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Becoming A Newborn Photographer - 5 Things You Need

Vanessa Keo

Updated: Oct 5, 2024


Starting your own newborn photography business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. Capturing those precious early moments of a newborn's life requires not only skill and creativity but also the right tools and resources.This Newborn Photographer's Guide includes my top 5 things you need for becoming a newborn photographer to kickstart your journey into the world of newborn photography. In addition I have included links for some of the items below.


Professional newborn photo taken by Vanessa Keo Photography in Nashua NH. Photo contains newborn baby girl in cream colored wrap and bonnet inside of a basket.

1. Quality Camera and Lens:


First and foremost, you'll need a reliable camera and lens to capture high-quality images. While there are many options available, investing in a Mirrorless camera paired with a 35-millimeter 1.4 lens can provide stunning results. The 35mm lens is versatile, allowing you to capture a variety of shots, from close-ups of tiny fingers and toes to wider angles that showcase the newborn's environment. The 1.4 aperture allows for a blurred background, creating a more soft look. If you are shooting with a Sony Mirrorless Camera I would suggest the Sigma Art 1.4 lens.




2. Baby Shusher:


A baby shusher is a handy tool for calming fussy newborns during photo sessions. These devices emit rhythmic shushing sounds that mimic the noises babies hear in the womb, helping to soothe and settle them. Incorporating a baby shusher into your sessions can create a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to capture those peaceful, sleepy moments that make for beautiful photographs.


3. Posing Aids:


Posing newborns requires patience, skill, and the right equipment. Posing aids such as bean bags, pillows, and wraps can help support and position the baby safely while allowing you to achieve those adorable curled-up poses that are so popular in newborn photography. Investing in quality posing aids not only ensures the comfort and safety of the baby but also helps you create stunning, professional-looking images. My favorite posing aids are sold by Modest Little Me. They have posing systems for table/bean bag posing buckets, baskets and my favorite most versatile aid is their folld-a-beans to lift baby as needed.


Professional newborn baby photos taken by Vanessa Keo Photography in Manchester, NH of baby boy in a yellow bear hat and wrap inside of a wooden honey bucket.

4. Neutral-Colored Wraps:


Neutral-colored wraps are essential for swaddling newborns and adding texture and depth to your photographs. Opting for neutral tones such as cream, beige, and soft gray allows the focus to remain on the baby, creating timeless and elegant images that will stand the test of time. These wraps also provide versatility, allowing you to create a variety of looks and styles to suit your clients' preferences. If are just starting out I would recommend purchasing some stretchy material from Michael's or Joanne's.


5. Editing Software Like Photoshop:


Once you've captured your images, editing software is essential for fine-tuning and enhancing your photographs. Programs like Adobe Photoshop offer a wide range of tools and features that allow you to adjust exposure, color balance, and composition to perfection. From removing blemishes to adding artistic effects, editing software gives you the flexibility to unleash your creativity and deliver polished, professional images to your clients.


In addition to these five essentials, there are a few other things to consider when starting your newborn photography business. Building a portfolio of your work, establishing a strong online presence through a website and social media platforms, and networking with other professionals in the industry can all help you attract clients and grow your business.


Furthermore, investing in ongoing education and training is crucial for honing your skills and staying current with the latest trends and techniques in newborn photography. Whether it's attending workshops, joining photography forums, or participating in online courses, continuing education can help you refine your craft and differentiate yourself in a competitive market.


Starting your own newborn photography business is a rewarding journey that allows you to capture and preserve precious memories for families to cherish for years to come. By equipping yourself with the right tools, skills, and knowledge, you can embark on this adventure with confidence and create stunning images that will delight your clients and stand the test of time.


award winning newborn photographer Vanessa Keo photo of baby boy wrapped in blue knitted wrap and bonnet inside a wooden moon prop with a sky backdrop taken in Boston, MA

Disclaimer:


Before embarking on your journey into newborn photography and investing in the top five essentials listed above, it's crucial to prioritize safety and skill development. Operating a camera in manual mode and receiving proper training in newborn safety techniques are essential prerequisites for anyone considering entering this specialized field. Additionally, we highly recommend completing a newborn safety course to ensure that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to handle and pose newborns safely during photo sessions. Safety should always be the top priority when working with newborns, and investing in education and training is key to providing a safe and professional experience for both you and your clients.


Vanessa Keo Photography is a full service studio located in Southern, NH serving the Greater Boston area and Southern, NH. 1 hour from Boston, Vanessa Keo is located in Merrimack, NH, near Nashua and Manchester, NH. If you are interested in a Newborn, Maternity or Baby photoshoots in the first year of your child's life. Submit a booking inquiry here. For additional information and pricing click here.

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Vanessa Keo Photography is located  in Merrimack, NH

Serving Southern New Hampshire and Northshore Massachusetts

vkeophotos@gmail.com

978-595-1865

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