Choosing the Perfect Props for Your Newborn Session

When people think of newborn photography they usually think of a baby beautifully placed in a basket or bucket. The correct use of props can make or break a newborn image, and make for some really cute portraits, but it’s REAL easy to go overboard. So I wanted to take a moment and talk about props, why we use them, and how to use them correctly.

The Art of Prop Selection in Newborn Photography

Props often play a pivotal role in newborn photography. They add texture, color, and a sense of scale, and a lot of the time they are just plain cute. So how do we choose what's best for your little one's session? It's not just about what looks nice; it's about what resonates with your family's style and the story you want to tell.

Less is More

I’m a big believer in the idea of portrait photography being about connection and emotion. I’ve never been a fan of newborn images with elaborate backdrops and props, because the more intricate and elaborate the setup is, the more the setup becomes the main focus of the image. Props should be used to enhance your image, to showcase how small your baby is, or to help evoke emotion, or add a small addition of color or texture. We don’t want props to steal the spotlight, I want the focus to be on the baby, their tiny toes, and stray curls. This helps create timeless photographs that enable you to remember all those beautiful details as your little one grows up.

Props Should Match Your Personal Style

Photographs are meant to be displayed and looked at. There is so little sense in spending time and energy for beautiful portraits only for them to forgotten in some folder collecting digital dust. So when we are selecting the props to use, one thing I always talk about is making sure that the props are in line with the clients personal style. I find most people don’t want the overly cutesy images for their walls, they want classic and timeless images, so we need props to match. The baby in the sailboat is cute, but if you are not decorating your home in a nautical theme, maybe go with something else.

Personal Touches

Don’t be afraid to add a personal touch. The photo above was from a mama who loved horseback riding, and riding was a huge part of the families everyday activities. So she brought in her saddle and so that they could include their little one in their family’s traditions from the very beginning. It’s a beautiful image that means so much to them. Using a family heirloom, a gift from a loved one, or even a book you've been reading to your bump can create a connection in the image that's uniquely yours. These personal props tell a story, your story, and are a key part of creating an images that make us smile when we see them.

Safety First

While I’m all for creativity, safety is paramount in newborn photography. Props should be chosen with care, ensuring they're safe for your baby. For me this means absolutely no props from places like Ali Express. Cheap props from overseas mean no oversight in chemicals and harmful substances that can be on fabrics, paint, and on wood surfaces and plastics. My general rule of thumb is that if I wouldn’t want my own child to put it in their mouth, it does not belong in my studio.

Collaborating with Your Photographer

Choosing props isn't something you need to do alone. As your photographer, I'm here to guide you, suggest ideas, and help you select props that will work best with the lighting, backdrops, and the overall vision of the session. It's a collaborative effort, one that's aimed at creating the most beautiful and meaningful images of your newborn.

Selecting props for your newborn's photo session is an exciting part of the photography experience. Whether it's a minimalistic approach or incorporating personal items for that special touch, the right props can transform your baby's photos into a beautiful story.

Ready to plan your perfect newborn session? Reach out, and let's discuss how to make your baby's first photoshoot uniquely yours.