Professional Newborn Photographer Northern Ireland

Becoming a mom is how I got into photography because let’s face it - everything they do is picture worthy.  


If you're not quite sure if a newborn photoshoot is for you, this article will offer really useful tips on how to explore the idea further. Who doesn’t want FREE newborn photography tips from a professional photographer?!


Please note, these tips are for smartphone use only. They should only be paired with safety and great care of the baby's well-being. Make sure the baby is never left alone, especially in unsafe poses. When in doubt, use a spotter!


Poses like the one shown here require professional skills.  These can be harmful to baby's joints and airways if not done by an expert. Leave this one to the professionals, folks.

Tip 1: Timing is everything 


Whether you’re doing DIY newborn photography or going to a professional, your photo shoot will go a lot more smoothly if you tend to baby’s basic needs beforehand. 


I always ask mommas to make sure their baby is sleepy and hungry before arriving at the studio. So right before you get started, you should feed, burp, and quickly change baby’s nappy. 


Once you’ve taken care of that, you’ll be ready to go. 







Pro Tip:

I also make sure the room is nice and toasty. Make sure that if you’re after one of those cute naked bum baby photos, he/she won’t wake up and get cranky because they’re too cold.





Pro Tip:

I also make sure the room is nice and toasty. Make sure that if you’re after one of those cute naked bum baby photos, he/she won’t wake up and get cranky because they’re too cold.

Tip 2:


One set of shots I make sure to include in your gallery is attention to your baby’s tiny details, especially of baby’s face: lips, nose, ears, eyelashes, as well as fingers and toes.


Newborn pictures aren’t just about how you pose the baby, it’s about capturing your little ones exactly how they are in that moment. 

All in the details


You want an opportunity to watch them grow, but the fine details are what tug at the heartstrings for me.


Pro Tip: The position of the lens (camera phone) is important as well. You should shoot these details from a 45 degree angle to get the best photo. 

Tip 3: Use Natural Light


Find a window in your home that gets great light. I highly recommend spending a couple of days just noting which room in your house has the best morning light.  


Harsh, bright sunlight isn’t ideal either, so when that happens make sure you use sheer white curtains to soften the light. The gentle glow from the curtains will act as a light box and create the most flattering light.

Pro Tip:

This rule isn’t just for baby photography, any portrait/selfie will benefit from this tip.  

Pro Tip:

This rule isn’t just for baby photography, any portrait/selfie will benefit from this tip.  

Tip 4: Look Aroung


It surprises me how many mommas don’t pay attention to what’s around when they share photos of their precious baby on social media. You don’t need to have a spotless room, but keep in mind whatever you’re including in your shot helps tell the story of what’s happening in that moment. The background can either distract or support your photo. 


So, my suggestion is to find a corner of the room, or better yet, an area near that window we talked about to frame your baby. Make sure to include his/her favorite stuffed animal or special blanket gifted to them by your Aunt Jane. 

Tip 5: Let them play


Don’t forget brother and sister! 


This one is for mommas with multiple children. You get to play Parent Paparazzi! The key to this one is being ready for the right moment.  If you’re using a smartphone, feel free to snap away. You’re bound to get a few good ones purely thanks to probability. 


Have his/her siblings interact with the baby. These are great prompts for younger siblings to interact with their new baby sister/brother.

“Give Baby Hannah kisses!” 

“Everyone gently touch Baby Hannah...ok now look at me” 

“Colin, tell Baby Hannah about your favourite toy and show her what’s so cool about it”

Pro Tip:

Swaddle your baby and have brother/sister sit on the sofa to hold the tightly wrapped bundle of joy.  It’s a sweet yet safe moment!

Pro Tip:

Swaddle your baby and have brother/sister sit on the sofa to hold the tightly wrapped bundle of joy.  It’s a sweet yet safe moment!

Tip 6: Editing


Ok, photo editing your DIY baby session is a little tricky. If you’re using your smartphone, you’re a little limited with what you can do. The good news is, there are tons of mobile-friendly editing apps you can use such as Adobe Lightroom (mobile), Canva, and TouchReTouch. You can find a really helpful list here.


So, unless you’re using a DSLR camera you were gifted at Christmas, manual mode suggestions really aren’t for you. I’m hoping to create another blog soon that will be specifically for you guys with shiny new cameras.


Pro Tip: You can go into your photo edit settings and lower the highlights to help pick up on skin details. 

I've got you


I’m all for capturing memories however possible, so give these tips a go and let me know how you get on. If you have a bit of trouble, don’t panic! Click here to give me a shout and I’ll make sure we get gorgeous professional photos of your baby.