I've appreciated browsing for ideas and C&C of other photos. I'm really trying to improve. Here are two shots I took of my newborn a few months ago. I used one large soft box and a gold reflector to her left. I used the black fur to soak up the light and make it black.
#1
Looking at what is popular in newborn photography, I realize that sleeping infants really are in, as well as photogenic. I didn't get any sleeping, but I will try to capture that next time I have the opportunity to shoot a newborn. I notice the orange too. She did have a touch of newborn jaundice and you might notice there is less of the color on her legs. Not sure if this is really the problem or not. Maybe the gold reflector wasn't a good choice?
The baby was born on valentines day, and I was trying to capture her with a rose from the bouquet received when she was born. I also was trying to capture her size compared to the flower. I think it might have been better, though, as you suggested to wait till she was sleeping and capture her in more of a cuddled up position.
This is personal preference, but I like babies on white, not black. Either way, I'd lose the diaper and diaper pants.
Your black background has no detail which gives the image a "cutout" look. Yes, the gold reflector wasn't the best choice. I'd also like to see a "kicker" on the back to add some depth and definition.
I think you can only see the reflector on the top of the head. The orange tone seems to be in the torso. And I agree about the "cutout" look with the black.
It looks orange to me too. I would also echo the comment about the black background. I think white is better with babies. You may want to consider a B & W version too.
Emily,
You are on the right track by posting and seeking comments. Lots of good help on this forum.
I agree with others on drawing down the orange/gold hue a bit. Easy if you're using Lightroom. I also would clone out the white dots from the cloth she's on.
Great idea to use the rose as a prop -- part of what we're doing is making memories.
BTW, she's beautiful, so you have a good model to continue working with.
John
On #3, you almost got what you wanted. Move to the right, making the rose in the right front foreground, and you would have gotten more of her face and eyes... especially the eyes. And you would have been able to crop down so the diaper didn't show. She is really into that flower. At this point in time, she can't "see" yet but she can tell differences in light and dark. And to her, that light colored rose stands out on the black cloth. If you change background to lighter or white, then try to have something dark for her to look at. When she's a couple months, she will begin to be able to distingish objects. But for now, just contrast.
Thank you for the help. My daughter is now 4 1/2 months old. But time flies with three kids. It seems I rarely have a chance to experiment. But will keep at it! I need to try the no diaper - makes me nervous, but shouldn't be too hard. Yes, I'm using Lightroom, so can work the orange tone down.
Or rotate to portrait and come in for a close headshot.