Baby portraits by window light

USE NATURAL LIGHT FOR FLATTERING BABY PHOTOS AND GET TO GRIPS WITH KEY CAMERA SETTINGS FOR INDOOR PORTRAITS

1 Window light

Whether shooting for a composite or more traditional portrait, window light is ideal for baby photography. The window acts like a giant softbox for flattering, even light. A skylight is great when the baby is lying down as it lights them from the top. If the baby is sitting up, use a large window or bay door to illuminate them.

Mood swings

Whenever photographing babies you need to work around their schedules and moods. They’re often most happy around midmorning, although this of course depends on their sleep and feeding patterns. Ask the parents when they’re usually at their happiest, and be ready to shoot.

2 Camera settings

When photographing babies – or any kind of portrait – it’s usually best to have a setand-forget exposure so you can concentrate on the subject without fiddling with the camera. A good place to start with window-lit portraits is Manual mode, a wide f/2.8 aperture (or similar) 1/200 sec shutter speed, and Auto ISO.

Lens choice

A prime lens like a 50mm or 100mm is very useful for portraits, especially when shooting with window light. Prime lenses usually have wide apertures like f/2.8 or f/1.8, which not only gives you lovely shallow focus, but also allows you to shoot with lower ISOS in interiors.

3 Baby spotter

At six months old, our tiny subject here can just about sit up, but he is rather wobbly. If there’s a danger that the baby might topple over, it’s essential to have a helper on hand to watch them while you take photos. Place pillows around them to ensure a soft landing if they do tumble.

Backdrops

Frame to include a plain backdrop, like a wall or door, and if necessary hang a blanket or roll of paper behind the subject. This will give you an uncluttered backdrop and allows the subject to stand out. It’s also very helpful if you intend to cut out the subject later on to make a composite.