Aren’t those sweet photos of sleeping newborns in dreamy backdrops, beautiful setups, and cute poses over the internet just amazing? No wonder why many new parents are inspired to achieve the same by doing their own DIY newborn photoshoot at home or hiring a professional newborn photographer.
But is it safe?
Experts warn not to attempt the same setups And safety in newborns is everything. Isn't that the reason why you try to find the right OB-GYN and checked the safety features of every baby fixture you bought, including the crib, baby seat, stroller, carrier, and others? Thus, you must apply that same dedication in making sure your little one is safe during a photoshoot. To help you do that, here are some newborn photography tips you should know about.
5 Tips to Keep Your Baby Safe During Newborn Photoshoots
Tip #1: Photoshop is key
Have you seen those cute newborn poses of babies holding their heads up with their hands? Or maybe those photos where babies are suspended in the air? You know, the photos that make you say “Aww”? Well, they are all fake. See, babies can’t hold their heads. On the other hand, you can’t just lift babies in the air and let them stay there until you get the perfect shot. So how are these photos made? Simple: photoshop.
The only way to achieve these photos safely is through composite photography. Meaning, two or more images are joined together to create one image. So in the case of babies holding their heads, the photographer will take two photos of you holding your baby’s head and blend them in photoshop. For photos of suspended babies, these are done on a bean bag, table, or floor with the background just edited.
For photographers who don’t know what they are doing, they may try to put your baby in such a position - which then puts your L.O in danger. This brings us to our next tip…
Tip #2: Always support your baby’s neck
Babies, especially newborns, have undeveloped neck muscles. It takes at least 6 months until these muscles fully develop. So whether you are having a DIY newborn photoshoot at home or with a professional, always insist on supporting your newborn’s head and make sure all the poses won’t cause any strain on the neck. You should also look out for unnatural poses or when your newborn is forced to bend too much as these are all unsafe.
Tip #3: Always wash your hands
When handling a newborn, having clean hands is a must. So wash your hands or at least use an alcohol or hand sanitizer when moving or holding the baby. Also, make sure that everyone involved in the photoshoot is doing the same. Speaking of hands...
Tip #4: Always have extra hands
When it comes to newborn baby photos, it’s important to always have an extra set of hands around. This is to guarantee your baby’s safety, especially in positions where he/she can move or fall. Whether it be on a bed, couch, bean bag, or even the floor, having a spotter within an arm’s reach is crucial to guaranteeing your baby’s safety.
Tip #5: Watch out for overheating
In newborn baby photoshoots, keeping the setup warm is a must. Then, babies would be put in a wrap to achieve that beautiful potato sack poses. To add support, multiple swaddles will then be added - which can all lead to overheating.
When babies are too hot, their breathing changes, and their heart rate increases, making them breathe too fast. This can also make them more irritable. While babies prefer warm conditions, they should never be too warm as it compromises their safety. So when doing photoshoots at home or having one with a newborn photographer, keep a close eye on your baby.
Now and then, make sure that your L.O’s skin isn’t too warm. Keep an eye on your baby’s breathing as well, making sure it’s steady and even. Other signs of overheating you should look out for include redness in the face, sweaty neckline, and mottled skin.
When it comes to your newborn and his/her safety, it’s okay to be extra cautious. If you are having a DIY photoshoot at home, all the more that you need to be careful since you will be new at it. If you are planning to photograph your baby on your own, here’s the last tip: stick with simple and natural poses.
On the other hand, when working with a photographer, you should never hesitate to say if you feel uncomfortable whether it’s about the poses or something else. Here's something you should always remember: You are the parent and your voice has the most value.
