Newborn shoot this weekend! A question!

[stitchbug]

My friend just had a baby, and I am going over there tomorrow to take some pictures. I'll be bringing a black and white sheet for backdrops.
I've never really done anything like this before.
My main question is: I remember reading somewhere about having a light between the backdrop and subject, shining on the backdrop- is that right or am I completely mistaken?
Any tips would be wonderful as well!

[jcoyle]

For newborn photos I would go with totally natural light. Depending on how old they are you shouldn't be using lights anyways. I shot an 8 day old yesterday with only window light and that was plenty.

My only word of advice is to be patient with newborns. My average shoots take about 4 hours. Lots of time for cuddles and feeding. (for the newborn, not me. I can go a while without the cuddles). If you have a space heater, take it. It keeps them really sleepy while shooting. Keep it as simple as possible. Black and white backdrops are great. If you are shooting the baby in the buff be prepared to get peed or pooped on. It happens every time.

Have fun. I love shooting newborns. They make the best models ever.

[stitchbug]

Thanks for the advice!

[mstark70]

I generally only use natural lighting myself. You can check out these set ups on this Flickr link as well for some great ideas. Good luck and I cant wait to see some of your photos.
Flickr: baby session setup

[CatcherT]

Im assuming you went there by now, I would LOVE to see the shots!