6 baby photography tips from Boston-area experts

Do you have a new baby? Congratulations! Like many new parents, you are probably snapping photo after photo of your new bundle of joy. But do you wish your photos looked more polished? Boston.com Moms reached out to six Boston-area professional photographers for baby photography tips. They were kind enough to email us their top tips (One hint: turn off the flash!) and share their beautiful work as well. So get your camera ready and don’t forget to share your results with us.

Timing

“The best time for newborn photography is in the baby’s first two weeks of life,’’ writes Diana Sechrist of Diana Sechrist Photography in Boston. “During this time, it is slightly easier to position the baby because he/she sleeps more soundly and can curl up into those adorable poses more easily. Also, baby acne starts to pop up around week 3 and 4!’’

Use your hands

“Include a prop or even your hands when taking images of your newborn baby so you can visualize how tiny they really are,’’ writes Taslim Sidi of Bring to Light Photography in Boston.

Safety first

“Photographing a newborn on a prop can be challenging,’’ writes Susan Bartolini of Susan Bartolini Photography in Arlington. “Baby safety is first and foremost the priority. Before attempting a prop shot, it is imperative that the baby is sound asleep and you have another person supporting the baby as you are taking the photograph. My assistant was just outside of the frame on this image and had her hand on the baby until we were ready to take the shot.’’

No flash

“Lose the flash!’’ writes Beth Miga of Beth Miga Photography in East Bridgewater. “Modern digital cameras and even modern camera phones are capable of taking pictures in low light so don’t be afraid to turn off your camera’s flash and find more flattering natural light. Look around your home and move baby to a bright area (but not in direct sunlight) facing towards a window. You will see the light from the window reflected in the baby’s eyes, which creates a flattering, bright eyed portrait. Also, in this picture, laying the baby on a solid color throw blanket creates a simple, uncluttered background.’’

Treats for keeping still

“It’s tough to keep them still,’’ writes Christina McPherson of Christina McPherson Photography in Lincoln. “A small pile of easily dissolved treats, like puffs or yogurt chips, won’t show up and keeps them in place. Then, exclaim something they are just learning to say, like “Ma-ma-ma’’ or ’’Da-da-da.’’ As soon as they look up, capture the image!’’

Include mom

“Ensure that mom herself gets in shots with her newborn, or growing baby often,’’ writes Kate McKenna from Crabapple Photography in Medford. “I have so many new moms who tell me they don’t like the way they look after delivery and would rather not get their photo taken. I usually manage to convince them to take a few shots anyway. Even if it’s not the shot that ends up as a 16×20 canvas in their living room, their baby will cherish that photo for a lifetime.’’