First newborn shots

[KUlmer]

I got to take my first newborn shots. Unfortunately, the little guy was a couple weeks old by the time I got there. The stretching that is so cute when you are the bystander is a little tougher when you are the photographer. Also, I realize afterwards that becase of the low light I had to open my aperature and I didn't get the focus lined up 100% in some photos. They look a little soft. Still, I think we made out okay.

Here is one of my favorites even though it was one of the "soft" ones. I'm looking for general opinions and especially what do you think about the one eye being in the shadow like it is. It was kinda unavoidable, but is it a deal breaker? I think it kinda works in this shot, but was wondering everyone's opinions.




Nikon D5000, No Flash
ISO 800, 50mm, 1/45 sec.

[SuperDan]

love the catchlight, beautiful eye
but honestly the composition is off

i feel that softness is okay in baby photography as you want them to be soft like...
recommend maybe converting to bw and vignetting ..

sorry to be harsh and dont be offended...

[kristenh]

probably not so terrible that the babe was 2 weeks old- newborns have a ton of skin and head shape weirdnesses that take some time to work out...

maybe try a similar shot with a warm neutral color to the thingie he is lying on? based on my vast knowledge of color, based mainly on being a mom to three very pale kids and having to dress them daily (and of course look at my own photos of them), black is a little harsh. my boys look excellent in pink and pale blue. half dead in black and way too pale in white. fwiw. one of the reasons his lower face is so dark is b/c the blanket doesn't reflect a bit of light. an ivory colored one would.

also, with him in this position, given that i'm assuming he has zilch in the way of head control, what about positioning yourself down nearer his chin and looking up at his face more?

he's got beautiful eyes and i'm happy with how you lit them. i wouldn't be bothered to see you crop some off the right and some off the bottom...