Take lots of shots with different perspectives

Even professional photographers have to take numerous photos just to get a few great ones, so don't be hesitant to shoot a lot of pictures of your baby in many different settings using different perspectives. You can always delete the ones you don't want.

Shooting at eye level is a good rule of thumb — but also try lots of different angles and make sure you use your zoom to get in close.

Professional photographers take the camera everywhere and you should to — the grocery store, the park, daycare — you never know when a great opportunity will arise.

Time of day matters

The best lighting for photography is just after sunrise and right before sunset.

Harsh midday light can make your baby squint or create shadows on your baby's face, so if you're taking pictures outside in the afternoon, find a shady spot.

Also, try using flash outdoors to even out shadows.

Coax an expression

Whether playing peek-a-boo or making silly noises, do whatever it takes to make your little one smile. Having a partner to work with may make things easier.

Set up the shot while he or she generates the giggle.

Create a simple background

The simpler the background for your photos, the better.

Try positioning your baby against a solid-colored background. That way, nothing will detract from the focus of your photos: your child!

If you have to contend with objects in the natural environment, zoom in close to remove distracting elements from your photo.

Catch the action

Getting your baby to sit still for pictures can be challenging, but with the right techniques, you can capture great photos—even on the move.

Depending on your camera, it can take an entire second from the moment you press the shutter to when your camera actually takes the picture. This gap in time is called "shutter lag," and it can be the difference between getting action shots and missing them. Here's how to prevent shutter lag:

• 1. Press the shutter down lightly, about halfway. This will lock the focus on your subject.
  
• 2. Continue to hold the button partially down until you're ready to shoot. This lets you take the picture much faster because you're already in focus.

Think beyond color

Don't limit yourself to color photos. Black-and-white photography has a timeless, romantic quality perfectly suited to baby photos.

The bracketing feature on select digital cameras may let you record three versions of each photo (color, black and white, and sepia, for example).

You can choose your favorite later. Lots of photo software allows you to change the color of your photos once they are downloaded to your computer.

Add people to your picture

When you spend time with friends and family, everyone wants to hold the baby.

Take those opportunities to capture your child being held lovingly by Aunt Janie or sitting on his sister's lap.

Set up shots with your child being held lovingly by friends and family. You will capture great moments, and you can print extra copies to give as gifts.

Baby photo projects

Baby photos are made for sharing, and there are so many creative possibilities.

Try to make some babies Calendar, babies photo book or baby slideshow. Do whatever you want.