Natural Newborn Baby Photography: A Guide to Posing, Shooting, and Business Paperback – June 22, 2013

I wasn’t expecting the smaller size soft cover after trying the larger version from the Library but it serves its purpose. A few page corners are turned down but it’s in great shape and the price was good.

I bought this book because I wanted to get more insight from someone with experience in natural light for newborn photography. I'm a semi-professional photographer and I frequently get asked if I would take pictures of friends' babies and other important events in their lives. I do not like using strobes or any studio lights when it comes to children in general. Unfortunately, I didn't know anybody with experience using only natural light and that's how I came across Robin Long's book.Her writing is very clear and she shares a lot of her personal experience as a natural light newborn and maternity photographer. The covers from a basic studio setting to the main four basic poses for newborn babies, as well as newborn babies with parents and siblings. It doesn't go as much into maternity or young children at all. But that's not the main subject of the book anyway.She also covers business practices, strategies, and editing workflows. I do happen to differ a little when it comes to business practices and I consider the Photoshop workflow to be more of a personal choice based on style. But that's perfectly fine. As an artist, Robin Long found her niche and she's more than happy to share it with her audience. Ultimately, every photographer should strive to find their own style and Robin Long makes that clear, as well.Overall, this is an excellent resource for anybody who would like to get started in this niche market and I highly recommend it.

I have no idea who this book is written for:Is it for the Pro photographer thinking about getting into newborn photography?Is it for the Amateur photographer thinking about getting into newborn photography?Is it for a parent wanting to take awesome pics of their kid?I'll argue that this book tries to be good for all of those people and in turn becomes bad for all of those people.For the pro it's too basic in regards to photography and the only value add is in the section I describe as "How to hold a baby without squishing it".For the amateur it's too fluffy without any details or lighting diagrams - instead the author relies on vague setting prompts like "Put the light at a 30-45 degree angle to the subject." ... But doesn't say IN WHICH DIRECTION or what kind of light or what distance is commonly used or what kind of film they may have placed on the light.For the parent it gives a 100 example photos that they wish they'll get and probably wont. It tells them how to hold their baby and run a business but that is irrelevant for them.I an experienced amateur, I know how to take photos and how to handle a baby, I wanted to get examples of photos with different lighting configurations and get an idea for what kind of picture I could expect with a specific configuration/orientation of baby & lighting. I want to go rent a lighting solution and still have no idea what I should go get!!Oh yeah, I forgot to mention - This review was sponsored by SHOOT BABY! brand of baby photography products! For when it counts, use SHOOT BABY!Disclaimer: SHOOT BABY! did not actually sponsor this review. I was making reference to the fact that it appears that SHOOT BABY! sponsored the book since the author constantly promotes their products throughout the book. Drink more Ovaltine!

One aspect of my photography is newborn. Robin's book covers just about every detail of her process from beginning through editing. Her style of photography is clean and natural and her writing is the same. I refer back to this book often. Additionally she was quick to respond to a Facebook message I sent her regarding her choices for photo labs that make albums. If you are a baby photographer or you want to be, you can't go wrong by purchasing this book.

Let me start off by saying that I've had a DSLR that I've been playing with/learning for the past few years, but I'd still consider myself a beginner, maybe an 'advanced beginner ;)'I am interested in going into newborn photography once I have some practice subjects...not many newborns around me right now.Robin's book is excellent! She touches upon everything! I already have a good understanding of aperture, ISO, etc., but she goes into such depth on every possible subject (lists all her equipment, tells which camera settings she uses, things you need to set up your studio, baby safety, working with clients...the list goes on and on). There is always more to learn, but this book is so comprehensive I cannot imagine needing another newborn photography book after this. Highly recommend!

I had this book in my Amazon cart for months. It's a bit more expensive than I am used to paying for books, so I wanted to make sure I wanted it before spending the $. Wow, it's amazing and worth EVERY PENNY! I am sad I didn't buy this book sooner. It is SO useful for a brand new newborn photographer. It's invaluable. I'll have it in my rolling cart with me during every shoot until I feel like I don't need it anymore. :)

This is by far the most helpful photography book I've read. And I have read many! Robin presents a clear and realistic view of what it takes to be the newborn baby photographer you want to be. She stresses the importance of knowing newborns. There is a lot to know.She also goes a step further and discusses business planning and marketing yourself.I felt like she was talking directly to me.Just loved it. So helpful!

I have found this book to be exceptionally useful, lots of tips on photographing new born babies. Maybe some of the poses are a bit tricky but you do not have to mimic each pose, but the way to wrap and the fabrics to use and the tips on camera settings, etc are invaluable. A great purchase and a very good book to dip into. Robin uses only natural light, I use studio lights, but this does not matter the way she achieves the very natural and pure look is worth reading about.

I personally found this a great guide. I think a good all rounder, I'm a hobby photographer and wanted to get some hints for taking images of my new baby. However I think this book would be great for people who are starting a business too. It gives all the information including the manual settings for different picture styles, as well as information for starting up a business, if you are that way inclined.I found this to be nicely written and an easy read unlike some photography guides, where you need a degree in rocket science to get past the introduction.

I have a degree in photography and am doing an apprenticeship in newborn photography in advance of setting up my own newborn photography business. This book is OK but a lot of it is about just learning to use your camera which I assume most people buying this book will already know. I would have liked more about the business side and how to manage that. There are some helpful aspects but overall I was a bit disappointed.

A very informative book for anyone starting out in newborn photography. It addressed all the relevant starting points including positioning, lighting and camera settings. The lovely images show what can be done with a newborn. I'm really looking forward to trying it all out.

Arrived fast and very easy to read. I love the fact all the camera settings are under the photo's. Planning on starting my own business next year and this book has some great advice in it.