If there is one thing that makes lifestyle photographer‘s quake in fear (besides a lack of natural light), it is a super small space. We all fantasize about spacious open-concept homes filled with natural light that we can back up in until our hearts are content. The reality of Boston is that we have lots of antique homes with tiny rooms and small windows.

Getting Creative In a Small Space

The epitome of small space comes in the form of a Boston hospital room. Fresh 48 photographers have the unique challenge of working all the angles in a tiny and cluttered room. Our goal as an in-hospital newborn photographer is to focus on the details of this new little being through creative composition. There is no beautiful environment to fall back on!

5 Creative Ideas for Small Spaces

I. Shoot Through the Bassinet

Shooting through the plastic gives your image a creamy feel and focuses the eye more on the subject.

II. Capture the tiniest of details

I am a notoriously wide shooter but this is the time to get right in there and capture all those tiny details that all too quickly disappear. Back wrinkles, wrist rolls, tiny knuckle dimples, wrinkly feet, hospital bracelets.

III. Get Up High

Overhead shooting provides a nice new perspective to your portfolio. I like to use a 24mm lens to make it a little easier on myself when shooting from above. This enables me to not have to carry around a stool.

III. Grab a Silhouette Image

If the light allows, a silhouette of the new family is always a creative way to mix it up. I love how it highlights the look of the new family while also showing the view from their small space looking out on the world.

IV. Use Black + White Conversions to Minimize Distractions

Hospital rooms are not known for their ideal wall colors. I convert a significant amount of each fresh 48 gallery into black and white. This helps the emotion of the image to be at the forefront instead of those mustard yellow walls.

V. Use the Bassinet for a Classic Portrait

The bassinet provides a super neutral backdrop for a nice clean portrait of the baby. It also is on wheels so you can push it right next to the window and take the best advantage of the light.

BONUS: Don’t Forget a Classic Portrait of the Entire Family

Good luck in your next small space! XOXO- Lyndsay