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Newborn Safety with Posing

3/25/2014

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With the popularity of Pinterest and the ease of acquiring DSLR cameras, there is a big trend of "let's take them ourselves" for newborn photography. What people may not know from looking at an image like the one to the left, is that this image is a composite. 

A photo composite is created in photoshop from two or more images to create one complete image. The trick to achieving a good composite image is to stay in the same place relative to the subject. A camera on tripod is ideal, but a steady hand works too. A newborn assistant is a MUST. Ideally, this person works with you for every newborn session. In a pinch, a parent can be used, but remember that they are not trained to do this, and it is really hard to get the hang of. Lastly, you need a VERY sleepy and snuggly baby. The trick to getting these poses is to have a baby that is swaddled tightly, so the limbs can't move, and asleep so he/she will not be fussy or wiggle. 

While continuing reading this post please remember: 

This is not a tutorial on how to create composite images for other photographers, but rather a PSA for newborn safety. 

This was actually the first time I tried this particular pose. I had the world's most cooperative newborn and a seasoned assistant. The wrap was a jersey knit and swaddled Olive nice and tight. Kelly was able to support Olive from the right side the whole time. Now that I said that, I am sure all of your eyes darted up to the picture to see where I cloned her out. I'm not going to sit here and say that image is flawless, but I can tell you it was done SAFELY. 

The trick to getting a good set of images eligible for composite is to get one with the top of the head/face by supporting the lower half and chin. Then to get another that is supporting the head, showing the body in full. Ideally, I would've shot a third of just the background in case I needed to touch that up. It would've been the difference between an "ok" composite and a great one, but I forgot. It happens. Still confused? Let's see it in action. 
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I used the chin and up on this image since Olive's face was nice and relaxed, and Kelly's hand was supporting under the chin. I knew I could clone in the swaddle material for a seamless image.
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Did you notice I didn't follow one of my rules? I must have scooted closer to the Olive and Kelly. The body is slightly bigger in this shot. When I took it into PS I had to adjust the size to keep it relative to the first image. 
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This is to show you how I determined where to use the eraser and where to clone. If you are a seasoned photoshop-er you may notice I don't really use layers. Not exactly the "right" way to do things, but it works for me. 

Below is another example from Olive's session where she is supported at all times. This is a very stable pose for newborns. If they are very sleepy, and the room is warm, they usually don't wiggle out of this one. Sometimes they will startle awake and really jolt their bodies. That is why Kelly is supporting the head and neck. Even though Olive is on the ground and doesn't have anywhere to fall, that motion and movement can still do serious damage. Safety first my friends! 
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My final tip for this post…. do not pressure your photographer to do anything he/she is not comfortable doing. I didn't start newborn photography with these tricks in my bag. I do not always get the chance to have an assistant available, and I won't usually attempt them without one because I don't like putting the parents in that position. If you are interested in poses like these, hire a photographer who can do them and do them safely. 

If you are unsure of whether they can or will do them for you, just ask ahead of time. Newborns don't just "pop up". You have several months to let your tog know what you want and to decide if they are the right fit for your session. Timing is key too. For sessions like these, and poses like these, I prefer to shoot within 10 days of birth. Anything over that I consider the baby sort of "unpredictable". They move more and become a liability for their own safety. 

Thank you for reading and comment with any questions! 
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Why you absolutely MUST do an engagement session!

3/13/2014

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1. I finally get to put a face to the name of the clients I haven't met yet!
2. We get the chance to know each other in a relaxed, slower pace.
3. I figure out your "quirks and preferences".
4. I get the chance to gauge if you come with ideas or let me pose you.
5. I am with you on your wedding day, please make sure I'm not a psycho! :) 
6. You aren't in wedding garb. It's refreshing to have a casual set too.
7. I not only shoot you before your wedding, but I have processed them too. I know how to work with your bodies. What worked, what didn't. 
8. You can give me feedback. 
9. We can add more of your personality into this session.
10. You can use the images for wedding stuff, like a sign in book!


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The thing that I absolutely love about engagement sessions is the chance to get to work with the bride and groom BEFORE their big day. 

I get to see how you react together, how you touch, and how you play. All of these things help me make better wedding images for you! 

There is an opportunity to shoot in a location that means a lot to both of you, but is maybe out of the way on your wedding day. My husband and I had our first real date playing putt-putt… something like that. You both love to read, let's head to the library or bookstore and grab a coffee. 

Engagement sessions are also a great way to try out a potential wedding photographer. If you haven't booked one yet, like their style and want to try it out- this is the best way! 

To me, these sessions are priceless.

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Announce you are pregnant with me! 

3/6/2014

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Maybe that didn't come out right :) If you are pregnant and would like to book a mini session with me to announce it to the world (ahem, Facebook)… here is your chance! 

[coll.neu] photography offers 20 minute mini sessions for $75 to grab a few pictures for the big reveal!
 

Like my regular sessions, you get the files and the rights to print via digital download on Dropbox. Most people receive 20-30 to choose from. If you need help collaging your favorites, I can do that too! 

If you are unsure of HOW to announce it, check out my Pinterest board called [pregnancy announcements]. It is solely dedicated to what I consider are the cutest ideas and options. Have something else in mind? Awesome! Let's do it!
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Andy + Liz announced their pregnancy with [coll.neu] in February 2013 :)  Their son Oliver is now 6 months old! #TBT
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 Spring 2012 - My sister and her husband announced their pregnancy with [coll.neu]. Hailey is now 17 months old #TBT 
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Canvas Deal: (4) 20x24" for $99

3/3/2014

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What's the point of finding AMAZING deals on the internet if you don't share them with your friends and family, right? 

I found a spectacular deal on gallery wrapped canvases. These are 20X24" and will be sure to make a statement. You can buy the bundle of four, for the best savings. Group them together or split them up. Order a couple for yourself, and give the rest as gifts. The possibilities are endless! 

To get this deal, visit the link below. This is the link you purchase through to get the coupon codes, and then you will go to the actual company site to order. It's a two step process, but it saves you over $300, so it is worth the trouble. 

http://collneuphoto.moolala.com/deals/deal/EHA23BJ?cid=5MLQD84&pid=RD1JZPY

A little bit about the company and the canvases:

CanvasLifestyle 
http://www.canvaslifestyle.com
  • $35 for 1, $65 for 2 or $99 for 4
  • Uses the modern giclée printing process
  • Cotton-based canvases are proven to last over 75 years
  • Stretcher bars are kiln-dried for consistent structural strength
  • Borders are applied to wrapped edges, ensuring full image is displayed
  • Arrives ready for hanging
  • Accepts .jpg and .png file formats
  • Free shipping!
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March Special: $250 off 2014 Weddings

3/1/2014

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Did you know…. Colleen means "Irish girl"? Well, I am extending the luck of the Irish to you! Book your 2014 wedding between 3/1-3/31/14 and you will get a free hour of coverage, saving you $250! 


Email me at collneuphoto@gmail.com to see if your date is still available :) 
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Calendar last updated 3/1/14
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    My name is Colleen and I am the artsy brains behind this operation. I spend my free time painting and reading when I am completely caught up on edits, which is almost never. 

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Wedding and Portrait Photography for Southern Indiana and Northern Kentucky- from Tell City to Evansville, Louisville to Owensboro, and beyond. We are available for destination weddings and travel outside of the United States as well, just ask!

Colleen uses a combination of natural light, supplemented flash, and a photo journalistic style to document not only your vision, but, most importantly, your personality. 
The only way to do great work is to love what you do.
-Steve Jobs

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