What to consider when booking a newborn photographer

As a new parent/parent to be, you’re probably experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. The last thing on your mind may be taking photos of your little one, but trust me, you’ll want to capture those precious moments because a newborn changes faster than you can imagine. That’s where a newborn photographer comes in!

Choosing a newborn photographer can seem like a big task. Afterall, your baby is only a true newborn once, kind of like your wedding only happens once, you’ll want to do it right! Here are some tips on how to choose the perfect newborn photographer for you.

1. Look at their portfolio: One of the most important things to consider when choosing a newborn photographer is their portfolio. This is a collection of their best work and will give you an idea of their style and skills. Do you like their style? Even within newborn photography there are so many styles that can be done. Some are more moody and use a lot of color, others are all white and bright. What about posing? Do you like a more lifestyle approach or do you love a perfectly posed baby? There is no right or wrong, it’s more about what you’re drawn to and the type of photography you want displayed in your home. Also, make sure you’re taking a deep dive into their work. You may see a perfectly curated website over 200 different sessions but be sure to ask to see a couple of full galleries of just one baby to get a true feel of how the entire session flows together.
2. Ask for their experience: Newborn photography is a specialized field, and it takes experience to capture the perfect shot. Look for a photographer who has been in the business for a while and has plenty of experience working with newborns. Ask about their training and certifications, as well as any specialized equipment they may use. With newborn photography safety is a top concern. You may not realize it but many of the photos you see of babies are what photographers call composites. As in they’ve taken two images, usually each with a spotters hand nearby, and merged them together in photoshop. This way the baby was always supported and safe in that pose. Some newbie photographers or those that are lesser trained may take shortcuts in these areas and inadvertently put the baby at risk.
3. Consider their availability: You’ll want to schedule your session prior to having your baby. Newborn photography is typically done within the first two weeks of life, so make sure you schedule your session in advance. Newborn photography is a very niche profession and a lot of photographers only take so many client due dates per month so they can ensure time to get their clients in.
4. Discuss pricing and packages: Finally, consider the cost of hiring a newborn photographer. While you may be tempted to go with the cheapest option, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. A quality photographer will likely charge more, but the end result will be worth it. Make sure to discuss pricing and packages before booking your session so that you know exactly what you’re getting. Some photographers offer photos with siblings and parents, others may have an upcharge for this sort of thing. You want to know exactly who will be photographed, any additional costs you may incur with outfits or products, how many images you’ll get to choose from and what the process is for ordering your final portraits.
5. Read reviews and ask for referrals: Word of mouth is a powerful tool, so ask your friends and family for recommendations. If they’ve had a positive experience with a photographer, chances are you will too. You can also read online reviews to see what other parents have to say about their experiences
6. Ask for a consultation: Most veteran photographers will offer a free in person consultation. This is really the best way to get to know them and to make sure you’re a good fit for one another. Take a tour of the studio, check out what props are offered, and get an idea of what kind of prints/artwork you can expect to choose from.

Chances are you’re already following some photographers who’s work you really love. I’d suggest reaching out to a few of them and see what they have to offer specifically for newborn photography because not all photography genres are created equally. Remember, these photos will be cherished for years to come, so choose wisely!

To see what a newborn session with me looks like head on over to the newborn gallery and see some cute squishy faces!

https://ashleywilderphotography.com/newborn-gallery