Taking newborn pictures

[semperaggie]

I have been reading old threads about newborns on here and have gotten a lot of great posing ideas.

I just have a few questions about the actual process:

1) I have heard different opinions about flash. The general idea I have gotten is that it is okay to use flash if they are sleeping but not if they are awake?

2) I want to set up a black background but I don't have a stand. Any easy/inexpensive solutions for rigging one up? I did buy a bean bag which I am covering with a waterproof mattress cover and a black sheet

3) any other suggestions about taking pictures of newborns?

thank you!

[jenmazy]

I use flash on newborns all the time. Some do not like it and if it wakes them up (rare) I will just set up in a window and use natural light. The easiest way to hang a black drop without a stand would be to just tack it to the wall.

Beanbag tip, buy extra beans or stuff it with a towel. It will keep the baby from sinking in deep.

Best tip... space heater. I have a small space heater that hums quietly and keeps babies warm and sleepy. Just be careful not to get it too close. Be sure to wear light clothing because you will be sweating :)

[photopam]

If you are just taking pics of the newborn, I would just drape the backdrop over the couch and smooth it out. I have done this many times and it works great! It gets the baby off the ground and it's a little easier on you back. I don't use a bean bag, but I have seen it used at picture people where they twist the top of it to keep the baby from sinking.

If you are wanting to add mom/dad/other sibs in, then you might want to invest in a backdrop stand.

I use flash for my newborns, even when they are awake.

I love newborns! They are great. Have fun!