So you are looking for a photographer, but it is getting a bit overwhelming!
When it comes to capturing those precious early moments of your newborn, choosing the right photographer is essential. Newborn photography requires a unique set of skills and expertise to ensure the safety and comfort of your baby while producing beautiful and timeless images. To help you make the best choice, here are the top 10 things to consider when booking a newborn photographer.
Experience and Expertise
Different photography genres require unique and vastly different skills, and newborn photography is no exception. Look for a photographer who specializes in newborns and has ample experience working with infants. They should have a deep understanding of the nuances in handling and posing newborns safely, ensuring both the baby's comfort and the quality of the photographs. Take note of how long they have been photographing newborns, as someone with 10 years in photographing weddings with stunning wedding galleries may well have no working experience with babies. This is my most important point to consider, as new babies are very delicate, and posing them wrongly can carry severe risk of harm. You need to know that your baby is in safe hands.
Safety Training and Precautions
The safety of your newborn is paramount during a photoshoot. Make sure the photographer has received adequate safety training and has protocols in place to handle newborns safely. They should know how to support the baby's head and body when posing them, and always have a spotter nearby for additional support. Some poses or props you may have seen will actually be composites (taking 2 or more photos to create the final image) so any photographer trying to capture those images in 1 shot is likely not working safely, nor has had the correct training. Linked to this is, are they a registered business with insurance? Because then you know that they are taking you and your family seriously, and they are more likely to have systems in place to prevent anything unfortunate from happening.
Portfolio and Style
Review the photographer's portfolio to get a sense of their style and quality of work. Pay attention to the lighting, composition, and overall aesthetics of the images. Consider whether their style aligns with your preferences, as these images will become cherished keepsakes. Firstly you need to consider if you want elaborate set ups with a dozen props and different wraps, a simplistic and pure studio style focussed more on the family connection, or even a lifestyle session in your own home to capture the raw moments as they happen. As each of these require different skills and equipment, so a photographer who specialises in one may not have the knowledge or skills to provide the others. Secondly, look at the way they edit, are the colours bold or muted, is the overall look dark or bright, and do you LOVE their style? Many photographers work for years perfecting their editing style, and asking them to change it just for you is quite rude. It would be like ordering an exquisitely decorated birthday cake from a baker, then when they deliver it saying you actually wanted a roast dinner instead.
Studio or Location
Decide whether you prefer a photographer with a studio or if you'd like them to come to your home for the photoshoot. Both options have their advantages, so consider the convenience, comfort, and ambiance that each setting offers.
Some photographers will bring all their 'studio' equipment to your home so that you can get the polished studio style without having to leave the house. Others will take a more journalistic approach and photograph you and the baby in your home. But are you prepared to clean and tidy before they come? (Or are you laid back enough to not care about the mess that comes with having a toddler, a new baby and no sleep being immortalised in photographs?)
Going to a studio, at least with me, means you get to test run going out with a new baby. Spending a few short hours in a relaxed and calm environment, being looked after before going back home, and no need to clean up any messes.
Also consider the distance either you or the photographer will need to travel, because some photographers will charge a travel fee outside of their town.
Reviews and Recommendations
Gauge the photographer's reputation by reading reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Positive feedback can give you confidence in their professionalism, reliability, and ability to deliver exceptional results. Don't just look at the reviews they have on their website, but take the time to check out their reviews on Google, or comments on their social media, to see what people are really saying about them.
Availability and Scheduling
Newborn photography is time-sensitive, typically done within the first two weeks after birth. Ensure that the photographer you choose has availability within that timeframe, and book early to secure your preferred date and time. If you leave it until after baby has arrived you might get lucky and your chosen photographer has space. Or you might find yourself scrambling around for an alternative who might not be quite the perfect fit you had hoped for.
Communication and Rapport
Effective communication and a positive rapport with your photographer are crucial for a successful photoshoot. They should listen to your ideas, concerns, and preferences, and be responsive to your inquiries. This collaboration will contribute to a more personalized and enjoyable experience. This is quite often the reason why photographers will try to get you on a phone call before your session, it is hard to work with someone you have never spoken with. Also for yourself, it will be harder for you to relax and enjoy the experience with someone you haven't had the chance to talk to, and build a connection with.
Additional Services and Props
Some newborn photographers provide props, such as blankets, hats, and baskets. Some provide add on sessions such as maternity or a babies first year plan. Inquire about these additional services or any other unique offerings they may have to make your photoshoot experience even more memorable.
Contract and Terms
Before booking, carefully read and understand the photographer's contract. Pay attention to the terms and conditions, including any cancellation policies, rescheduling options, or potential additional charges. You want to be fully aware of what is included in the initial payment, the timeframe you can expect to receive your photos in, and how much packages and additional products are.
Pricing and Packages
Consider the photographer's pricing and package options. Evaluate what is included in each package, such as the number of edited photos, prints, albums, or digital files. Choose a package that suits your needs and budget, and ask if they offer payment plans if you fall in love with their work but their packages are a bit outside your budget. The reason I put this one at the end is, you don't want to base your choice purely on price. Photography, for the most part, is something that you definitely get what you pay for.
Who do you want to entrust the safety of your newborn too? Who do you want to trust the creation of priceless memories too?
Booking a newborn photographer is an investment that will capture fleeting moments and create lasting memories. By considering these ten factors – including the photographer's experience, safety training, portfolio, reviews, availability, communication, style, and pricing – you can find the perfect photographer who will deliver stunning photographs while ensuring the safety and comfort of your precious newborn. Don't rush this decision, as it will be a keepsake you'll cherish for a lifetime.