Essential equipment for newborn

[emmylou]

Hi, What are the essential items required for photographing a newborn? Im taking some shots for my friend on friday and have no clue what to take with me. I want them to look realy special for her, as she has been through a hard time lately. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[MrJones]

well.. nothing is essential except for the camera
the more you invest the more special it will be. I'm talking about things like backdrops in different colors, cradles, hats and even lenses and strobes.
what I'm trying to say is, it can get quite expensive so you need to decide what KIND of newborn photos do you want to take and then it will be easier to help you.

[faeriegodess612]

I'd say if you want ideas,... go to this womans website. I think shes awesome and shes a natural light photographer. Also,... whatever you do,...notice how she usually places the baby on their stomach, or has something covering their belly button if they're on their back. It's nasty to see the dried up scabby bit of umbilical cord.

Angela Breckenridge Photography | Killeen's Premier Newborn and Baby Photographer

A goodish sized pillow, and some nice blankets would be my suggestions. Oh,... and dont place the baby on a table or any other surface that they can fall from. The floor or in the middle of a bed is better.

[rmclem]

Im new to photographing newborns and have been amazed by all the little props. Some are pricey for beginners like me but looking at all the vendors out there has got my creative juices flowing AND there is a HUGE giveaway going on that you can enter. I am fans of Ellie Bellie Designs on Etsy and she is part of the giveaway along with quite a few other vendors. The blog is Love By CC: HUGE 5k Fan & Appreciation Giveaway

and if you are on facebook the page is Love By CC. Good luck!!!

[NicolaB]

Are you or are you going to go pro?

If so, I would recommend that you try shooting your friends baby first BEFORE you buy any props - unless you simply adore babies. I know of many pro photographers who dislike newborn sessions. They are hard work and probably not the most cost effective use of your time.

I have done three and love them. Each one took between 2 and 4 hours with only a few minutes shooting time. The last one I went to, we gave up at 4 hours as baby would not stop crying. You can perhaps start to see why it just isn't some peoples bag.

However, in answer to your question, going against all advice about NOT buying any props, I got a couple of blankets, a bean bag and some clips to hold the blankets in place. I couldn't resist a few hats from Ebay, but they are really not necessary and I don't think they are going to fly in the UK market.

Just a black blanket would get you some creative shots too - Susan1970 did a post a while back on how to do the head in hands shot if you search.

hth