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Learning your gear is essential — whether you’re starting with a used camera or a brand-new one.
Take time to practice first. Photograph still objects, simple scenes, and different subjects so you truly understand light, exposure, and how your camera responds — before working with tiny humans.
Those early practice sessions build confidence, muscle memory, and technical skill — and they make everything easier once you’re holding a newborn.https://www.facebook.com/groups/anabrandt Join our free Photographers group.
code save60 takes off 60% and give you endless resources.
Where to Start With Newborn Photography
Welcome to the beautiful world of newborn photography. Asking “Where do I start?” is the right question — because newborn photography is unlike any other genre.
Before props, poses, or elaborate setups, the first priority is understanding the baby:
how to properly support their head and neck
safe positioning and spotting
temperature awareness and overheating risks
when to pause, soothe, and let baby rest
recognizing discomfort or stress signals
A great photograph is never worth risking a baby’s safety.
Knowledge + patience = calm sessions and confident parents.
So where do you learn this? You can attend in person workshops, learn online or study books.
Learn from Others
When I started, there weren’t many resources. I just… started — no mentor, no classes — and I wish I’d had guidance.
If you’re able, an in-person workshop is ideal. You can:
watch real sessions unfold
see lighting setups in action
observe safe handling and soothing techniques
understand posing flow
learn what gear truly matters (and what doesn’t!)
Too often I see photographers invest heavily in props they don’t need. Start with camera + light + safety — then build slowly and intentionally.
My highest recommendation: Begin with an in-person workshop if you can. It shortens the learning curve and builds safe habits from day one. https://www.anabrandteducation.com you will find my remaining workshops. Our 4 day academies are life changing as you are immersed in newborn photography for 4 straight days. I have recently wrapped up 18 years of teaching and have certified trainers worldwide that are available. https://www.anabrandteducation.com/certified-photographers-1
Can’t Attend In-Person Yet?
Online learning is a wonderful way to begin — and you can revisit lessons anytime.
I’ve created a full online school designed specifically for newborn and maternity photographers:
👉 www.bellybabyschool.com
(Currently 70% off through 12/31 with code SAVE70)
For beginners, start with:
How to Be a Newborn Photographer
Newborn Safety & Handling
You can also grab Lifetime access and have information at your fingertips from marketing to editing and everything in between.
These will help you feel prepared before you step into a session.
Step-By-Step Guides & Workflows
If you love visual checklists and instructions, my PDF guides break everything down simply:
👉 https://www.anabrandteducation.com/store
You’ll find resources on wrapping, posing flow, editing, studio prep, and more — perfect for building confidence and structure.
Props & Essentials — Without Overspending
You don’t need everything at once. A small collection of well-chosen pieces goes a long way.
We design wraps, outfits, and fabrics made specifically for newborn photographers:
👉 www.shopanabrandt.com
(worldwide shipping)
And my downloadable e-books help you understand what you truly need as you grow:
👉 https://shopanabrandt.com/store/e-books
They’re a great way to learn quickly — and avoid costly mistakes.
Final Encouragement
Take your time. Practice. Learn your gear. Respect the baby first, always.
Newborn photography is a blend of artistry, patience, and deep care — and everyone starts exactly where you are now.
Things You Must Know Before Photographing Newborns
Newborn photography is not just about posing — it’s about understanding tiny bodies that are still developing. We can’t stress enough that you should learn how to use your camera and always have a safety strap on the camera. Once you understand your camera, then it’s time to master your subject.
Here are essentials every photographer should know before working with babies:
✔️ Newborn Physiology & Development
Newborns cannot support their own heads — the neck must always be supported.
Their joints and hips are delicate; improper posing can cause injury.
Circulation is still developing — watch for purple/blue toes or hands (a sign to reposition).
Their immune systems are fragile, so your studio must be clean and sanitized.
✔️ Safe Posing Principles
Never force a pose. If the baby resists — stop.
Composite images should be used for advanced poses (hands always supporting the baby).
Always have a spotter close — especially for props, baskets, and high surfaces.
Avoid tight wraps that restrict breathing or movement.
✔️ Temperature & Comfort
Babies lose heat quickly — the room should be comfortably warm.
Overheating is just as dangerous — avoid hot lights and thick layers.
Look for cues like sweating, rapid breathing, or flushed skin and adjust immediately.
✔️ Hygiene & Health Protocols
Wash and sanitize hands frequently.
Use freshly washed fabrics each session.
Reschedule if you or anyone in the household is ill.
Keep nails trimmed and avoid jewelry that could scratch.
✔️ Reading Baby Cues
Learning to read a newborn is one of your greatest tools:
rooting = hungry
stiff, arching body = discomfort
hiccups, sneezing, or yawning = tired or overstimulated
sudden crying during a pose = reposition or soothe
A calm baby leads to calm parents — and smoother sessions.
✔️ Parent Communication
Set expectations before the session:
explain you are new and still learning
explain safety practices
discuss feeding + breaks
remind parents that the baby is in charge of the pace
reassure them that fussing is normal
Clear communication builds trust — and trust keeps clients returning.
