Parents Guide On How To Plan Baptism Photos

First off, CONGRATULATIONS on your new little bundle of sweetness!

If you’re reading this, your family likely just grew by at least one! You’re probably wondering if baptism photos are a thing, and if so how you even go about planning them. I understand, as a parent with a newborn or young baby, you’re right in the thick of the “newness” that comes with a big change in your family. Maybe even a bit sleep deprived, and keeping an interesting sleep schedule, am I right? Late night feedings, and reverse cycling sleep schedules are definitely a thing. Imagining planning a special event like your baby’s baptism is probably even a bit of a project for you right now.

But let me help you a bit. This is a special day that only comes once in a lifetime for most, and it’s a big one, and one they likely won’t remember either. So, documenting it not only for them, but you (and family, and their baby books, and all the other creative ways you can enjoy and share your baby’s baptism ceremony with others)... is so incredibly important because you’re likely going to be busy being involved in the ceremony and won’t have as much time to just watch from the sidelines.

Inviting a photographer to help you capture your newborn or child’s baptism is saying “YES” to a more relaxed, fluid, and intentional ceremony where you can enjoy yourself and not bat an eye at the idea of having to take photos or videos, or missing a moment. And saying no to carrying around that thought in the back of your head “I hope my family and friends share the photos and videos with me after” because you realize as it’s happening you won’t have any of them from their perspective, or from the pews. Instead, you have this moment right now, and that’s it. And you’re not even taking any right now because you’re IN the ceremony. I know, it’s a whammy!

So consider this…This is the day that your little one is the center of attention and the spotlight is on them, and you get to just embrace, enjoy, and witness this special moment, and know it’s all being documented beautifully and effortlessly without you having to stress for another moment. You can breathe a sigh of relief as you get to see your sweet baby be baptized and get to celebrate with your family. 

A black and white photo of a boy getting baptized.

How to get the best photos of your baby’s baptism:

Baptisms are packed with moments you’ll want to remember forever. 

The ceremony itself is full of important moments, like the pouring of the holy water, the anointing, and the lighting of the baptismal candle. You’ll definitely want to make sure these are on your photo list you provide to your photographer. 

But don’t forget about the reactions from your family, too! Those proud smiles, the happy tears. These are the little moments that add so much emotion to your photos, and are definitely moments that you will appreciate being able to look back at.

Family photos are a must!

Family is everything, especially on a day like this. Make sure to get both the formal family portraits and those candid shots with everyone—your immediate family, godparents, and even extended family who made it to the celebration. These are the photos that will be cherished for years, the ones that capture the love and support surrounding your little one. You’re probably going to dress up the whole family and maybe your extended family is coming from out of town to celebrate. Let’s take advantage of the special time and get some family portraits as well as extended family portraits before or after the ceremony! And if you’re having a gathering or party afterward, don’t skip out on those photos either! I recommend not only the ceremony but also the reception after because they are both celebrations of an important milestone of your child’s life, and your family as a whole.

Little details are easy to overlook… really?

Yes really! And let’s not forget about the little details. Things like the baptismal gown, the candles, the Bible, and any other special symbols—they’re all part of the story. Capturing detail shots (what us photographers sometimes also call “flat lays” are another pre-ceremony option). This means laying out sentimental or important detail items on a flat surface (maybe even with a fabric laid down underneath it) and your photographer can take some very special detail shots that will evoke all the feels!

Even just capturing up close details of their gown, candles, the bible, or other important elements can really pull your photography all together, even if it’s not done in a flat lay style, but instead while they are wearing and using the items. Imagine having a personalized heirloom album of just their baptism, or a custom photo book printed. What a lovely way to commemorate this milestone and special tradition!

What should my baby wear for their baptism?

Now, let’s talk about outfit for the big day. For your baby, a classic white baptismal gown is always a good choice and is pretty traditional. it’s timeless and makes them the center of attention.

For everyone else, think formal but comfortable. Soft, muted, or pastel colors are great because they’re elegant without stealing the spotlight from your little one. And remember, comfort is key! You want everyone to feel good, especially in a church setting where you might be sitting for a while. The last thing you want is for someone to be fidgeting with their clothes during the ceremony or during family portraits.

Planning with your baptism photographer beforehand:

One of the best things you can do to make sure your photos turn out great is to have a good chat with your photographer before the big day. Tell them what you’re hoping for, any special moments you want to be sure to capture (photo list),, and go over the timeline and event activities together. This way, everyone’s on the same page, and you can relax knowing that your photographer knows exactly what you’re looking for. Don’t forget to share details about the venue, too—like if there are any rules about where photographers can stand or how much flash they can use.

And if the lighting in the church is tricky, let your photographer know so they can plan for it. I recommend these conversations to happen as early as possible in your planning journey because it also lets your photographer reserve enough time in their calendar for both the ceremony and the reception (if you’re having one), and any additional photo sets and photography ideas you and they have. If your photographer is experienced in baptisms they likely will be able to give some really good ideas and tips for how to structure your ceremony, event, photos, and the overall timeline and layout. 

Why does a professional baptism photographer matter?

Now, I know it might be tempting to have a friend or family member snap some photos, but hiring a professional photographer can make a huge difference. Someone with experience in baptism photography knows how to capture those sacred moments with the care and respect they deserve. Plus, they’ve got the photography background (experience, skills, knowledge) to handle any lighting challenges and the photography equipment to get the best shots.

And the best part? An experienced baptism photographer will be almost invisible during the ceremony, and yet they can still capture all the important moments without interrupting the flow and enjoyment of the event for everyone else.  

As someone who spent years attending church every Sunday and even went to Catholic school, I get how important baptism ceremonies are. I approach each one with a deep respect and understanding, making sure to capture all the meaningful moments without ever getting in the way. I’ve even had pastors and parents thank me for being so discreet and thoughtful during the ceremony.

By following these tips and working with a photographer who understands the significance of the day, you’ll end up with a beautiful collection of photos that you’ll treasure for years. Your child’s baptism is a beautiful occasion worth celebrating, and with the right preparation, you’ll have stunning images to look back on for a lifetime, and so will they! 

Have a baptism coming up in the San Francisco Bay Area? I’m located in Marin County, and have had the opportunity to work with churches and families all over the Bay Area, as a baptism photographer, newborn, maternity, and family photographer. I am always open to chatting about how to timestamp a special day in your little one's life!

Should I hire a baptism photographer if my child is older?

YES!!! And let me also note, if your child is being baptized when they aren’t an infant or newborn, but instead they are older (or maybe they are newly adopted, or ready to be re-baptized?)…their baptism is just as special and deserving of photos they can appreciate for years to come!

Baptisms are beautiful at ALL ages and stages, and they are magical and deserve to be celebrated, cherished, and documented. Reach out to me and let’s chat about unique ways we can capture your special day together, while kicking stress out the door! You in? 

Learn more about how we can work together for Baptism and other cultural traditions at https://www.minianna.com/baptism - you can book a free consultation call with me, or reach out via email with questions. I’m here to help make your day as carefree, enjoyable, and magical as possible!