Newborn photos with black background

[t blanchard]

I was reading some of the threads here about photographing newborns, and noticed that people recommended having a black sheet. But I also know when photographing someone against black you don't want light to hit the black surface, or it won't look truly black.

My question is this - since I can't use light or flash for a newborn, do I dial down my exposure comp, or should I focus on getting the black in post processing?

thanks for any advice!

[kelleyrie]

I have no clue but I would like to know this as well

[private]

Why can't you use light for a newborn? I understand the flash (when they are awake)...

I use lights that are constantly on - PLUS it keeps the baby nice and warm... And if the background does not turn out 100% black, I just paint it at 15% opacity... Have not had any real problems tho'...

[t blanchard]

Originally Posted by private

Why can't you use light for a newborn? I understand the flash (when they are awake)...

I use lights that are constantly on - PLUS it keeps the baby nice and warm... And if the background does not turn out 100% black, I just paint it at 15% opacity... Have not had any real problems tho'...

Yeah, sorry - I wasn't very clear. I know general lights are okay, but since those are unfocused I know they would spill onto the black background.

But it's a good point that they will keep the baby warm, and I guess I can work on the darkness level in PP.

thank you!!