Preparing for a new baby is a very special occasion and parents are often looking for the newborn photographer. There are a lot of decisions to be made at this time. Some include choosing a baby’s name, setting up the nursery, deciding on whether to breastfeed or use formula, finding and hiring a nanny, and making arrangements for maternity and paternity leave. All of those are important decisions as is choosing the best newborn photographer. The family and newborn portraits will be the one of the lasting souvenirs of this special and wonderful time.
Here are 6 things to consider when choosing the best newborn photographer for you.
1. Style
Each photographer typically has a distinct style and area of expertise. Check the photographer’s website for their work portfolio and decide if this is the style of photography you are drawn to. For example: Are you looking for posed newborn sessions with lots of props? Are you looking for a lifestyle newborn session in the comfort of your home? Or, are you looking for a hospital session within first 2 days known as “Fresh 48?” Make sure the photographer is consistent in their photographic style and has many examples of the style you are looking for on their website and blog.
2. Location and Timing of the Session
Do you want your session to take place in the comfort of your own home or do you prefer a studio? Each photographer provides has their own timing window of when they will photograph the newborn session. If you are looking for the posed newborn sessions then the photographer will usually do the session during the first 5-20 days. If you prefer to wait a few weeks to settle in as a new family and have a more relaxed session then 2-3 weeks mark is usually a great mark to schedule your session. Mom gets more time to recover from the birth.
3. Experience and Reviews
Ask around and check for the photographer’s experience. A good place to ask for references is your local mom’s group. You can also check the Facebook Reviews or Google Reviews for the photographer you have in mind. You want to make sure previous clients have been happy and their feedback resonates with you before you schedule your session.
4. Advance Booking
Most newborn sessions are booked when the Mom is still pregnant. The date is then adjusted/confirmed once the baby is born. In order to provide a great experience with amazing quality portraits and flexibility with the booking date, most photographers will book a limited number of newborn sessions per month. Additionally, booking the session while you are still pregnant is something that can be taken care of in advance and one less thing to do once the baby arrives. Although there may be availability when booking last minute, booking in advance ensures the best experience and a secured session date. Check with your photographer on how far in advance you need to book your session.
5. Family, Siblings and Pets
Do you have younger or older children or do grandparents live in town? Wouldn’t it be nice to include them in some of the photos? Do you have a family dog or other pet that you would like to be part of the session? Find out how many people are included in the session fee and if there will be any additional charges with additional extended family.
6. Consultation
Does the photographer meet for the in-person or online consultation prior to the actual photo session? Every photo session should be custom tailored to each family. You want to make sure all the details are taken care of beforehand.