Hiring a Newborn Photographer? Here Are the Questions You Need to Ask

newborn

Feb 19

The arrival of a newborn is a special and inspiring time for families. Capturing these precious first moments takes some thought and planning, but I can assure you, these photos are something you and your family will cherish forever. There are things you need to plan prior to the session to make the most of the experience.

Here are a few key points to consider when choosing your newborn photographer to ensure a smooth and enjoyable photoshoot.

Where Do You Offer Newborn Sessions?

Typically photographers either offer in home newborn sessions, in studio newborn sessions, both, and / or fresh 48 sessions. Who knew there were so many options!! So, you’ll want to be sure to ask any photographer you are interested to work with where they offer their newborn photo sessions.

All my lifestyle newborn sessions take place either in your home or in the birth space (for fresh-48 sessions). This is a huge benefit that’s meant to help reduce any stress on your end, this way you don’t have to worry about packing all the necessary things needed for your newborn. And I cannot stress this enough - you don’t need to worry about having every inch of your home clean prior to the session! I typically recommend thinking about the parts of your home you’re wanting the photos to be taken in and I’ll work my magic within those spaces to find the best lighting to capture beautiful images of your family interacting with your newest bundle of joy.

Family stands by window holding newborn baby and toddler

What If My Baby Is Restless Or Won’t Sleep?

This is an excellent question to ask any newborn photographer, and the answer depends on the type of photo session they specialize in. Posed newborn or lifestyle newborn photography.

No need to stress if your baby is restless and refusing sleep during a lifestyle photo session with me. Your baby can feel stress, so try to stay calm and follow the photographer’s lead. You may notice that many photographers will use a warm air machine, wrap your baby, along with playing a sound machine to create a calm environment to help him or her relax. I also recommend keeping an open line of communication with your photographer - you know your baby best, so don’t hesitate to let them know if they need a feeding, diaper change, or even a quick reset. This is very common as newborn babies like to do what newborn babies do. And, I expect to have some awake and some asleep time during all lifestyle newborn sessions.

Can Other Family Members Be Included In The Shoot?

This is a very important question as some photographers specialize in photographing babies alone, and some always incorporate other family members in the session.

If you want to capture the first moments of your newborn with other family members, most photographers (myself included) will allow any other relatives you want to participate in the photo shoot. This is where communication is key between you and your photographer - you want to agree on every detail to ensure the most seamless photoshoot.

young girl holds baby newborn sibling on grey couch

What Education Does The Photographer Have On Newborn Safety?

With your baby’s safety on the forefront of your mind, you want to make sure your photographer also takes precautions to ensure a safe session. I’m trained in newborn photography and am hyper aware of the positions that are safe to hold and position them in. By allowing your photographer to follow your baby’s lead, you’re sure to receive the most authentic photographs that will bring you back to those special first moments with your newborn.

I Don’t Pose Babies At All.. What Does That Mean?

I’m a big believer in ‘baby led’ photography and will follow the cues of your baby during the entire duration of the session. I won’t pose babies in unsafe positions or unrealistic settings.

Whether your baby needs to be fed, burped, walked around, or just cuddled from their parents, I will work the session around those needs. After all, your baby is perfect just the way they are so I want to capture them being themselves.

I’m Ready To Book My Newborn Session, Now What?

Looking to book? I’d love to hear the vision you have for your newborn’s photoshoot. I can help with more specific details, but you can start the process by sending your initial inquiry here .The best age for a session is between 5 and 15 days old, but there is no wrong time to capture these beloved moments with your newborn. We’ll discuss whether you want your session in your home and or at the birth space, and go from there to plan your session.

Slots can fill up months in advance, so reach out to me today to guarantee your session, ask any questions, and make sure you capture these precious moments for years to come!