Featuring the work of APNPI Ambassador Amanda Capello of Acapello Photography
Beanbag posing can feel intimidating at first — so many tiny details, angles, and adjustments! But once you learn how to control the flow and fine-tune each pose, it becomes second nature.
As you begin to recognize baby cues and find your rhythm, the beanbag becomes your creative playground — a place to sculpt light, softness, and connection.
Below, Amanda shares her go-to poses and how to actually make them work:
Bum Up Pose
The classic. Everyone loves it — and for good reason. When done right, it beautifully highlights baby’s delicate features and natural curves.
Pro Tips:
- Wait until baby is in a deep sleep — this pose requires total relaxation.
- Keep one knee tucked under and one extended for that natural, asymmetrical flow.
- Gently pull the elbow forward so you can see those sweet fingers resting near the cheek.
- Use a small rolled cloth under baby’s wrist or knee to subtly lift and round out the shape.
Lighting Tip: Position your light above and slightly toward baby’s face. It creates that perfect, soft contour that makes this pose shine.
Side-Lying Pose
Soft, serene, and tender — this pose melts hearts every time.
How to Set It Up:
- Roll baby gently onto their side, knees curled toward the belly.
- Nestle their hands together under the cheek for a cozy, natural look.
- Tilt the head slightly toward the camera to elongate the profile.
The secret is roundness and softness. Avoid harsh angles, and let the pose flow naturally. This one transitions beautifully into wrapped or parent poses for a seamless session flow.
Swaddled Pose
When baby says “no” to naked posing, it’s time for the swaddle save. This setup brings instant calm and comfort.
Make It Work:
- Use a stretchy wrap and keep the fabric tension even for a polished finish.
- If possible, position the hands near the chin — it feels intentional and editorial.
- Layer in textured wraps or add a bonnet or hat to elevate the look.
Perfect for alert or fussy babies, the swaddled pose can reset the tone of your session and give you beautiful, gallery-worthy images.
Detail Shots
Don’t skip the little things. Detail shots add heart and storytelling to every gallery.
Capture the Magic:
- Use a macro lens or zoom in close to capture lashes, lips, toes, and fuzzy shoulders.
- Shoot from above with a wide aperture (f/2–f/2.8) for dreamy, creamy blur.
- Convert a few to black and white to add timeless depth and emotion.
Every baby teaches you something new. The real secret to beanbag posing isn’t a perfect pose list — it’s learning how to read baby cues, adapt on the fly, and let patience guide your creativity.
Because the truth is, beanbag posing is less about perfection and more about patience, intention, and connection.
Continue Learning with Amanda
Ready to turn your creativity and client experience into a consistent source of income?
We have not just one, but two incredible resources to help you grow your photography business:
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How to Monetize Your Holiday Sessions – Learn Amanda’s step-by-step system for planning, pricing, and selling profitable holiday sessions that delight clients and attract repeat bookings.
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Posing for Profit Photography Course – Master posing techniques that make your sessions look polished and professional while saving time and stress.
Whether you want to maximize your seasonal sessions or elevate every session you shoot, Amanda’s courses give you the tools and strategies to increase revenue and client satisfaction.
About Amanda:
Amanda is an APNPI Ambassador, is accredited in maternity with APNPI, is an APNPI educator, an incredible contributor to the APNPI community, and she creates some of the most stunning imagery in Maternity Photography we’ve seen!
This former high school math teacher turned professional maternity and newborn photographer describes her style as minimalist, elegant, monochromatic, editorial and timeless.
She has built her business over the last decade and has been honoured to be featured on the cover of both shutter up magazine, and shutter scene magazine. Amanda has also been the featured photographer in many online magazines and has won awards including top local photographer in a local 85086 magazine, as well as top photographer from expertise.
If you’re not already familiar with Amanda and her work, you’re going to enjoy getting to know her.
See more of Amanda’s work at: Amanda Capello Photography
Learn More About Becoming an APNPI Member