You got a camera.

You learned how to shoot in manual mode.

You got the hang of booking sessions.

Now you want to break into Newborn Photography!

& I’m here to say: I’m SO excited for you!!

Newborn Photography is such a fun and rewarding niche but I know it can be intimidating (and expensive) trying to get started.

Let me just start by saying that newborn photography is a spectrum. There’s not just one way to do it and there’s so many variations to it. Own where you’re at and just START!

First things first; lighting!

Where are you shooting? Do you have a studio space or are you traveling to clients home?

If you have a studio space, you can consider a larger setup like a strobe.

I use a Paul C. Bluff Einstein 640 strobe in my studio with a 64″ PLM system.

If you’re traveling to clients homes, you can utilize natural light, on camera flash, or soft boxes (which are easier to travel with)!

Continuous lighting and strobe lighting produce very different images but in the beginning it’s best to choose what works for you, your budget, and your experience!

Next up; props!

When you’re working on transitioning into newborn photography, I feel like it’s best to start with prop posing. Bowls, buckets, baskets, etc. Getting your hands on actual newborns and learning how to handle them, soothe them, wrap them, and pose them in flattering light is the best way to BEGIN!

I know it’s super easy to go nuts with props and buy any and everything you can find but my best advice is…DON’T! As you gain experience and learn what you like, your style will evolve and you don’t want to be stuck with a ton of props that are not your style and collect dust in a closet.

Start with 2-3 neutral wraps, a dough bowl, and a basket.

These will give you enough variety to start your newborn journey!

Lastly; having a session game plan!

Being prepared for your newborn session is just about as important as your wraps and props! I begin each session telling the parents my game plan and expectations.

1. Posed baby shots- 2 preplanned setups
2. Posed family shots- portrait shots
3. Lifestyle family shots- natural interactions with the baby

I find this workflow works best for me and the baby’s temperament.

It also is a great way to incorporate all the different newborn photography elements and find what you like best and what you want your style to look like!

These three elements are what I consider the most important aspects to getting started with newborn photography! It will look different for everyone and there’s not just ONE way to do it. This is what worked for me without being too intimidating.

The most important thing is to just start.

Own where you’re at, friend. You’ve got this!

Are you part of my Newborn Photography for Beginners group? I share tips + tricks and answer your questions LIVE! Click here to join 🙂