Need suggestions on setup

[Liesl]

I have an opportunity to photograph a newborn this Friday, however, it won't be until night time. I know NOTHING about lighting at all, so wanted to check if this would work or not.

I'm planning on purchasing some black fleece for a backdrop and for draping over a beanbag. For lighting, all I will have are two lamps (I can remove the shades if necessary). Would it work to place one on the floor at each side of the beanbag? I'm at a loss here. I know I'm not going to get perfect shots, but I know if I could pull one or two off, I'd make the Nana incredibly happy. Oh yea, I don't have a flash, just the one onboard so bouncing isn't an option. I'm also working with the kit lens on my XTI.

Thanks!!

[Playm]

set your White Balance correctly
make sure the lights aren't too 'glaring' on the infant
meter on the baby
shoot on manual (adjust as needed)
relax - the more you enjoy the baby, the more opportunities you'll find for good shots.
take your time and watch the interaction between parents/child. .. let them know that you've got plenty of time so they'll relax too. It should be fun.. and that feeling is something they'll associate with the photos. You can't shoot too many photos. .. dump the dogs and keep 10 - 15 of the best to show them.

Google baby photos to get an idea of which poses you like. Make a list of poses & ideas you'd like to try. It's always good to go in with a plan. ... though, plans can change with different environments. .. but that's ok too. .. look at it as an unexpected opportunity.

*************
edited to add: I just looked at your website.. You won't have ANY trouble with this sitting! You already know how to interact with kids! Nice Shots!

[Liesl]

set your White Balance correctly
make sure the lights aren't too 'glaring' on the infant
meter on the baby
shoot on manual (adjust as needed)
relax - the more you enjoy the baby, the more opportunities you'll find for good shots.
take your time and watch the interaction between parents/child. .. let them know that you've got plenty of time so they'll relax too. It should be fun.. and that feeling is something they'll associate with the photos. You can't shoot too many photos. .. dump the dogs and keep 10 - 15 of the best to show them.

Google baby photos to get an idea of which poses you like. Make a list of poses & ideas you'd like to try. It's always good to go in with a plan. ... though, plans can change with different environments. .. but that's ok too. .. look at it as an unexpected opportunity.

*************
edited to add: I just looked at your website.. You won't have ANY trouble with this sitting! You already know how to interact with kids! Nice Shots!

Thanks much. You made me less nervous about this. I think the key is relax! Thanks for the compliments on my website too!! :)