If you’re looking for some creative inspiration for your next baby photoshoot, look no further! Outdoor photoshoots can be a lot of fun and provide some amazing photo opportunities. However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you want to make the most of your session. In this blog post, I will discuss some tips for having a successful outdoor baby photoshoot.
Hiring a professional photographer or DIY?
One of the first things you need to decide when planning an outdoor baby photoshoot is whether you will hire a professional photographer or attempt to take the photos yourself. If you have already read some of the articles I wrote in this blog, you already know I’m a big fan of DIY. I believe that anyone can take great photos if they have the right guidance.
However, there are certain situations where it makes more sense to hire a professional photographer. If you are not confident in your ability to take good photos, or if you simply don’t have the time to plan and execute a photoshoot, it might be worth hiring someone to do it for you.
The most important thing is to make sure you are comfortable with your decision and that you will be happy with the results. If you decide to go the DIY route, there are plenty of resources available to help you get started, including this blog!
When it Comes to Taking Pictures, Timing is Everything
First and foremost, it is important to consider the time of day when planning your photoshoot. The lighting can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your photos. For example, if you are hoping for a softer, more natural look, shooting during the golden hour (the hour before sunset) is often ideal. However, if you are wanting a brighter, more vibrant feel, shooting during the middle of the day may be better suited.
It is also important to take into consideration the time of year when planning your shoot. For example, if you live in an area with harsh winters, it may not be ideal to schedule an outdoor photoshoot during this time. In this case, it may be better to wait for spring or summer when the weather is more mild.
Themes First
Setting a theme for a baby photoshoot is one of my favorite things to do. It helps to add a bit of creativity and personality to the photos. If you choose a theme that interests you, this will affect your location, props, clothing, and more. So it’s important to first decide whether you want a themed photoshoot for your baby.
Some popular themes for baby photoshoots include:
- Your favorite movie or a TV show
- Disney characters or movies.
- Dressing for a holiday like Halloween, Christmas, or Easter.
- A day in the life. This could include photos of your baby playing, eating, sleeping, etc.
Once you have decided on a theme, the next step is to start planning the details.
Planning Your Location
When it comes to outdoor photoshoots, there are endless possibilities for locations. However, it is important to choose a location that will complement your vision for the shoot. If you are wanting a more natural feel, consider shooting in a park or nature reserve. For a more urban feel, try shooting in downtown area or near interesting architecture.
Whatever location you choose, be sure to scout it out ahead of time to get an idea of the best places to shoot. This will help you make the most of your time on the day of the shoot.
My favorite outdoor locations for a baby photoshoot:
- The park: There are many parks that have beautiful gardens, ponds, and bridges that make for a stunning backdrop. The downside to shooting in a park is that it can be crowded, especially on weekends. Try to find a time that will be less crowded, such as early morning or weekdays.
- The beach: The beach is a great place to shoot if you are hoping for a more natural feel. The downside is that the weather can be unpredictable and it can be difficult to find a time when the light is perfect. I would try to get some pictures at the golden hour (as mentioned before) but this may require some photographing skills in order to get the perfect shot.
- Downtown: Downtown areas often have a lot of interesting architecture and can provide a great urban feel. The downside is that they can be quite crowded, especially during peak hours. I would recommend finding a time when the area is less crowded, such as early morning or evening.
Props, Props, Props!
Another great way to add some creativity to your outdoor baby photoshoot is to use props! Props can be used to add interest, color, and texture to your photos. For example, you could use a blanket or quilt as a backdrop, or incorporate some fresh flowers into the shoot.
If you decide to use props, be sure to choose ones that complement your vision for the shoot and that will work well with your chosen location. You don’t want to choose props that are too big or bulky, as they can be difficult to transport and set up.
Posing Ideas for a Baby Photoshoot
One of the great things about outdoor photoshoots is that there are endless possibilities for posing. You can get creative and have some fun with it! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Have your baby sit or lie down on a blanket or quilt. This is a great way to add some color and texture to the photo.
- Have one of the parents hold the baby while the other takes the picture. This is a great way to capture some candid shots as well as some cute family photos.
- Incorporate some fresh flowers into the shoot. You could have your baby hold a single flower, or lay down among a bed of flowers.
- Use props to add interest and variety to your photos. For example, you could have your baby sit in a wagon or stroller, or play with some toys.
- Get creative with your angles. Try shooting from above, or lying on the ground to get a different perspective.
Picking the Right Outfit
One of the most important aspects of any photoshoot is choosing the right outfit. When picking an outfit for your baby, you’ll want to consider the location and overall feel of the shoot. For example, if you are shooting at the beach, you may want to dress your baby in something light and airy. If you are shooting in a more urban area, you may want to dress your baby in something with a bit more texture.
Whatever you decide, be sure to avoid busy patterns or logos as they can be distracting. You’ll also want to make sure that the outfit is comfortable and that your baby will be able to move freely in it.
Setting the Scene
Once you have scouted out the perfect location and gathered all of your props, it’s time to set the scene! This is where you’ll decide on the overall look and feel of the shoot. You’ll want to consider things like the lighting, composition, and background.
Actually, it’s not that complicated. All you need to do is find a place with even lighting and a background that you like. Try taking pictures from different angles and with different compositions to see what looks best.
A list of all The Gear you’ll Need:
Nothing crazy here, yet no one wants to drive for an hour and a half to their favorite park just to understand they forgot their blanket.
-Your camera, of course. If you don’t have one, a smartphone’s camera will do just fine. You can read my guide on how to use your iPhone for a photoshoot.
-A tripod will be incredibly helpful in getting those family shots where everyone is looking at the camera and smiling.
-A blanket or quilt to use as a backdrop and for added color and texture in your photos.
-Fresh flowers to add some beauty and romance to the shoot.
-Props to use for interest and variety in your photos. Try to choose props that complement your vision for the shoot and that will work well with your chosen location.
-Comfortable clothes for your baby that won’t be too hot or too cold and that won’t restrict their movement.
-Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your baby from the sun.
-Bug spray to keep the bugs away!
-A first aid kit, just in case.
-Snacks and drinks for you and your baby to keep your energy levels up.
-A list of poses that you want to try. You don’t want to come back home and realize you forgot to try that pose you saw on Pinterest and was super cute.
-Diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes, in case of any accidents.
-A baby carrier or wrap to keep your hands free while you’re taking pictures.
Now that you have all of your gear, it’s time to get started!
Here are a Few Tips to Help You Get the Most Out of Your Photoshoot:
-If possible, try to shoot in the morning or evening when the light is softer.
-If you’re shooting in direct sunlight, try to position your baby in the shade to avoid harsh shadows on their face.
-Get down on your baby’s level to take pictures. This will help you capture their eye level and get some really cute shots.
-Try using a reflector to bounce light back onto your baby’s face. This will help to soften any shadows and create a more even light.
-Take your time and have fun! Don’t worry if things don’t go perfectly. Just relax and enjoy the process.
I hope these tips have inspired you to try an outdoor baby photoshoot! With a little planning and preparation, you can create some really beautiful and unique images of your little one. Just have fun and let your creativity flow!
Thank you for reading!
