Official Newborn Photography Guidelines — Jaweed Studio

Please read these points before we start. Our goal is to create a
photo
that is safe, compliant, and accepted by the municipality (ID issuing offices).

Process & key points

• Baby’s position: the baby lies on their back on a clean, light, plain background. To capture an accurate
  photo,
  the head and face are aligned straight towards the camera.
• Safe head support: to control the angle of the face and protect the neck,
  a parent’s or photographer’s palm is placed under or beside the baby’s head to keep it steady.
• Clothing & appearance: please tidy the collar and outfit; hats, headbands, and distracting accessories are removed from the frame.
• Gaze to camera: with a gentle voice or a small rattle, we encourage the baby to look at the lens.

Why place a hand under the head?

• Newborns do not yet have strong neck muscles.
• This position helps keep the face straight towards the camera and reduces head tilt.
• It is purely for safety and completely standard in newborn photography. It also supports the quality of the final
  photo.

Important requirements for municipality acceptance

• The eyes must be open in the
  photo; therefore, the baby needs to be awake.
• If the baby is asleep, you may wake them calmly and without rush. We understand this can take some time—no worries; we allow enough time.
• Both ears must be fully visible; please ensure hands or clothing do not cover the ears.
• Face straight to camera, mouth preferably closed, with a light and plain background.

About the “supporting hand” in the final photo

Some authorities (including municipalities) do not accept photos where a hand is visible behind the head.
Don’t worry: the hand is used only for the baby’s safety.
During editing, we professionally remove the hand in Photoshop so the final
photo
meets acceptance criteria.

Safety first

• Your baby’s safety is our absolute priority. We will pause the session whenever needed so the baby can settle.
• If the baby cries or is unsettled, please take time for soothing, feeding, changing, or cuddling; once calm, we continue without haste.
• At any sign of fatigue or discomfort, we secure the baby’s comfort first, then resume the session.