Hiring a Newborn Photographer: Essential Questions to Ask

Whether you’re a brand new mama capturing your baby’s first days or a seasoned mom regretting not hiring a professional the first time, it’s important to consider a photographer for newborn photos! There are many misconceptions and some potentially dangerous practices in newborn photography. For instance, unsupported froggy poses often seen in viral videos can be unsafe. I hope to inform expecting mothers by sharing some important considerations when hiring someone to work with their newborn.

Key Considerations for Hiring Your Newborn Photographer

Here are some questions you should ask your photographer during the pre-consultation phase. Remember, my biggest advice in this genre is to not book a photographer solely based on price. It's crucial to establish trust when hiring someone to handle your fragile newborn.

How Many Newborn Sessions Do You Do Each Month?

A photographer who captures many clients may have less flexibility in scheduling your session. I operate a “low volume, high service” model. This ensures I provide high interaction and service from beginning to end, giving each client my undivided attention.

Do You Have Safety Training in Handling Newborns?

Safety is paramount in newborn photography. Many photographers invest in safety training, both online and in-person. I have completed several classes to ensure I handle newborns with utmost care!

Are Your Props and Fabrics Sanitized?

With fragile immune systems, it is incredibly important to ensure cleanliness. All professionals involved should be healthy, and props must be clean. Before every session, I remove my rings and wash my hands thoroughly. I also keep hand sanitizer nearby. If I ever feel unwell, I reschedule. The safety of babies always comes first!

Do You Provide a Newborn Session Prep Guide?

The moments leading up to a newborn session can feel overwhelming for parents. They wonder about what to provide, what to bring, or how to manage feeding and sleep schedules. I offer a complete prep guide sent to parents a few days before the session. I provide all outfits, blankets, and props so parents can relax.

Is Family Posing Included in the Session?

Family poses are crucial for capturing memories during this special time. Some photographers charge extra for sibling or family poses. I include all of these in my workflow. You deserve to remember this time together with your new addition!

When Should I Contact You to Book My Session?

The best time to reach out is during your pregnancy. I can mark your due date on my calendar. As soon as your baby arrives—within a day or two—please send a quick email or text. This allows me to schedule your session within a week or two.

What Happens During a Posed Newborn Session?

A typical newborn session lasts around three hours. I follow a set workflow using a table. I'll be all set up and ready for you but parents should have the baby fed in advance. Then we begin right away! Parents can relax, read a book, browse studio samples, or even take a nap!

What If the Baby Is Uncooperative?

I have yet to encounter a baby who couldn’t complete a session—but please don’t jinx me! If a baby is unwell or inconsolable to the point where we can't provide a ~30 image gallery, we reschedule at my availability. Each baby has its own personality, and we accommodate unique needs to ensure a calming experience for both parents and babies.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Photographer

Choosing the right newborn photographer is vital to capturing those fleeting moments. A well-planned session creates beautiful memories. Newborn photography is more than just pictures; it’s about documenting the early days of your child’s life.

Experience Matters

When you hire a photographer, you invest in their experience. An experienced photographer brings knowledge about lighting, posing, and safety. They know how to soothe babies to create relaxed and serene images.

Building a Connection

Establishing a good relationship with your photographer helps ease any anxiety. Having a warm and friendly atmosphere allows for better interactions. This connection results in more natural and genuine photographs.

The Role of Recommendations

Don’t hesitate to ask friends or family for recommendations. Check reviews online! Many photographers share their work on social media. This allows you to see their style and see how comfortable they are around babies.

Trusting Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts. Once you’ve asked questions and reviewed portfolios, go with the photographer whose work resonates with you. After all, these photographs will last a lifetime.

In conclusion, choosing the right newborn photographer involves careful consideration. Remember to ask the right questions. Ensure that you are comfortable with their experience, safety measures, and overall approach. After all, capturing this precious time in your life is worth the investment.

And don't forget, if you're looking for a photographer who prioritizes safety, professionalism, and beautiful imagery, I'm here to help. Let's create memories that will last a lifetime!

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*Contact me here to start our journey together!*