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Tips for Posing Newborns in Studio Photography

Photos of your newborn are a wonderful way to remember her earliest days. However, posing newborns can be tricky. Unlike older subjects, they can't smile or pose on command. Instead, you must rely on proper positioning and be ready to capture photo-worthy expressions and moments. To take high-quality studio photographs of your infant, follow some posing guidelines.

Use a Blanket
- Blankets create a natural frame in photos.
  
  By wrapping your newborn in an attractive blanket, not only do you keep him snug and warm, you frame him perfectly for a photograph. In general, leave the blanket loose to make the photo look natural. Choose a blanket in a color that complements your baby's eyes, skin, hair or clothing.
Leave Him Topless
- Show off your baby's pudgy tummy and legs.
  
  Few things are more adorable than a baby's pudgy tummy and legs. Consider leaving your baby topless, dressing him in only a cute diaper cover and maybe a hat. This adds visual interest and will accentuate how small, innocent and vulnerable your little one is.
Adjust Positioning
- You can pose your newborn for more artistic shots.
  
  Because a newborn spends most of her time sleeping, you can easily adjust her pose. Do this gently, being sure not to place her in an uncomfortable position. For maximum impact, pay attention to the details. For example, move her arms away from her face and tilt her head toward the camera.
Pay Careful Attention to Arms
- Capture your baby in action by paying attention to his arms.
  
  Newborns sometimes do interesting and eye-catching things with their arms. Watch for these moments and try to capture them. For these poses, the baby must be awake and unbound by a blanket. It's best to attempt these shots immediately after a diaper change or feeding.
Use a Container
- Use a container to frame your baby and add visual interest.
  
  If you can find a container, such as a tote or basket, that would photograph well, consider placing your baby inside it. These poses can be quite attractive and interesting. Make sure the container will be safe and comfortable for your baby.
Make It a Family Photo
- Pictures that feature the newborn with her parents are classic.
  
  Include yourselves as parents in at least some of the photos. One way to do this is to take a close-up of the baby cradled in your arms. You can also lie next to the baby and pose for a head shot of you and him together.
Capture Tiny Hands and Feet
- Take pictures of your newborn's tiny hands and feet for sentimental memories.
  
  A baby's tiny feet and hands make wonderful photo subjects on their own. Take a few pictures of them to remind yourself of how small she once was. You can take photos that are natural or pose your baby for more artistic shots. For natural photos, take pictures of your baby's feet and hands as the baby lies on a blanket, without making adjustments. Her fingers should remain curled and her feet will assume different positions. For a more artistic shot, consider cupping your baby's hands or feet in your palm or position them so that they are just barely sticking out from under a blanket.

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