Sometimes when I show clients their portraits, they say something like, “Wow, I can’t believe that shot turned out like that!” or “That pose felt awkward at the time but it looks great on camera!” Trust me, I always have a vision for the image I want to create and a plan for how to make it happen! It’s all about trusting the process and knowing that you’ve hired a professional photographer who has a few tricks up her sleeve. One of the tricks I use for some sessions is composite photography.

What Is a Composite Photo?

A composite photo is an image I create by using editing tools to combine multiple photos into one image. For example, I might take elements from one photo and put them into another photo, or I might combine the top part of one photo with the bottom of another photo. Composite photography is also how I can take a photo of you against one background and swap out the background for another setting. Composite photography is a common practice in professional photography, especially in newborn photography.

A Composite Photo Example: The Froggy Pose

To give you a better idea of how composite photography works, a prime example is the “froggy pose.” This is a popular type of newborn portrait where it looks like your baby is sitting with their head propped up in their hands. It’s adorable! But it’s not a safe pose for babies to be in. Putting your baby in this pose in “real life” would leave their head unsupported and they could easily fall over too. Instead, I create the look with a composite photo.

Essentially, I first photograph your baby in this position but with me supporting their head from above, and then I photograph them with me supporting their head from below. Using editing software, I carefully and precisely bring parts of each image together in a way that doesn’t show my hand supporting them, so all you see is your baby in the cute froggy pose.

Why Do I Use Composite Photos?

I use composite photography to create an effect in your portraits that I can’t (or shouldn’t) create in “real life.” In the case of certain newborn photography poses like the froggy pose, it’s because that pose isn’t safe for your baby otherwise. This way, I can keep your little one safe at all times while also creating quaint and sweet portraits you’ll love. 

Creating Your Custom Portraits…Composite or Not

Whether or not I use composite photos for your custom photography, I go into every session with the same goal: to create amazing photos that you and your family will treasure for generations. I’ve spent years learning my craft and strengthening my skills, and composite photography is just one of many techniques I use to get those perfect portraits. Contact Jaimié Birtel Photography and let’s book your session!