My Top 6 Must Have Newborn Photos to Capture

My Top 6 Newborn Photos to Capture

Newborn photography has been one of my specialties for over a decade (click here to see my newborn portrait gallery). I absolutely love documenting this monumental time in a family’s life. There is nothing like it. Over that period of time I have taken a lot of photos, used a lot of props and put a lot of babies in a lot of adorable poses. As a result of this experience as an Andover newborn photographer, I have come up with my top 6 must have newborn shots that I take at every newborn session.

Keep reading to see examples of my favorite newborn poses. And don’t forget to check out our Newborn Photography Inspiration Pinterest board to see more!

1. A newborn photo with parents

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I know what you’re thinking. You just gave birth (a.k.a you just ran a marathon), plus there’s spit-up on your shirt, you haven’t slept in a week, and basically you do not want your photo taken. I totally understand. Just trust me on this one. These photos won’t just be for you (although I’m sure you will end up enjoying them) but for your kids as they grow older, and even their kids in future generations.

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2. Your baby’s size in context

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The saying “they grow so fast” is absolutely true. Your little one is tiny and adorable right now. One day you’ll look at your little toddler (or teenager!) and it’ll be hard to imagine how tiny they once were. Solo newborn photos of the baby don’t showcase just how small they are. So I always try to get at least one shot in context that truly shows how teeny tiny they are. This can mean baby in mom’s or dad’s arms, or maybe even next to something that baby can grow up alongside like a stuffed animal.

3. All the details of your newborn

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Those lips, new lashes, tiny fingers and kissable toes. These are all the little details that not only make your little one who they are, but they’re also the things you’ll miss the most as your tiny one grows into a big one! One day you’ll look back at those baby fingers and toes and cry because you can’t believe how fast time flies. Having these detail newborn portraits will help you remember those tiny toes.

4. A close up of your baby’s face

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Let’s be real, you probably stare at your new baby’s face for a good portion of the day. And there’s a pretty good chance you say on a daily basis how much you want to squeeze/pinch/nibble on their chubby cheeks. Well, this is why I make sure I get some shots that showcase those cheeks! Certain newborn poses are ideal for getting a good shot of that sweet little face. One of my personal favorites is of baby’s face resting on their arms. So sweet, and one that parents request a lot.

5. A full body shot

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Whether swaddled or naked, this is a shot that can be captured in a variety of ways. A full body portrait can be tailored to the parents’ style. Not a fan of props? That’s okay! I have a variety of blankets and furs that work perfectly for this shot. Of course, it can also work with props if that’s your jam. Either way, this shot is all about seeing your baby in all their glory. The rolls, the wrinkles, the belly.

6. Tushee in the air

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What can I say? I just love this shot. Normally I wouldn’t give a specific pose as a “must have” but this one really has a little bit of everything you want to remember. Your baby’s full body, baby wrinkles and rolls, and a clear shot of baby’s face. Not many other poses can tick all of those boxes. And there are so many different ways to capture this. On a blanket or fur, or even on a prop. The little leg danglin’ on a prop or in your arm is a personal favorite of mine.

Honorable Mention: The happy surprises.

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Other happy surprises include shots of the baby awake and alert. Most of the time, newborns are fast asleep during their session, but sometimes they just don’t want to miss out on the fun and they stay awake! And then there are some that happen organically that make for funny keepsakes, like an adorable crying face or big yawn. 

These are the shots that I can’t plan for, but every time I’m able to capture one I’m thrilled. The most recognizable (and for some the most hoped for) is the smile. You can’t make a newborn smile, but every so often in their sleep they’ll give a big one. This is basically like getting a picture of a double rainbow!

Crabapple Photography is a full service photography studio located in Andover, MA and serving clients throughout the Greater Boston, North Shore and Southern New Hampshire. Kate McKenna is an Andover newborn photographer with over 11 years experience. Contact Kate today to book your own newborn session.

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    Welcome to Crabapple Photography! I'm Kate and I've been a family portrait photographer since 2009. My specialty is newborns, babies and children. We have fun! My style is clean and whimsical and I am a detail person.

    My studio is located in Andover, MA and I proudly photograph families in the North Shore of MA, Greater Boston and Southern NH areas. I also offer on location outdoor sessions as well.

    Contact me today!

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