Say hello to the Canon EOS 60D, one of the favourite cameras among photographers thanks to its flagship features. As a mid-range DSLR camera, it's equipped with much needed essentials for photographers. This camera meets users’ expectations, and comes with the advantages of an entry-level device, without the cost, weight and complexity of a semi-pro camera. If you’re into video making, this camera also offers clear screen and manual control in all audio levels.
This time, I use EOS 60D to snap pictures of newborn babies. Taking the photos is not as easy as it seems because it requires skills, patience and time. The first couple of weeks of a child’s life is precious as we can capture magical details of their tiny hands and feet as well as their thin hair and delicate skin. It takes a keen eye to recognise the special moments and communicate them in photos.
EOS 60D; EF50mm f/1.4 USM; f/2.8; 50mm; 1/50 sec; ISO-200
The first thing to do before taking this photo shoot is making sure that the newborns feel comfortable. The photo shoot can take place at the baby’s home or at a photo studio. Make sure there’s a special room for the mother to nurse the baby when needed.
Timing is everything
The best time to capture their photos is during the first 5 to 14 days of their lives, as they present many photo-worthy moments. They fall deep into sleep with hints of smiley expressions, in a beautiful curl of a tiny fetal position. After those first two weeks, babies tend to be more aware when they sleep.
EOS 60D; EF50mm f/1.4 USM; f/2.8; 50mm; 1/125 sec; ISO-100
Duration of the Photo Shoot
Newborn photography takes time, so it helps to have a relaxing atmosphere and a proper environment to nurse them when needed. You can adjust their position or pose, and wait for those unpredictable photo moments.
Here are some tips and tricks to capture newborn babies in photos:
Prepare Ideas and Concept
You must have a rough idea or concept of the photo shoot. Bear in mind that you’re dealing with newborn babies, who are very susceptible to the elements.
EOS 60D; EF50mm f/1.4 USM; f/3.2; 50mm; 1/80 sec; ISO-160
Use Fixed Lenses
Use fixed lenses for a baby’s portrait. For this, I use EF50mm f/1.4 USM lens embedded in my EOS 60D that I’ve been using for the past five years.
EOS 60D; EF50mm f/1.4 USM; f/2.8; 50mm; 1/160 sec; ISO-400
This guide will be useful in choosing the right camera to capture cute photos of babies: what cameras are good for capturing adorable babies?
Use Sunlight
Use natural light such as sunshine that penetrates through windows or doors.
Be Patient
To capture unique, unpredictable moments of a baby, patience is a must.
EOS 60D; EF50mm f/1.4 USM; f/2.8; 50mm; 1/160 sec; ISO-400
Nurse Them
Nurse the baby before a photo shoot to avoid mood swings. This will make it easier for you to arrange their poses during the shoot.
EOS 60D; EF50mm f/1.4 USM; f/2.8; 50mm; 1/50 sec; ISO-160
Learn more about how to capture beautiful and cute photos of babies:
How to take photos of Cute Baby
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I took up photography in 2010, when I was a video editor at TVRI Bali, a local TV network in Indonesia. I learned the ropes through self-learning and guidance from my friends, who are professional photographers. Photography is important for me because it allows me to capture moments that only happen once.
www.nasbali.com or Instagram: @nyoman_arya_suartawan
