Finding The Right Newborn Photographer

Finding The Right Newborn Photographer

Finding the right newborn photographer involves more than just picking someone with a camera. You are looking for someone to safely handle and beautifully capture your baby’s earliest moments. I would like to share some tips so you can find the right fit for you!

1. Look for Specialization

Choose a photographer who specializes in newborn photography. This means they:

• Understand newborn safety and handling. 
• Have experience posing newborns safely and comfortably. 
• Know how to work around feeding and sleep schedules.
• Understands not only that you may very well be nervous. But can assure you that your newborn is in safe hands. 

2. Review Their Portfolio

Check their website or social media:

• Do you like their style? (light and airy, dark and moody, studio vs. lifestyle) 
• Are the images sharp, well-lit, and clean? 
• Do the babies look comfortable and natural, not awkwardly posed? 

3. Ask About Safety Practices

A good newborn photographer will:

• Be trained in newborn safety. 
• Use sanitizing practices. 
• Have insurance and possibly CPR certification.
  Don’t be afraid to ask directly about their safety training.
• Any question is a good question if you feel the need to ask it. Do not be afraid of insulting or upsetting. Our job as newborn photographers is to make sure that as new parents, you understand what happens in each session.

4. Read Reviews

Check reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, and look for:

• Consistent praise for professionalism, patience, and results. 
• How they handled difficult sessions or fussy babies. 
• How quickly they delivered the final photos. 

5. Discuss the Process

Understand what’s included in the session:

• Location: In-home, in-studio, or on-location? 
• Session length: Newborn sessions can take 2–4 hours. 
• Props and outfits: Do they provide them, or should you? 
• Turnaround time: When will you receive your images? 
• Pricing: What’s included in packages (prints, digital files, albums)? 

6. Book Early

Newborn photographers often recommend booking during your second trimester, especially if you know without any doubt this is the photographer that you want to take your newborn photos. Some parents are not sure they want newborn pictures taken, and suddenly baby is here. I am often called to ask if I have availability. Do not think just because you didn’t book in advance that you are too late! Call your favorite choices, don’t be afraid to ask them for recommendations if they are not available. As photographers, we do work together in sending clients to the other photographers that we know, love, and trust.

7. Trust Your Instincts

If the photographer is warm, responsive, and makes you feel confident in their skills, that’s a great sign. This is a personal and emotional session — comfort matters. I find a great way for this is to talk on the phone! I love my clients talking to me before a shoot. It makes things so much more fun and exciting. I like my new moms to know I am a mom too, I am not just a photographer, but I can also relate to many things my clients may be experiencing!