5 Newborn Photography Posing Techniques
There are many factors that come into play when it comes to newborn photography, and photography in general. The babies outfit, the props, the studio or background, the lighting, and of course the pose. What makes newborn photography so unique, is the signature newborn photography poses.
As a newborn, your baby is more capable of getting into these poses (and actually prefers these poses) as opposed to when they get older. These poses are signature to newborns because these are the poses that the newborn naturally leans to. I also love these poses because they often times symbolize what the baby looked like in the womb.
Without further ado, let’s get into it!
Booty Up Pose
This pose is one you guys may be very familiar with! I love this pose because it looks natural and cuddly, but is very cute. With the “booty up” pose, this is a great opportunity to have a fun outfit on your newborn. Specifically one that emphasizes the bottom of your baby.
I’ve seen tutu’s, bunny rabbit tails, cute little pants, and no bottoms at all! There’s nothing cuter than a baby tooshy and therefore this is one of our favorite poses!
In these poses, we typically suggest leaving the baby without a shirt on because it emphasizes their bottom half up in the air. Everyone loves a good ol diaper butt anyway. Also leaving them without a shirt allows us to show some skin, and the chubbier and wrinklier the better!
Wrapped Pose
One of my other favorites, is a wrapped or swaddled pose! There is nothing like a baby wrapped cozily in a blanket. When a baby is first born, it’s extremely important to keep them warm. Before I had children, I always wondered by newborns were always wearing socks and hats. This is because babies can’t regulate their body temperature as effectively as kids and adults because their bodies have more surface area by weight, causing quicker heat loss.Babies also don’t have as much insulating body fat, especially sick or premature babies. Keeping babies warm helps them stay healthy and comfortable.
This pose, and the blanket as a prop keeps the baby warm and comfortable usually allowing them to take a nap (even during the photoshoot). The sleepier and more comfortable the baby, the better the photos usually turn out.
With the wrapped pose, the newborn baby will be laying on their back, either just with the blanket, or sometimes in a basket or other props depending on what you would like.
Chin on Hands Pose
This pose automatically will make you smile! This pose definitely gives off the most personality and although it doesn’t always look the most natural, it sure is cute. I rarely complete a newborn baby photoshoot without getting a few shots of this look.
It’s definitely a posed look, but you would be shocked how truly comfortable the baby is! Sometimes I pose the baby in this position and they could stay like that for hours. That’s what makes posing newborns so much fun! Positions that may be more uncomfortable for adults, are typically great for babies.
Because this pose is focused on the head, I think it’s a great opportunity to include a head accessory, such as a headband, or hat!
Side Lay Pose
Unlike some of the other poses, this one is a great way to get a view of your entire newborn’s body. The entire point of newborn photography is to capture this adorable, and tiny stage of life. Your child will never be this small and delicate. This pose really gets a great shot of your newborn’s face, their tiny fingers, and tiny toes.
This position is another way to incorporate a cute outfit, a blanket, some props or just a head piece. Just like the chin on hands pose, when we position for a side lay pose, I think it’s just as cute to rest the baby’s head on their hands.
Props
I think everyone should get a few simple and minimalistic shots of their child to truly capture your child’s beauty and their beauty alone. However, when it’s time to spice some things up, props are a fun addition.
There are some more traditional props such as blankets, baskets, cake, hats, etc. but there is so much more you can incorporate as well. Some unique newborn photography props could include a fluffy cloud, miniature newborn bed, a wagon, a baby robe, etc.
If you would prefer an in home newborn session, I think it’s a great idea to take newborn photos in your nursery room. I wrote a post on decorating you nursery specifically for portraits. If you decide to take photos in your nursery, then you can use the rocking chair, the crib, and even the changing table as a prop. This setting is more authentic and natural. I think both a studio session and a lifestyle session are both adorable.
With just a quick search on Pinterest on Etsy, you have all of the ideas at your hands.
Tummy Time Pose
The final pose that is worth mentioning is the belly pose. While it’s recommended that your baby sleep on their backs during this newborn phase, a few minutes of tummy time is actually recommended. While the baby is typically always on their back and unable to roll over on their own, giving the some tummy time is a good way for your baby to experience a new position.
Tummy time can also help your baby develop strong neck and shoulder muscles and promote motor skills. This time will help build strength needed for sitting up, rolling over, crawling and walking. However while your baby gets used to it and grows and strengthens, it’s only recommended to do it while supervised and for only a few minutes at a time. That’s why your photo session is the ultimate time for tummy time! The photo session is highly supervised and safe, and we make sure to move positions frequently.
Who knew your newborn could get some exercise and photos done at the same time?
Wrap Up
To wrap up, and this time we’re talking about the blog post, not the baby, we hope you’re inspired to get some newborn photos taken. If you have never gotten newborn photos taken, you know a little bit more about what to expect in terms of poses.
Outside of poses, hopefully you have more insight into ideas for props, outfits, and an overall theme for your photo session. If you’re still lost or confused, that’s no problem either! I’ve been doing this for years, and can take all of the stress or concern off your hands. Contact me to schedule your next photo session.
