Finding a Newborn Photographer

I remember when I first saw those little pink lines on that test, I was through the roof in disbelief! You start thinking of all the things that you need to get prepared, and you agonize over names, carseats, cribs and the size of your little one at any given week. After a few weeks I starting thinking about my newborn photos. At the time I was not a newborn photographer, and I didn’t know much about it ! I did know that I wanted a newborn photographer near me, I didn’t want to travel too far with my newborn. I wanted a newborn photographer, who I trusted, someone friendly, educated and of course with a beautiful portfolio!

When you first start researching your local newborn photographers, its easy to become overwhelmed with the amount people there are available for hire. It’s important to do proper research to make sure your little one is in safe hands, and to make sure you will get the quality newborn images you are dreaming of. A great place to start is local Facebook groups, mom groups, play groups, family and friends! Start asking friends about who they used to photograph their children, and what their experience was like. People are always excited to share images of their adorable new little ones, and would likely be happy to share their gallery from their newborns portrait session. Asking others about their newborn photo experience is a great way to get a behind the scenes view of how photographers conduct their sessions, what their customer service is like, and how a whole gallery looks when it is complete.

Do a consultation by phone or in person! Getting to speak to someone directly whether it is virtually or in person, gives you an immediate idea of whether or not you will feel comfortable working with this person, and if your personalities are a match. I know this seems like a weird piece that you might not think about, but it definitely will affect the session. Assuming you already know the photographers location, and style, here are some questions you could ask your potential newborn photographer;

  1. How long have you been a newborn photographer and why did you become one?
  2. Do you have a studio?
  3. What type of lighting do you use?
  4. What if my baby cries, are you comfortable soothing a crying baby?
  5. What types of safety measures do you have in place?
  6. What props do you have for use?
  7. Do you know how to wrap babies in different styles?
  8. What is your typical session workflow?
  9. What is included in my session?
  10. Do you have kids of your own?

These types of questions are a great way to learn important pieces about your photographer, and give them a chance to share their experience, and how they work. I always would want to start with how much experience the photographer has. Now this question doesnt need to make or break your hire if you have a newer photographer! Individuals who are passionate can become extremely skilled in a short amount of time, and create equally as stunning images as someone who has been in the game for ten years. I think that’s why the second portion about WHY they became one, should tell you more about this persons level of care and attention to their craft.

Asking about the location of the session is important. Do you want a home session? do you prefer a studio session? It important to understand that different homes has different kinds of light. If you opt for a photographer who will come to your home, ask them about what type of light they will be using. Studios are normally a very controlled light setting to create the clearest best quality colour in an image, your home does not have controlled light in the same way and may affect the quality and style of your images.

The answers to these questions will give you a great indication if they are a good fit or not. Chatting 1/1 with a couple skilled local photographers will help you make your final decision.You feel feel comfortable and confident in the answer that is given for each question. Professionals will be happy to cover any concerns you may have heading into your appointment.

Hayley