Are you a newborn photographer looking to take your photos to the next level? Look no further! In this blog post, we will discuss the 12 best newborn photography props that will help you capture those perfect, adorable moments. From cozy blankets to themed costumes, these props will enhance your photos and make your newborn photography stand out. Let's dive in and discover the must-have newborn props!

But First, Safety

Not everything you see out there makes a good prop for newborn photography. Safety is the number one concern. No glass, nothing with sharp edges, nothing with old lead paint etc. Be sure you have about 5 lbs of counterweights that you place inside things like buckets, baskets. Cover any edge that the baby will touch with layers of blankets, foam etc. 

Cozy Blankets and Wraps

Cozy blankets and wraps are a newborn photographer's best friend! They make babies feel snug and secure, just like a warm hug. Imagine wrapping up a little one in a soft, colorful blanket. So cute! Swaddle them up and watch as they drift into dreamland. Then, click away to capture those serene, sleepy moments. Mix and match textures and hues for photos that pop. It's all about keeping the baby comfy while you snap those precious shots.

Not all wraps are created equal. You want to be sure you have some that you use as base wraps that will never show on camera. These would be super stretchy and hold the baby tight and provide most of the bulk for the shape you want. Outer wraps can be stretchy, cheesecloth, or tissue wrap.  Finally, you should have a set of 5 to 10 extra long wraps that are around 70 inches long. These are great for things like Pretzel Wraps, Potato Sack Poses and more.

Cute Hats and Headbands

Add a splash of cuteness to every click with adorable hats and headbands! Picture a tiny tot sporting a fuzzy bear hat or a dainty flower headband. It’s all about the little details that spark big smiles. Pose the baby nestled in blankets, and top off the look with a hat or headband. These tiny accessories can transform a simple photo into a heart-melting masterpiece. Imagine capturing a snoozing baby wearing a crochet crown, or a wide-eyed wonder with a sparkly bow. It’s these little touches that make your photos truly unforgettable. Mix and match, and let the cuteness overflow!

Baskets and Bowls

Baskets and bowls? Oh, they're like cozy nests for newborns! Imagine tucking a baby into a woven basket, snug as a bug. Or setting them gently into a bowl, looking all curled up and cute. These props are not just for holding fruit anymore! They're perfect for those adorable, curled-up poses we all love. Add a soft blanket inside for a touch of comfort and warmth. Each click captures a moment of pure joy, making those tiny tots look even more adorable. Play around with different sizes and textures to keep things fresh and exciting. Who knew baskets and bowls could be so much fun?

Flokati Rugs and Faux Fur

Get ready for a cuddle fest with flokati rugs and faux fur! These props scream softness and create a snug spot for little ones. Imagine a baby lying on a cloud of fluff, all cozy and cute. That's what you get with these amazing props. They're perfect for adding a touch of luxury and comfort to your photos. Lay a baby down, and watch the magic happen as they sink into softness. The textures are incredible, too. They catch the light just right, making your photos look even more stunning. Plus, playing with colors gives you endless possibilities to match any theme or mood. Who knew being this comfy could look so good in photos? Let's get the fluff party started!

Mini Beds and Cradles

Mini beds and cradles? Absolutely adorable! Picture this: a tiny baby, snoozing in a mini bed, snug as a bug. Or maybe resting in a cradle, gently rocked to dreamland. These props aren't just cute; they're scene-stealers. You can tuck a baby into these tiny beds with a little pillow and watch as they doze off, looking peaceful and oh-so-dreamy. It's like they're in their own little world, and we get to peek in. Try out different cozy setups or even a gentle rock. Each shot captures a story, a moment of pure, serene bliss. Who knew naptime could be this picture-perfect? Let's make sleep look stylish!

Themed Costumes

Dive into a world of make-believe with themed costumes! Transform tiny tots into anything from adorable animals to fairy-tale characters. Imagine a baby dressed as a little lion, roaring with cuteness, or a sweet princess with a tiny tiara. Themed costumes add a sprinkle of magic to your shots, making each photo a unique storybook page. Pose them sitting up like a little boss or dreaming away in a heroic snooze. It's all about playful creativity and capturing those once-in-a-lifetime shots that ooze personality. So, let's dress up those bundles of joy and create some whimsical memories! 

But be careful photographers…..themed images can be dangerous as characters are trademarked. Avoid using exact characters. Instead, go for similar ones. The last thing you want is a company like Disney coming after you.

Personalized Props

Dive into the world of personal touches with personalized props! Imagine the joy of adding a baby's name or special date with wooden letters and numbers right into your shot. It's like sprinkling a little bit of magic that says, "This moment is just for you." Whether it's spelling out a name or marking a birth date, these props create memories that shine brighter than a star. They're not just props; they're keepsakes, turning each photo into a treasure. Snap a pic with the baby's name cuddled next to them, or place those numbers around for a cute milestone photo. It's all about making those photos extra special. So, let's get personal and craft some unforgettable moments!

Soft Toys and Stuffed Animals

Bring on the snuggles with soft toys and stuffed animals! Imagine a little one cuddled up next to a fluffy teddy bear, or holding a squishy giraffe. So sweet! These furry friends add a dash of playfulness to any shot. Have a baby grasp a bunny's ear, or rest their head on a plush elephant. It's about creating those awww moments everyone adores. Soft toys aren't just props; they're baby's first buddies in the photo world. Watch as those tiny fingers explore textures and smiles spread wide. It's pure joy, captured forever. Let's make those photo sessions a playground of cuddles!

Wooden Letters and Numbers

Wooden letters and numbers are like the secret sauce to making your photos pop with personality! Think about it – spelling out a baby’s name or showcasing their age with these cute props adds a super special touch. It’s like saying, “Hey, look at me, I’m here and I’m unique!” Plus, they’re just fun to play around with. You can line them up next to a snoozing newborn for a shot that screams adorable or have them surround a playful tot for a picture full of life. These wooden wonders bring a bit of the outside in, giving your photos a natural, earthy vibe. And let’s not forget, they make for awesome keepsakes parents will treasure. So grab those letters and numbers, and let’s spell out some fun!

Rustic Buckets

Dive into the charm of yesteryear with rustic buckets! These aren't just any old buckets. They're your ticket to creating photos that ooze vintage vibes and wholesome cuteness. Picture a tiny baby, cozied up inside, surrounded by soft, plush blankets or a touch of faux fur for that extra snuggle factor. Now, that's a sight to melt hearts! Rustic buckets are all about adding a dash of old-school cool to your shots. Whether you're going for a peaceful, sleeping baby pose or a wide-eyed, curious look, these buckets set the stage for some truly memorable moments. And the best part? They're so versatile! Play around with different textures inside the bucket, add a pop of color with a small accessory, or keep it simple for that classic, timeless look. Let's get those babies bucket-ready for some adorable, rustic charm overload!

Soft Pillows and Cushions

Get ready to pile on the comfort with soft pillows and cushions! These squishy props are perfect for making those tiny babes look even cuter. Imagine tucking a sleepy newborn into a cloud of pillows, all snug and cozy. Or setting a little one atop a cushion like a tiny king or queen on a throne. You can stack them, scatter them, or use just one for that simple, sweet shot. It's all about creating a nest of coziness that makes everyone go "Awww!" Plus, playing with colors and patterns? So much fun! Pillows and cushions aren't just comfy; they're your secret weapon for adorable poses. Let's fluff things up and watch the cuteness unfold!

Fairy Lights and Backgrounds

Step into a world of wonder with fairy lights and dreamy backgrounds! These twinkling beauties add a sprinkle of magic to every shot. Imagine a baby, glowing softly in a fairy light wonderland. It's like capturing a little star! And don't forget about those backgrounds. They can be as simple or as fancy as you like. Go for soft, pastel shades to make your little one pop. Or choose a whimsical scene for a touch of fantasy. Mix and match lights and backgrounds to find the perfect dreamy setup. Play with light to get that soft, angelic glow. Every click can tell a fairy tale with these magical props. Let's light up those adorable moments and create some enchanting memories!

My Favorite Vendors:

Ana Brandt

Destash Facebook Group

Freebird Prop Shop

Katie is an experienced pregnancy and newborn photography in the Los Angeles area. Serving Glendale, Pasadena, San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley, East Los Angeles, Long Beach, Beach Cities, Santa Clarita, Arcadia, Monrovia. Book your  Los Angeles maternity and newborn photos today.