans are for the images. Remember that technically you own the copyright for any image you take and can do whatever it is you want with them. There is a level of trust that the parents give to the photographer and try not to break it. If you post your images without their consent, they might have a negative reaction to this and this would not be good for your business.