How to choose the right Newborn Photographer-
7 things every new parent should know.
Bringing a new baby into this world is a truly precious experience and is one you want to cherish and remember forever. The newborn stage of life really doesn’t last very long, and capturing it is something that most parents want to do. We all know that photos are passed down from generation to generation, so having a professional photographer capture this fleeting moment in time for you, is really important, but how to do choose the right photographer for you and your new baby?
Whether you’re planning ahead during your pregnancy or already cradling your little bundle of joy, here’s everything you need to consider when choosing the perfect newborn photographer.
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Safety First! Your newborn’s safety is the top priority.
A professional newborn photographer will know how to gently pose your baby, use safe props and keep the environment warm and calm. Look for a photographer who is experienced in handling newborns and trained in safe posing techniques. They should: Always support baby’s head and neck, use sanitized, baby-safe props and never force a pose or risk baby’s comfort.
Before booking you should ask;
i) Are you trained in Newborn Safety?
ii) What are the safety practices you have in place in the studio?
iii) Do you work with an assistant/spotter, if not will you allow me to spot my baby during the session?
iv) How do you sanitise props and the studio?
v) Will my newborn be supported by human hands in all upright poses?
vi) What will happen in the case of illness?
vii) Do you have insurance as a Newborn Photographer?
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Style Matters!
Every photographer has their own artistic style. Some specialize in posed studio portraits with soft backdrops and props, while others focus on lifestyle photography, capturing natural moments in your home environment.
Before booking look through their portfolio and ask yourself;
i) Do the photos in their portfolio make you feel something? Do you love them and feel like you would love to own photos like these of your baby?
ii) Can you imagine your baby in these photos?
iii) Are these the type of photos that you would like to display on your walls or share with your family and friends?
iv) Do they use colours and tones that match your personal style?
v) Do you like their editing style?
vi) What are their family photos like? What are their sibling photos like?
NOTE: If you find yourself wanting to show a photographer lots of examples of another photographer’s work, then they may not be the right photographer for you.
3. Experience is important
Photographing Newborns is very different to other portrait photography. There are many specialised skills that the photographer needs to proficient in. It requires patience, gentleness, and a deep understanding of a newborn’s needs. Look for someone who specialises in newborn photography and who has the understanding, experience and skill to keep your baby, safe whilst capturing beautiful moments for you. It is also important that the photographer knows how to manage siblings of the newborn during a session as well.
Before booking a session, you should ask:
i) How much experience do you have in photographing Newborn babies?
ii) Do you specialise in newborn photography?
iii) How many years have you been photographing newborns?
iv) What training have you undertaken in Newborn Specific Photography?
5.Consider the location!
The space in which the session is carried out may vary. Some photographers work out of home studios, whilst some hire commercial spaces, and some will travel to you, and offer in-home sessions.
Things to consider:
i) Is the studio space close by or convenient to locate?
ii) Are there safe, easy to locate parking facilities?
iii) Is the studio space big enough for you and your family to attend?
iv) Are there parks or other attractions close by for older siblings to use during the session?
v) Is the studio baby friendly, comfortable, safe and clean?
6.Look at the packages!
Every photographer structures their pricing differently. Some offer digital packages and offer print only products. Some offer all-inclusive digital packages, whilst some charge a session fee and digital images and products are sold as an add on.
You need to be clear on the investment costs so that there are no nasty surprises at the end of the session.
Before booking you should ask:
i) What is included in the packages?
ii) Are digital or extra digital images an extra cost?
iii) Can I purchase extra images?
iv) How long does a session go for? Are sessions timed?
v) What are the costs of prints and printing products?
vi) Do I have a print release to print my photos where I want, or can only you print them?
vii) What is the average turnaround time for an edited gallery?
7.Check Reviews and Recommendations:
Word of mouth is powerful. Ask fellow parents, friends and family who they recommend and why they recommend them. Keep in mind that something that is important to you may not be as important to another person recommending the photographer.
Online reviews can also provide insight into the photographer’s professionalism, patience, and ability to work with babies and new parents. Look for testimonials that mention:
A calm and gentle demeanour
A smooth, stress-free experience
Quality of the final images
You can also ask the photographer to produce previous testimonials and examples of their work.
Final thoughts:
Choosing a newborn photographer is more than finding someone who takes nice pictures. It’s about trusting them to handle your brand new, precious baby with the utmost of care and with the utmost skill. It’s also about trusting them to produce pictures that your family will cherish for generations to come. Take your time, do the research, ask the questions and choose someone who you will feel comfortable working with.
Enquire about a newborn session with us today.
