Mastering 85mm Newborn Photography: Tips for Stunning Portraits and Techniques

Capturing those precious early moments of your newborn’s life is a task filled with joy and wonder. If you’re a parent or a photographer, using an 85mm lens can elevate your newborn photography to a whole new level. This lens offers a perfect blend of sharpness and beautiful bokeh, allowing you to focus on your little one while softly blurring the background.

In this article, you’ll explore the benefits of using an 85mm lens for newborn photography, tips for achieving stunning shots, and creative ideas to make the most of your sessions. Whether you’re aiming for intimate close-ups or dreamy portraits, mastering the 85mm can help you capture memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s dive into the world of 85mm newborn photography and unlock the secrets to those breathtaking images you’ve always wanted.

Understanding 85mm Newborn Photography

85mm lenses serve as a fantastic tool for capturing the delicate essence of newborns. This focal length strikes a balance between proximity and comfort, enabling photographers to get close without invading the baby’s personal space. More than just a lens, it can transform seemingly simple moments into timeless keepsakes.

Benefits of Using 85mm Lens

Excellent Subject Isolation: The 85mm lens excels in blurring backgrounds, thanks to its wide aperture. This sharp focus on the baby draws attention to their features, creating a dreamy, ethereal effect in each photo.
Ideal Framing: You get the perfect framing, whether photographing a tiny hand or a full-body shot. The focal length enables a tighter crop without distortion, capturing the subject with impeccable detail.
Versatility: An 85mm lens accommodates various styles, from intimate close-ups to posed portraits. This versatility makes it a go-to choice for newborn photographers keen on experimenting with different compositions.
Natural Perspective: The lens maintains a natural perspective, resembling how the human eye perceives the scene. This quality produces images that feel authentic and heartwarming, ideal for portraying the beauty of newborns.
Low Light Performance: The aperture capabilities allow for exceptional shooting in low light, perfect for indoor sessions. Whether capturing soft morning light or creating a warm, cozy atmosphere, this lens proves invaluable.

For more detailed insights on photography benefits, check out this resource on photographic perspective.

Aperture Settings: Shoot at a wide aperture, typically f/1.8 to f/2.8, to achieve shallow depth of field, enhancing that beautiful bokeh effect essential for newborn portraits.
ISO Settings: Keep your ISO as low as possible, ideally between 100 and 400. This setting ensures crisp images while reducing noise, which is particularly important when photographing newborns.
Shutter Speed: Maintain an appropriate shutter speed, generally 1/125s or faster. This speed captures movements without motion blur, especially useful with wiggly little ones.
Lighting Techniques: Use natural light whenever possible. Position yourself near a window for soft, diffused light, which perfectly enhances the newborn’s features. When in low light, consider adding a softbox or reflector to frame the baby gently.
White Balance: Adjust your white balance according to the lighting conditions. A setting of ‘daylight’ works well with natural light, while ‘shade’ can warm indoor settings significantly.

By paying attention to these essential settings, you create an environment where every shot becomes a treasure.

Techniques for Capturing Newborns

Capturing the delicate beauty of newborns requires a thoughtful approach. Employing techniques that highlight their vulnerability and charm enhances your photography. Focus on composition and lighting to elevate your newborn portraits.

Composition Tips

Use the Rule of Thirds: Divide the frame into thirds, positioning the newborn in one of the intersections. This technique adds visual interest and balance to the image.
Emphasise Simplicity: Keep backgrounds plain to allow the baby’s features to stand out. A simple backdrop creates a serene environment, drawing attention to the newborn.
Incorporate Textures: Use soft fabrics, blankets, or wooden props to add warmth. Textures enhance the image and create a comforting atmosphere.
Capture Different Angles: Vary the perspectives by shooting from above or at the eye level of the baby. This diversity results in a striking series of photographs.
Include Parents’ Hands: Frame the baby within parents’ hands for a sense of intimacy and connection. This not only captures the newborn’s fragility but also tells a touching story.

Natural Light Is Best: Use soft, diffused sunlight for a gentle glow. Ideal times for shooting include early morning or late afternoon when light is golden and warm.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Harsh light can create unflattering shadows. Position the baby near a window with sheer curtains for evenly diffused illumination.
Use Reflectors: Employ reflectors to bounce light back onto the baby’s face. This technique reduces harsh shadows while enhancing facial features and expressions.
Experiment with Low Light: Don’t shy away from low-light settings. Using a wide aperture allows for stunningly intimate shots, perfect for capturing the serene moments when the baby sleeps.
Consider Artificial Lighting: If necessary, use softbox lights to create a pleasant setup. Ensure the light mimics natural softness to maintain the tender feel of the portraits.

By implementing these techniques, your 85mm newborn photography can flourish, capturing not just images but emotions that resonate with families for a lifetime. For more insights on newborn photography techniques, visit Photography Life.

Gear Recommendations

Choosing the right gear significantly impacts your ability to capture stunning newborn photographs. The combination of a high-quality lens and essential accessories ensures that you achieve the results you desire.

Best 85mm Lenses for Newborn Photography

When selecting an 85mm lens for newborn photography, consider these top options known for their sharpness and beautiful bokeh:

Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM: Famed for its exceptional low-light performance and creamy background blur, this lens excels at creating intimate portraits.
Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.4G: This lens offers outstanding sharpness and vibrant colours, making it ideal for capturing the delicate features of newborns.
Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM: Known for its incredible detail and contrast, this lens delivers professional-quality images suitable for any newborn session.
Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art: Praised for its sharpness and beautiful rendering, this lens adds a unique touch to newborn photography with a very pleasing bokeh.

Selecting any of these lenses will help you produce portraits that truly capture the essence of your subjects.

Essential Accessories

Alongside your lens, several accessories enhance your newborn photography experience:

Tripod: A stable tripod allows you to minimise camera shake, especially in low-light settings.
Reflector: Using a reflector helps bounce soft light onto your subjects, reducing harsh shadows and enhancing skin tones.
Softbox or Diffuser: These accessories soften the light emitted from your flash or artificial lights, creating a warm atmosphere perfect for capturing newborns.
Backdrop: Neutral or textured backdrops provide a timeless feel in your portraits, ensuring the focus remains on the newborn.
Props: Soft blankets, hats, and baskets create unique setups that capture your creative vision and add personality to each shot.

Using quality gear and accessories makes a substantial difference in achieving captivating newborn photographs. For further insights on the best lenses, check out detailed reviews at DPReview.

Common Challenges in Newborn Photography

Newborn photography presents unique challenges, often requiring quick thinking and adaptability. Understanding these challenges enhances your ability to capture stunning portraits.

Handling Squirmy Newborns

Handling squirmy newborns requires patience and finesse. Babies often move unexpectedly, making it difficult to frame the perfect shot. To manage this, try using a soft, comfortable blanket to create a secure space that helps the baby feel at ease. Wrapping the newborn snugly in a swaddle can also reduce movement, allowing you to capture those precious expressions.

Conversing softly with parents or playing calming music contributes to a serene atmosphere that keeps the baby relaxed. When you notice signs of fussiness, don’t panic. Often, a gentle rocking or a soothing motion can settle them back into peaceful slumber, creating an ideal opportunity for capturing exquisite images.

Managing Lighting Variations

Managing lighting variations plays a crucial role in achieving high-quality images. Natural light proves beneficial but can change with the time of day or weather conditions. Positioning near a large window often provides ideal soft light. However, keep curtains or blinds accessible to diffuse harsh sunlight when necessary.

Using reflectors can further enhance natural light, bouncing it back onto the subject while softening shadows. Consider investing in a continuous lighting system, particularly for indoor sessions where lighting might fluctuate. Learning how to balance lighting will ensure skin tones appear natural and create a dreamy, ethereal look.

For further tips on newborn photography techniques and lighting, explore resources like Expert Photography.

Conclusion

Embracing the 85mm lens for newborn photography can transform your portraits into cherished memories. By mastering the right settings and techniques you can capture the delicate beauty of newborns with stunning clarity.

Remember to create a calming environment that keeps babies comfortable while you work. With patience and practice you’ll find that overcoming challenges becomes easier.

Utilising the tips and resources available will not only enhance your skills but also help you produce images that families will treasure for years to come. Your journey in newborn photography is just beginning and the possibilities are endless.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using an 85mm lens for newborn photography?

Using an 85mm lens allows for beautiful background blur, which helps highlight the baby. This lens is ideal for capturing close-up details and is effective for portrait shots without getting too close, ensuring the baby’s comfort and safety.

What camera settings should I use for newborn photography?

For newborn photography, a wide aperture (f/1.8 to f/2.8) is recommended for soft backgrounds. Use a lower ISO (100-400) to reduce graininess and set your shutter speed at 1/125s or faster to avoid motion blur.

How can I handle a squirmy newborn during photoshoots?

To manage a squirmy newborn, gently swaddle them in soft blankets to create a sense of security. Take breaks and use soothing techniques like soft music or gentle rocking to keep them calm during the session.

What lighting techniques work best for newborn photography?

Natural light is ideal for newborn photography; position the baby near a window for soft, flattering light. If using artificial light, continuous lighting systems and reflectors can help balance shadows and create a warm atmosphere.

Where can I find more resources on newborn photography techniques?

For deeper insights into newborn photography, websites like Expert Photography offer extensive guides on techniques, lighting, and tips. These resources can enhance your skills and help you capture stunning images of newborns.

Author Profile

George MargasGeorge Margas

George Margas is the founder and lead content creator at 335mm.com. With over a decade of experience in photography and a keen interest in optical technology, George combines technical expertise with practical insights to help photographers make informed decisions about their gear. As the owner of gemweb media agency, he brings a unique perspective on digital content creation and the evolving landscape of visual media. When not writing about lenses or testing the latest camera equipment, George can be found exploring new photography techniques and sharing his knowledge through workshops and online tutorials.