All my newborn sessions are ideally done when babies are between 1-3 weeks old. This means you only have a small window to truly capture the “newness” of your baby. Choosing a photographer for this special time is actually such a personal thing to do. You want to make sure that you have an enjoyable experience for both you and the baby.
There are also so many options out there: many talented photographers offer newborn sessions, so it can be quite overwhelming! I know for me personally, I hate having too many options! But there are some simple tools you can use to narrow down your decision. So you can find the perfect photographer for you: someone that you really resonate with!
Get researching
Start looking into photographers at the beginning of your pregnancy. Every photographer’s style will be different, so find someone whose work you really love and could imagine being on your wall at home. Google is a great place to start your search, as often the most experienced photographers appear at the top of your search results. Instagram is also a good resource, often by searching photographer’s hashtags for the area that you are in or by recommendation from other mothers on your feed.
I have a specific style of newborn photography, which is natural, organic and warm with a hint of rustic. I like to use neutral, earthy tones as well as soft colors, which focus on creating simple and natural looking portraits. Other photographers may use more vibrant, bright colors or have fun with lots of props, so it really comes down to your own personal taste.
During your research, try to make sure only to include photographers who are professional in their manner and work. Online testimonials and reviews from past clients are always good to look for, but having a friend or acquaintance tell you their honest real life experience is worth so much more, so ask around!
Ask questions
You want to feel completely confident in your photographer and have all your questions answered before booking in with them. Here are some questions worth asking:
Have you taken any newborn photography workshops or training?
Newborn babies are delicate creatures, and utmost safety must be taken, especially when posing babies to protect their head and neck. So it’s important that they know how to handle babies. Newborn safety and first aid is essential. A photographer who specializes in newborn sessions will be skilled in calming and posing newborn babies. This will be evident in their photos also, so look out for babies who look relaxed and not strained in their photos.
How long will the photoshoot be?
You want to make sure you don’t feel rushed or stressed on the day. All my newborn photography sessions take anywhere from 1-3 hours. This is so we have time built in to feed and soothe the baby (which you will see often takes the most time!) I always give advice on how to make sure the baby is as sleepy as possible for the shoot, and that comes with experience of doing many newborn shoots. Find out everything you can about the session experience, so you know it will be a comfortable one.
Do you offer prints? Albums? Digital images?
This could really tie into your budget, but working with a professional photographer is the perfect opportunity to use their expertise on deciding the best way to display your images. But have in mind what you’d like to use the images for, whether that be for framed prints, printed canvas or to use for baby announcement cards.
You can read some of my commonly asked questions on my newborn page here.
Being a part of the journey from maternity to newborn to their first milestone birthday is why I love my job! Email me at megan@megancurrenphotography.com to schedule your newborn session and feel free to ask me any questions you may have!
