Congratulations on your bundle of joy! Bringing a new child into the world is one of the most exciting times in your life! These moments deserve to be commemorated. Whether you’re having your first baby or booking professional newborn portraits for the first time, choosing a newborn photographer that suits your family’s needs can be an overwhelming task. You’ve probably started Googling newborn photographers in your area and found that there are hundreds of options to choose from. They all have different styles, packages, and options. So…how do you choose? Here are a few things that you can factor into your decision making process when it’s time for you to choose a newborn photographer.
Booking in Advance
Welcoming a brand new baby comes with a ton of planning ahead and booking a newborn session is no different. Booking during your second trimester is highly recommended by most photographers. This ensures that they have enough room on their schedules each month. Newborn photographers will likely book a limited amount of due dates each month. As we all know, babies arrive when they’re ready. So photographers limiting the number of sessions per month allows for plenty of wiggly room, if the need arises. Ideally, newborn sessions are scheduled before babies reach 21 days old. Once they start to get a little older, they discover the joys of stretching those limbs and their awake periods grow longer. This means that achieving those nice, curly newborn poses will likely be more difficult. The sooner you get on your chosen photographer’s books, the better!
Style
There are many different styles in the world of newborn photography! As you comb through all of your options, think about what your style is and what you want your images to look like. Are you a fan of the more relaxed, lifestyle images or do you love those adorable newborn poses? What color palette are you drawn to? Neutral colors? Pastels? Rich, bold colors? Do you love fun and elaborate prop setups or more simplistic prop setups? What makes one photographer stand out from the rest? The best way to find a photographer with a style that matches yours is to head to their website. Browse through their portfolio and determine who best suits your style.
Expertise and Education
Searching to find the right photographer is going to take some time. And it can be easy to get lost in the sea of options. The MOST important thing to factor into your decision is your baby’s safety. Your baby will be brand new to this world. They should only be handled by those who are educated and well versed in proper newborn posing techniques and safety measures. The newborn photographer that you choose should be able to clearly explain what you can expect. He or she should also offer tips that promote a smooth, stress-fee session for you and your baby. An experienced, well trained photographer knows that there are a number of components that go into every session. They will be well equipped to tackle every component.
There are so many photographers out there and they all have different levels of experience. So don’t be afraid to ask questions and gain clarity about their experience. You are a potential paying client. And as a paying client, you deserve to know more about who will be handling your bundle of joy. It will bring you greater peace of mind knowing that you choose a newborn photographer who prioritizes your baby’s safety while creating timeless artwork in the process.
What’s Provided?
Every photographer has something unique to offer. Take some time to find out what each of your candidates provide. Some photographers have a full collection of props to choose from and others may only offer a few. They may have a client closet jam packed with those adorable newborn outfits, hats, and accessories or it may be up to you. Maybe even some wardrobe options for the rest of the family! Are hair and makeup services available for parents prior to their time in front of the camera? Ask questions and find out just how much your photographer will handle for you.
Investment
As with any other profession, prices will differ from photographer to photographer. But please do not let price be the only deciding factor when selecting a newborn photographer. If you find yourself shopping based on price point alone, it will reflect in your overall experience. Every photographer that you inquire with will offer a unique experience. And the ones that are properly educated, experienced, and safety trained will cost more. Be sure to find out all that you can about the level of service that they provide. Will you only receive digital images after your session? What does each session include? Are they a mobile newborn photographer? Do they offer artwork? Take the time to educate yourself on the variety of photography services, products, and experiences available to you.
Weigh Your Options.
You’ve done all of your research. You’ve narrowed down your favorites. Now it’s time to decide who you want to book. Take a look over all of the information that you’ve gathered. Consider who provides the level of service and experience that you wish to receive.
Choosing your photographer may be difficult. But just remember that your baby will only be little for a little while. These moments and tiny details will pass you by in the blink of an eye. Now is the perfect time to figure out what you desire and find the right photographer for you and your family.
Now Booking Into 2022
If you are currently in the market for a Charleston newborn photographer, I would love to chat with you! Feel feel to contact me today with any questions you may have.
[…] to look beyond the beautiful images that you see. There are a number of questions to ask when choosing a newborn photographer. The safety measures your desired photographer has in place should be at the top of the list. I […]