The Beauty of a Newborn Photo Without Props

updated september 2023

Family sitting in nursery holding their newborn baby with their dog nearby

Hey there, lovely folks of Dallas Fort Worth Texas!

If you've been scrolling through endless Pinterest boards or diving deep into the Insta-abyss of newborn photography, you might have come across a gazillion adorable babies nestled in baskets, swaddled in glitzy fabrics, or sometimes even adorned with those too-cute-to-handle bunny ears. Props can be super fun, no doubt! But today, let's chat about a style that's been capturing my heart (and lens) lately: newborn photo without props.

Yep, you read that right. No props, no frills, just pure, unadulterated baby magic.

WHY GO PROP FREE?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's chat a bit about the why. Why would someone choose to go the prop-free route for their newborn’s photos?

Authenticity: In the whirlwind of diapers, midnight feeds, and that inexplicable baby scent, every moment is real, raw, and oh-so-fleeting. A newborn photo without props encapsulates this genuine essence. No distractions, just your baby as they are, capturing those tiny details you'll want to remember forever.
Safety First: While many professional photographers are trained to handle props safely, there's an extra layer of peace when you know there's nothing around your baby that could pose even the slightest risk.
Timeless Beauty: Let's face it. Trends come and go. But a simple, prop-free shot? That’s timeless. It won't age or feel dated. It’s a classic that'll adorn your walls, photo books, or digital albums for generations to come.

Tips for Nailing the Newborn Photo Without Props

Now, if you're nodding along, thinking, "Alright, I'm sold on the idea. But how do I make sure my baby’s prop-free photos still look fabulous?" Don’t you worry. I’ve got your back.

Natural Light is Your BFF: There's a soft, dreamy quality to natural light that's just perfect for newborn shoots. If you can, schedule the session during the day when there's plenty of ambient light. Position your baby near a window (but not directly under harsh sunlight) for that gentle, ethereal glow.
Neutral Backdrops: Whether it's your bed with white or light-colored linens or a plush rug, neutral backgrounds let your baby be the star of the show. They complement without overshadowing, creating a serene environment.
Comfy Baby = Happy Photos: Make sure the room's warm enough (babies can't regulate their body temperature like us grown-ups). A comfortable baby is more likely to be calm, making it easier to capture those serene, sleepy poses.
Close-Ups Matter: When you're going prop-free, it’s the details that shine. Those tiny toes, the peach fuzz on their little head, the curve of a miniature ear—get close and capture it all.
Include Family: Prop-free doesn't mean solo! Get in there, parents, siblings, and even pets. The tender moments shared, be it a gentle touch or a soft kiss, add warmth and depth to the shoot.
Go Black & White: There's a certain elegance to black and white photos. Without the color, the focus shifts entirely to the subject, making every emotion, every little detail pop.
Let Them Lead: Remember, babies have their own little personalities, even at just a few days old. Instead of forcing a pose, let them lie or curl up naturally. Those candid moments? Gold.

In Conclusion

I’m all for personal choices. If props speak to your soul, by all means, embrace them! But there's an undeniable charm to a newborn photo without props. It’s pure, it’s genuine, and it's oh-so-beautiful.

So next time you're gearing up for a newborn shoot, maybe consider going prop-free. And if you're in the Dallas Fort Worth area, you know who to call! 😉 Let's create memories together that are simple, timeless, and all about celebrating the newest addition to your family.

Happy snapping, and here's to cherishing every blink, wiggle, and gummy smile of your little one! 🍼📸❤️