1. Hands under the chin

This is one of the photographer’s favorite poses, but also one of the most difficult poses to capture. It’s all about the right timing and is the parents comfortable with this position. Also make sure there is an adult sitting very close in case the head tilts. You also get the pose where it looks as if the baby’s head is resting on his hands, but that is even more difficult and a lot of time spent on Photoshop.

2. Hands under the head

This is very comfortable for the baby and while he is asleep, you can change the props by adding a blanket or even put his other hand in a different position.

3. Posing in a prop

When using props you can use the same pose but just change the prop and even maybe the outfit. Always just make sure that the props do not cover the baby’s face. And for a plain photo, lying in/on a prop on their backs, the baby’s body should be covered.

4. Arms under the head

This doesn’t differ much from the ‘hands-under-the-head-pose’. Always take a close-up as well. That close-up facial expression tells a story.

5. Open eyes

With newborn shoots mommy wants the baby to sleep more than ever, but unfortunately we wouldn’t be so lucky for them to sleep during the whole shoot. I mean, will you be sleeping if something changes your sleeping position every 15 min? So don’t put your camera down, take a few photos while he is awake in whatever position they are.

6. Wrapped

There are different ways to wrap the baby when you are photographing the baby. Always make sure that the baby is in a comfortable position and that his face is not covered in the wrap. Use a soft wrap that will not irritate the baby’s skin.

7. Bundle of joy

This is just an adorable pose because of the petite little bud. And just look at the wrinkles on the back, always good to see some detail on the baby. Just make sure the room temperature is perfect for this tiny nude baby. Also confirm with the parents that it’s fine with them to take nude photos of the babies especially if you would like to use it for your portfolio.

8. Little Animal Props

There are so many of these types of props that you can just add to create the “cute-little-animal” look without changing the baby’s position or waking him up.

9. Christmas pose

Aren’t you just lucky to have a baby to photograph near Christmas time? You can use all of the above poses and tips and combine it with your Christmas props. If I was a mom with a newborn baby in a Christmas shoot, I would go the old fashioned way and give everyone Christmas cards with photos of my newborn baby on it.

10. Sibling poses

Always make sure their heads are close to each other. And if the big brother or sister is holding the newborn, make sure that the baby’s head is facing the camera. Never spend too much time on sibling photos; out of experience I’ve learned that the new borns get frustrated quickly when being hold by their ‘I-never-want-to-let-go-sibling”.

Poses and Photos Alta van Wyk Picture You Photography