Even professional photographers have to take numerous photos just to get a few great ones, so don't be hesitant
to shoot a lot of pictures of your baby in many different settings using different perspectives. You can always
delete the ones you don't want. Shooting at eye level is a good rule of thumb — but also try lots of
different angles and make sure you use your zoom to get in close. Professional photographers take the camera
everywhere and you should to — the grocery store, the park, daycare — you never know when a great
opportunity will arise.
The best lighting for photography is just after sunrise and right before sunset. Harsh midday light can make
your baby squint or create shadows on your baby's face, so if you're taking pictures outside in the afternoon,
find a shady spot. Also, try
using flash outdoors
to even out shadows.
Whether playing peek-a-boo or making silly noises, do whatever it takes to make your little one smile. Having
a partner to work with may make things easier. Set up the shot while he or she generates the giggle.
Get in close to get rid of distracting objects in the background.
The simpler the background for your photos, the better. Try positioning your baby against a solid-colored
background. That way, nothing will detract from the focus of your photos: your child! If you have to contend
with objects in the natural environment, zoom in close to remove distracting elements from your photo.
Getting your baby to sit still for pictures can be challenging, but with the right techniques, you can capture
great photos—even on the move.
Depending on your camera, it can take an entire second from the moment you press the shutter to when your camera
actually takes the picture. This gap in time is called "shutter lag," and it can be the difference between getting
action shots and missing them. Here's how to prevent shutter lag:
Press the shutter down lightly, about halfway. This will lock the focus on your subject.
Continue to hold the button partially down until you're ready to shoot. This lets you take the
picture much faster because you're already in focus.
Many cameras also have an Action mode. Use this shooting mode to speed up your shutter speed when you child
is moving around — this will help avoid blur.
The black and white combined with the unique angle makes for a beautiful shot.
Don't limit yourself to color photos.
Black-and-white photography
has a timeless, romantic quality perfectly suited to baby photos.
The bracketing feature on select digital cameras may let you record three versions of each photo (color, black and white, and sepia, for example). You can choose your
favorite later. Free HP Photosmart Essential
software also allows you to change the color of your photos once they are downloaded to your computer.
Include friends and family to create memorable baby photos.
When you spend time with friends and family, everyone wants to hold the baby. Take those opportunities to
capture your child being held lovingly by Aunt Janie or sitting on his sister's lap. Set up shots with your
child being held lovingly by friends and family. You will capture great moments, and you can print extra copies
to give as gifts.
For when you're on the go, check out HP's selection of
compact photo printers.
They're even small enough to take to baby showers and other events-an easy way to create instant party favors. Or, get more
ideas on getting your
kids involved into digital photography.
Take a free online class
in digital photography! Explore the many features of your digital camera, find tips for cropping and editing your
images, and discover new ideas for sharing your photos in creative ways.
Printable version
Get in close to get rid of distracting objects in the background.
