5 Tips for Creating the Best Studio Environment for Newborn Photography
Newborn photography is a very special kind of photography. You’re able to freeze time with a photograph that the parents will cherish for the rest of the lives. But, because newborn photography requires you to get up close and personal with your subject, creating the right studio environment is paramount. You want your studio to be welcoming to parents but also a calm environment for newborns and for you to focus on your work. So, how do you set up your studio for newborn photoshoots? Well, it's not too difficult; you just need to keep a few things in mind.
Ensure you have a clean and hygienic space
The cleanliness of your studio will affect your newborn’s experience during their photo shoot. Throughout your studio you should make sure that you have cleaned and disinfected all surfaces, especially in between sessions if you have multiple in one day.
Keeping your studio stocked with hand sanitizer to stay on the safe side is a must. Your subject is a newborn; they aren't going to know if there's a slight dust build-up or a streak of dust on the floor. But you and their parents will, and you want to build good reputation for your business.
Add some warmth
Newborns prefer warm temperatures, and most often in newborn photography the baby is naked. You must keep this in mind when you’re setting your thermostat. Keeping your studio warmer than average is a must. Somewhere around 77 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit is a common consensus across newborn photographers, some even choose to go warmer. Babies are also most relaxed in a warm environment as they have become so accustomed to the warmth in the womb.
If you have access to space heaters, use them. Not only will they keep the baby warmer, and therefore happier, but it will also allow you to have a direct source of heat. If you notice signs of the baby becoming cold, you can go ahead and turn on the space heater and it will help build the temperature up without the entire room becoming too warm.
Turn up the White Noise
Through the newborn stage babies are being overwhelmed with new noises and sounds that are unfamiliar to them. White noise offers a consistent sound that is soothing and gentle without over stimulating them. This will help the newborn feel more at ease and help you get better shots. White noise can also help mask the sound of talking and camera shutter. The use of white noise may even help the newborn to fall and stay asleep as you’re working through poses.
Props & Styling
With newborn photography comes lots of props, which can be overwhelming at first. Finding a way to keep these organized is essential to creating a calming studio. Having versatile storage within your studio is a great way to have easy access to your props while also keeping them tucked away. Cabinets with doors are a great solution for larger baskets and pillows. Dressers can be used to tuck larger wraps, blankets, and outfits in, and then display accessories on top.
Prior to the session, set aside the props that you are planning to use. This may be centered around a certain style or color. These details have most likely been discussed in prior meeting with the babies parents. But, setting those items aside prior to the start will keep things simple and you won’t have to pause during the session to grab props.
Gathering a collection of newborn photography props will take time, so don’t feel pressured into buying it all at once. Start out with a few pieces at a time, learn what your style is and how you want to curate your collection. Before you know it, you will have plenty of prop options!
Check the lighting before your shoot
The lighting of your studio will affect your newborn’s experience during their photo shoot. Ask yourself a few questions before choosing your lighting, including what you want the mood to be like (warm and cozy, bright and cheerful, etc.). You will want to achieve consistency with light through all your newborn sessions whether it is dark and gloomy out or a bright sunny day. This may mean you choose to turn using artificial light so that you have full control.
Conclusion
The first few times you do a newborn photoshoot, you may feel a bit uncomfortable and out of your element. This is, after all, a very specific niche. But there is just something about a new baby that makes them great subjects. With a bit of practice, you might find that this is one of your favorite types of photography, and if so, then the tips in this article will prove to be very helpful.
Remember, you want the newborn to feel relaxed and comfortable while they’re in the studio, so you need to make sure the space is warm, and you have the sounds of white noise playing. As well as keeping up with regular disinfecting and organization to create a great environment for the parents as well.
