Why ask questions?
As a newborn photographer, and mother, I understand how important newborn photographs can be. But what's important to know before booking? Yes, understanding prices and fees is important, but what about a photographer's experience or safety precautions? You want to be sure you're booking a photographer you can not only trust but connect with.
Here are a few questions I encourage you to ask from the perspective of both a mother and newborn photographer:
What if baby won't settle down or sleep?
This is more common than you think and it's nothing to stress over. Babies feed off of your energy, so a stressed mama results in a stressed baby. Remember to remain calm and follow the preparation instructions from your photographer. Highly experienced newborn photographers will know how to calm your little one, leaving only a matter of time before your little bundle is fast asleep.
What does your fee include?
I'm sure you've seen, hiring a newborn photographer can be expensive. High quality photographers can be expensive can cost a few hundred bucks, at minimum. Some even charging separately for images after the session fee. Many photographers offer different package types which include different services and products per package. Make sure you clearly understand what you to walk away from the session with.
Do you do natural or posed portraits?
Each photographer's style will be different based on what they prefer. Do your research to be sure the photographer's style aligns with your own. Some photographers will do both natural and posed portraits, while others prefer to stick to one or the other. I prefer posed portraits where baby is posed on a beanbag or prop and is typically wrapped in a blanket. Photographers may prefer natural, or lifestyle, portraits where subjects are more relaxed in their own element and images capture moments between baby and their family. Take into consideration which option you prefer and discuss with potential photographers. This will help eliminate those who don't align with your final vision.
What precautions do you take to keep baby safe and comfortable?
Your number one priority is your baby's safety, so it should also be number priority for your photographer as well. You want to pick a trusted photographer who takes all precautions when photographing your newborn. Precautions to take into consideration are room temperature, weights in the bottom of baskets and bowls, not leaving baby unattended, and avoiding unsafe posing positions, just to name a few.
What should I bring?
I always recommend a change of clothes, since babies can be unpredictably messy. They will most likely be naked for part of their session, which means accidents will occur. If you're traveling greater than 20 minutes for your session, be sure to pack extra feeding supplies (even if breastfeeding) to be sure baby will be satisfied for the full session time. Each photographer will have their own necessity list for you to bring along to your session, don't forget to ask what is important!
How should I prepare?
Communication should be open between you and your photographer for the entirety of your session, all the way from inquiry to receiving your final products. Newborn photographers should provide a preparation guide, which will help you prepare yourself and baby for a smooth session.
What age baby do you prefer to work with?
Each photographer has their own preference when it comes to baby's age. Many photographers, like myself, prefer babies to be under two weeks old for the ever popular curled up poses. Others are more than happy to photograph babies at older ages, though some shots won't be possible.
How long will it take to see my final images?
The turnaround time will vary greatly among photographers, packages, and what you order. I strive to get online galleries to my clients no later than two weeks after their session. Anything longer than that seems like a stretch Make sure your expectations are aligned with the reality of the situation. If you eed to rush your editing timeframe or order, be sure to communicate with you photographer. In addition, be ready to possibly pay extra out of pocket for rush order fees.
Do you offer wardrobe options?
Any social media search will show you how popular props and outfits are for newborn sessions. Not everyone offers this service, however. So be sure to ask! Make sure they have a variety of colors and sizes since babies are born in a variety of sizes.
Same applies for mom, some photographers will have options for mamas. Confirm with your photographer and see if you can try outfits on in advance to be sure you're comfortable.
Can I pay with a credit card?
Payment options will also vary per photographer. Most photographers offer payment plans with credit card or account options. Be sure to ask about late fees, extra charges, and what plans are available. You want to know what you will receive as far as invoices and receipts!
Do you offer prints and wall art?
Some photographers don't want to expand their service into luxury by offering prints or wall art. If you have fallen in love with a photographer who doesn't offer prints, be sure to ask about a print release, which gives you permission to print their work through outside print services. Photographers who offer prints and wall art can guarantee color and material quality, while those who don't cannot.
What is your experience with babies?
Experience is extremely important when choosing a newborn photographer. You want to be sure you're choosing someone who has practice handling such precious cargo. Experienced newborn photographers will have an extensive portfolio, continued training, and a plethora of safety knowledge.
Conclusion
Don't take answers to the above questions lightly. A newborn photographer should be well versed in all aspects of newborn sessions. The most important aspect being safety. You want to be sure your newborn will be comfortable during their newborn sesison.
