Baby (Infant) Photo Techniques

[japan05]

I am about to have my first child any day now and I cannot wait to take a lot of photos, but I was wondering if you are able to use the flash when taking pictures of an infant? Heard a few different things and I was not sure how to proceed. Thanks!

[ljameso1]

The camera in my hospital's nursery uses flash if what you are asking if it will hurt the baby. Lighting would be more pleasing if diffused the flash though.

[JulieM]

Wow! Very exciting times for you! Remember, the baby will be sleeping a lot so you won't need to fear hurting his/her eyes. Can't wait to see pictures!

[Grant]

In the old days people would not use flash on new babies as the bulbs were know to explode. I am not sure if the light output will harm the baby and is suspect not but it would be best to ask you doctor.

Lindaj is right about the diffused flash. If you have a camera that can bounce the flash try that. If you camera will not allow for that add a diffuser over the flash. The diffuser need to be nothing more complex than a white hanky. My advice for shooting babies is to get down to their level, focus on the eyes and shoot tons of images as they are only that age for a short while.

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[japan05]

Wow -

As always, I think you guys on this forum are amazing and provide excellent information for us newbies.... I appreciate the advice and I will be sure to post some pics. Thanks!!!!

[Wendy]

Oh that is great news ... look forward to seeing photos of the baby :)

Wendy

[kImages]

Congratulations, what an exciting time for you.

Move the baby close to a window. Window light softened by sheer drapery makes for some very nice soft light.

As Grant suggests get level with the baby, and zoom in close, watch for distracting backgrounds.

[lexcell]

First off, congratulations on your upcoming new bundle of joy.
There has been some excellent advice posted here to help you to capture some wonderful images of your new baby.
As Grant mentions, diffuse your flash if you are going to use it...you want soft light to compliment the softness of a baby. Move in very close with your light, it will soften as it moves closer to your subject.
Diffused window light is also an excellent source of soft light as Kim suggests.
Move in tight and capture the details of your new babies hands, feet, nose, etc. Fill the frame with face shots...
Photograph the babies hand wrapped around a finger for size contrast, etc...simply take lot's and lot's of pics...this time is short and precious.

[Bob_Benner]

Congrats on your soon to be new baby. Yep, take as many pictures as you can. My son is 2 1/2 now and there hasn't been a single day that has gone by since he was born that I haven't taken a picture of him.

[JulieM]

Congrats on your soon to be new baby. Yep, take as many pictures as you can. My son is 2 1/2 now and there hasn't been a single day that has gone by since he was born that I haven't taken a picture of him.

Hey, that reminds me, Bob. How about a posting a recent picture of Nicholas??????? :)

[kimi_boo]

Dig around in here.
http://nordstromphoto.typepad.com/blog/photography/index.html

She does some amazing baby shots! :)