Picture Perfect: 8 Tips for Great Baby and Child Photos

The most timeless portraits, whether candid or posed, are those that capture the essence of the child. In other words, all the other things in the picture should contribute to the subject. For example, a plain background is better than busy wallpaper. A baby holding a simple rattle photographs better than one surrounded by dozens of stuffed animals. "Be aware of your surroundings," advises Steffen, suggesting that parents look around the child for garbage cans, wires, or tree branches in odd places before taking photos.

If you use a prop, it should be understated. "You want the subject to be primary," Horton says. For example, if you dress your baby in a pink dress and she sits against a white background, don't use a dark teddy bear as a prop. Instead, go with a white or a pastel bear.