Choosing a newborn photographer comes with some important considerations when deciding who will be best for your family. Welcoming a newborn into the world is an unparalleled joy, and every parent wants to preserve those precious details forever. One of the most significant decisions during this time is selecting the right newborn photographer to capture your growing family. Here are 5 things to consider when you are searching for the perfect fit.
Expertise
Expertise matters. Look for photographers specializing in newborn photography. Ask what their experience is in handling infants. Check their portfolio to gauge their style, creativity, and ability to evoke emotions through their work. A seasoned newborn photographer will a good grasp on lighting, posing, and creating a comfortable environment for your baby. There is no regulations on newborns, so ask if they have taken any in person workshops with industry leaders. Often at a workshop they will learn hands on how to pose safely, to avoid any physical discomfort to your baby. Also consider asking if they are CPR trained in case of emergency.
Safety
Next, prioritize safety. Safety should be the top concern during newborn photoshoots. Ensure the photographer follows safety protocols, such as using assistants for certain poses and maintaining a clean and sanitized studio environment. Ask about their experience in handling newborns safely and their training in newborn posing techniques. Some poses should only ever be done as a composite, meaning two images taken separately and put together in Photoshop. If you’d like an example of froggy, which is a composite, you can watch my video here. Babies should never be made to support themselves in an upright position.
Style
Consider style compatibility. Every photographer has a unique style, ranging from traditional and posed setups to lifestyle or documentary-style photography. Choose a photographer whose style aligns with your vision and aesthetic preferences. Whether you prefer classic portraits or candid moments, finding a photographer who can fulfill your artistic vision is crucial. Along with style goes the colors they choose. Do they use only neutrals? Only bold or bright colors? Make sure they have the supplies to use colors you want to have displayed in your home for years to come.
Communication
Communication and rapport are key. A newborn photoshoot is a collaborative effort between you and the photographer. Look for someone who communicates effectively, listens to your ideas, and addresses your concerns. Establishing a comfortable rapport with the photographer will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Will they allow you to visit the studio, whether it’s to help plan colors and props for your session, or see what they have in studio for your visit. Do they have a client closet, can you try outfits on ahead of time? Will they let you give opinions on setups or do they do what they want only?
Affordability
Don’t forget about affordability. While quality should never be compromised, consider your budget when selecting a newborn photographer. Compare packages, pricing, and included services to find the best value for your investment. Keep in mind that professional photography is an investment in preserving timeless memories for years to come. Often pricing and experience go hand in hand. There is a photographer for everyone, finding the one that gives you a good value for their pricing can feel like an extensive search. But since it’s not a session you can redo if you aren’t happy with the results, being sure you aren’t trying only basing your search on price can benefit you greatly in the end.
In conclusion, choosing a newborn photographer requires careful consideration of expertise, safety measures, style compatibility, communication, and affordability. By prioritizing these factors, you can ensure a memorable and stress-free experience while capturing your newborn’s early days.
