Documenting your baby's first year is something you'll never regret! If we had to guess, you're already snapping lots of photos and videos of them on your phone already.

Here are a few simple tips for taking great photos!

Use Natural Light

Turn off the lights in the room and use window light.

Position baby with the window to the left or right of their face, not above or below their head, think about lighting up their adorable cheeks.

Avoid Harsh Shadows In the Afternoon Afternoon light, usually noon to 1pm casts very harsh shadows. If possible, try taking photos before or after.

Take photos when your baby is happy and awake!

We love the idea of keeping the photo taking simple and easy. If you miss the exact day of your baby’s monthly birthday, no one will ever know! That being said, if they’re having a fussy day it’s ok to skip photos. Try for another time, maybe after they’ve eaten.

Take LOTS of pictures.  LOTS.

Babies, especially as they grow will wiggle around lots. You can edit down your photos later to pick a couple of your favorites to print for your baby memory book.

Use the Live Photo Option

If you are taking pictures on your phone and there is a “Live” photo option, it's a great way to make sure you get one image you love and a great way to get a few frames at once. You can select your favorite frame in the live photo!

Use an editing app

Even with the perfect lighting, you’ll likely have to increase the exposure a little. Make sure the highlights or bright spots still have a little detail so they’re not totally washed out. It also helps when printing to add just a little brightness. If you have good lighting, I like to avoid a lot of filters. They can make skin tones look off.

Add Your Photos to a Separate Album

Add baby’s photos that you plan to print in a separate album on your phone. It’ll make selecting photos easier when you’re ready to print! PRINT THOSE PHOTOS Don’t skip the printing! You’ll be so glad you got your photos off your phone or camera and in to your hands so you can look back on them for years to come.