Top 10 Tips for Taking Newborn Photos at Home

As a professional Boston based newborn photographer, I’ve spent over 2 decades capturing the tiniest details and fleeting expressions of newborns for families across Boston. While studio sessions are always special, I also understand that not every family can book one right away, especially in those early, sleep deprived days. If you're planning to take newborn photos at home, I’m here to help you make the most of it with these tried-and-true tips!

1. Timing is everything
The best time to photograph your newborn is within the first 5 to 14 days after birth. Babies are sleepiest and most curled up during this window, making it easier to pose them naturally.

2. Keep the room warm
Babies love warmth. Crank up the heat or use a space heater to keep the room cozy—around 78–80°F. A warm baby is a sleepy baby, and a sleepy baby is much easier to photograph.

3. Use natural light
Turn off overhead lights and position your baby near a large window. Soft, indirect natural light is flattering and minimizes harsh shadows. Late morning light tends to work beautifully.

4. Declutter your background
Before you snap that photo, check what’s behind your baby. A simple blanket or sheet in a neutral tone works wonders and keeps the focus on your little one.

5. Keep baby safe
This can’t be overstated: Never put your baby in a risky pose or position. Avoid props that aren’t sturdy or surfaces that could tip. If you’re unsure, stick with baby lying safely on their back or side.

6. Use white noise
To keep baby calm and settled, use a white noise machine or a phone app. It mimics the womb and can help lull your baby into that perfect sleepy state.

7. Capture the details
Don’t forget those tiny fingers, toes, eyelashes, and lips! Use your phone or camera’s macro setting to get close-ups—those details are what you’ll treasure most.

8. Dress simply
Sometimes less is more. A plain onesie, a swaddle, or even just a diaper works well. Avoid loud patterns or logos that can distract from your baby’s face.

9. Get in the frame
You might not feel “photo-ready,” but trust me—you’ll want to remember this time. Use a tripod or ask a partner to snap a few shots of you snuggling your baby. Natural, unposed moments are the most meaningful.

10. Edit lightly
Once you have your photos, you can enhance them a bit. Apps like Lightroom Mobile or Snapseed can help you adjust brightness and warmth. Just don’t overdo it—newborns are perfect just the way they are.

Taking newborn photos at home can be a beautiful experience filled with emotion and connection. While nothing replaces a professional session, these tips will help you create keepsake memories you’ll cherish forever.

If you're in the Boston area and want to schedule a professional session—whether at home or in-studio—I'd love to chat! At Alternate Angles Photography, I specialize in capturing the beauty, honesty, and love in every new beginning.

Laura Pineda
Alternate Angles Photography, Boston, MA