Your baby is growing and changing every single day, and while professional photos capture a perfect snapshot in time, you don’t have to stop there! With a few simple tips, you can continue documenting your baby’s journey at home—preserving all the little moments that make this stage so special. If you’re wondering how to take newborn photos that truly capture the essence of those first weeks, this guide is for you.

Make the Most of Natural Light

Lighting is one of the biggest factors in creating beautiful photos, and you don’t need fancy studio lights to get it right! When considering how to take newborn photos, natural light is your best friend.

Keep It Simple (And Use Neutral Colors!)

One of the secrets to beautiful newborn photos is simplicity. There’s no need for elaborate props or backdrops—your baby is the star of the show!

• Use soft, neutral blankets and onesies. Light colors like whites, creams, and muted pastels keep the focus on your baby. Declutter the background. A clean, simple space (like a bed or cozy blanket) keeps distractions out of the frame. Skip the flashy outfits. Simple onesies or a soft swaddle photograph beautifully and won’t overwhelm the image.

Pro tip on how to take newborn photos: Try placing your baby on a textured blanket or knitted wrap for an extra cozy touch!

Capture the Tiny Details

Some of the most treasured photos aren’t the posed ones—they’re the tiny, unexpected details that make your baby unique.

• Tiny hands grasping your finger. Little feet curled up or stretching out. Soft baby eyelashes and tiny lips. That adorable yawn or sleepy smile.

Pro Tip: Get close-up shots by switching your phone to portrait mode for a beautiful, softly blurred background.

Go for Candid Moments

Some of the best newborn photos happen when you least expect them! Instead of trying to get the “perfect pose,” focus on capturing real moments:

• Baby snuggling on your chest after a nap. Big siblings gently holding the baby or giving them a kiss. Stretchy newborn wake-ups with big yawns. Bath time splashes or post-bath snuggles.

Pro Tip: When considering how to take newborn photos, don’t force a pose—just keep your camera handy and capture your baby as they naturally are.

Use Simple, Safe Poses

While professional photographers have training in newborn posing, you can still capture safe, natural poses at home.

• Laying on their back: Let them stretch, curl up, or rest naturally. On your chest: Capture the sweet bond between you and your baby. Wrapped in a swaddle: A cozy baby = a happy baby!

Avoid complex setups or trying to pose your baby in unnatural ways—simple is always best.

Get in the Frame!

It’s easy to focus all your attention on your baby, but don’t forget to include yourself in the photos! Years from now, you’ll be so grateful to have these moments documented.

• Use a self-timer or ask your partner to take a few shots of you holding your baby. Candid moments are beautiful. You don’t need to be dressed up—just capture the real, quiet moments. Try black-and-white edits for an emotional, timeless feel.

Pro Tip: Don’t stress about looking “perfect.” You and you baby will treasure these photos no matter what!

Edit Lightly for a Soft, Timeless Look

When researching how to take newborn photos, remember you don’t need advanced editing skills to enhance your photos! A few simple tweaks can make your images even more beautiful and your phone’s built in editing tools are more than adequate.

• Brighten the image slightly to enhance soft light. Adjust warmth & contrast to keep skin tones looking natural. Use an editing app like Lightroom Mobile or Snapseed for easy, professional-looking adjustments.

Pro Tip: Avoid heavy filters—natural, timeless edits will look beautiful for years to come.

How to Take Newborn Photos Recap

Your professional newborn session is just the beginning of your baby’s story. With these simple at-home photography tips, you can continue capturing all the little moments and milestones that make these early days so special. Looking for more tips on how to take newborn photos? Check out Melissa Arlena’s DIY Newborn Photos post. Does your newborn have older siblings? Here’s some advice on tips for easy photo sessions with kids or Virginia Beach Family Photographer

So, grab your camera (or phone!), soak up every second, and don’t be afraid to document life just as it is—raw, beautiful, and full of love.

Looking for professional newborn photos to start your baby’s story? Contact me today to book a session—I’d love to help you capture these once-in-a-lifetime memories!