Lights...

Lighting is probably THE most important aspect to taking great photos. If you do not have enough light, your photo can turn out grainy and blurry, as well as have hard shadows. What you see with your eyes is not necessarily what you'll get from your camera. Make sure you have adequate lighting from all angles if possible. Natural light is BEST. If you are photographing your baby, put her by a window so you can use as much natural light as possible. If you have a tripod, use it. Any movement on your part may cause blur. If possible, do not use a flash as it will create an unnatural look and unwanted shadows. If you have a diffuser for your camera flash, try using it. If you don't have one, try taping a piece of white tissue over your flash and it will act as a diffuser. Pretty neat little trick!

Camera...

At least 3 megapixels is recommended, and set your camera's photo quality at the highest JPG setting. It's easy for us to size photos down, but impossible to increase photo size without losing image quality. Shoot in color mode, even if the photo is going to be black and white or sepia. We can do all of that editing for you.

Action!

We want your subject to be the center of attention in your photo. Try using a solid colored background behind or under your baby. Maybe a solid colored sheet or baby blanket in a nice soft color. Bright colored backgrounds can detract from the subject and compete for attention in the photo. Your baby's face and eyes will pop and be more dramatic without all the hubbub behind or next to her. Sleeping babies make wonderful subjects as well!

Overall, have fun and don't be afraid of taking a lot of photos. Better to have too many to choose from than not enough!