Welcoming a new baby into the family is one of the most precious and sacred times. It is a time that is worth being documented. Imagine, all their sweet details, their emerging personalities, your connection and love all captured into a series of photographs.
When you start searching for a newborn photographer it can be a little overwhelming. There are so many photographers offering newborn photography services and so many different styles to choose from. Hopefully I can give you a few ideas that will help make the decision process a little easier.First, I recommend that you have a look through a few different photographers’ portfolios. Which images speak the most to you? What types of images evoke the most emotion in you?
- Do you like babies carefully posed in props and elaborate set ups with lots of colors?
- Do you prefer a lifestyle session in your own home? Where real life, mostly candid moments are captured?
- Do you want your newborn photographed in the hospital right after they are born?
- Or do you prefer a minimalist style where connection and the natural beauty of your baby are the focus?
There is no right or wrong answer! You need to decide what type of style you are most drawn to. How do you want your little one’s earliest days captured? You will cherish and look back at these photos for many years to come, so it’s worth spending some time thinking over this!
A note about experience and safety
First and foremost, the safety of your newborn and family is of the utmost importance. Your newborn is fragile and should be handled by someone who is experienced, gentle and patient. They should have knowledge and experience in posing, handling and monitoring newborns. They should know which poses can be done safely and which ones need to be done as composites (merging two images together afterward).
Following your baby’s cues and remaining flexible is vital. Your photographer should be willing to adjust their plans to work around your baby’s needs. They should be willing to take breaks and allow time for feeding. Your little one’s safety and comfort throughout the session should not be compromised.
It is so important that you trust your photographer. After all they are handling your sweet new baby! Here are some questions that you can ask your potential photographer to ensure that you are making the right choice. They should be more than willing to answer your questions!
- How long have you been working with newborns and what is your experience?
- What happens if my baby cries? Do you have experience settling fussy newborns?
- What type of safety and hygiene standards do you practice in your studio and during a newborn session?
- Can we take breaks during our session if my baby needs to eat?
- Do you have any experience working with medically fragile infants?
- What experience do you have working with twins or triplets?
- Do you use composite images to ensure a newborn’s safety?
- Are you a registered and insured business?
- What style of newborn photography do you offer?
- Do you have a studio, or do you come to my home?
