When you think of lifestyle newborn photography, you may naturally think of more unposed, candid newborn photos. Even looking through a newborn lifestyle gallery, you will probably see those more natural, simple photos. However, to get those “candid” photos, it often takes a newborn photographer to guide those moments and create poses that feel candid.
As a lifestyle newborn photographer, I show up to these sessions with a game plan to guide and keep our session flowing, ensuring we get everything. Below are my top 5 “unposed” poses for lifestyle newborn photoshoots.
#1 Nursey Shots
Nursery photos are a timestamp piece for lifestyle newborn photos. Capturing those little details of the nursery is so important. I always look at the home before I begin a session to assess the size and lighting of each space. Many nurseries are small rooms in the house with limited space and light, so I tend to be more creative and mindful.
To ensure we get those special nursery shots, I love to ask parents to sit directly on the floor and hold their baby, maybe next to the crib or by a window. Having parents simply hold the baby outward and look down at the child in the nursery room tends to create a lovely, natural photo that focuses on love, the baby, and the room.
I also love to ask parents to simply stand in the middle of the room to capture holding the baby and get the whole room. I even like to peek through the door for a different, more intimate perspective.
# 2 Crib or Bassinet Shots
These shots are simple, timeless, and easy with the right lighting. But the lighting is key and so important.
As an in-home newborn photographer, I go into many different homes, and the lighting is always different. Once I look around, I will always suggest a spot near a window to capture the baby lying on its back. Sometimes we use a bassinet near the front door, and other times we simply use the crib right in the nursery. To “pose” this unposed photo, I pay attention to the best lighting seeping in through the window across from the newborn.
During solo pics of the baby, I like to take advantage of getting mom and dad holding the baby’s fingers or toes for those close-up shots. It’s also a great chance to get the sibling looking down at their sister or brother.
#3 The Burp Shot
Getting a good photo of mom, dad, or both with their newborn is a must, and this pose is one of my favorites. I always ask parents to hold their baby on their chest as if they were burping them. During our newborn photoshoot, I will show parents exactly how to position themselves to safely place their child on their chest, with the child looking at me. Once the baby is in that natural position, I ask parents to get close, and I start snapping pictures. These close-ups of the baby looking right into the camera are always precious and natural.
#4 Sit on the floor
Yep, we sit on the floor. It looks cool, and I can get lots of different angles. I love asking parents to play with their toddlers, tickle them, kiss them, while they hold the new baby. It’s natural to play on the floor in the comfort of your home.
#5 Bed Shots
This is another great option for a typical family pose right on the bed. The trick here is to make sure that everyone is super comfy and close with good posture. I always ask everyone to sit upright and look at each other, and then at the baby. I also ask parents to make sure that their newborn’s face is facing me while in their arms. It’s important we get their face in the photos just like everyone else.
Malinda Sloan
Fort Worth Newborn Photographer
Flower Mound Newborn Photographer
Malinda Sloan is a lifestyle newborn photographer located in Flower Mound, Texas.
