How to Choose a Newborn Photographer
Congratulations! Expecting a new baby is such an exciting time! Pregnant mommas have so much to prepare for and so many questions! Choosing a newborn photographer is an important decision, and it can be a tough one when it comes to style and investment. Newborn photos are something you have a very small window to get, so you want to book in advance. Like a wedding, these are glimpses in time from a moment you will always want to remember, and you will cherish them for the rest of your life. I’ve written this guide in hopes of helping you choose the right photographer for you.
So, what do you look for in a photographer?
Specialization
Photographers specialize in specific areas for a reason. You wouldn’t take your baby to a surgeon to have her ears checked. It’s the same thing for photographers. Just because your wedding photographer or family photographer takes amazing group photos doesn’t mean that the same would be true for your newborns, even if they have photographed a couple. The lenses are different, the gear is different, and most importantly the subject is different! Experienced nNewborn photographers know how to pose and handle a newborn baby. They know how soothe and comfort, and h0w to set up and control the perfect environment. They know how to read your baby’s cues and will respect your babies unique temperament and personality. They will be able to tell what poses a specific baby is comfortable in. These things are very important for a happy baby and successful photoshoot.
Style
Every photographer has a specific style, and that specific style is what appeals to a client. When you are searching for photographers, spend some time going through their galleries. Do the photos make you swoon and sigh? These photos should speak to your heart and soul. Imagine your sweet baby in them. Are they what you want to look back at 20 years from? Will they bring you back to that moment when your baby was brand new? Remind you of the that sweet baby smell, the feel of their soft hair, and the sight of their tiny little toes. Will they fill you will that emotion you felt the first time you held your baby tight at your breast and hummed a sweet lullaby? Or will you just look at a huge hot pink headband and wonder why you decided to put a flower on your baby’s head that is almost as big and she is? The focus should be your baby, and photos should be timeless. These photos should be treasured forever, and that is what makes your investment worth it.
Safety
Safety is probably not something that first comes to mind when you are looking for a newborn photographer, but it is so important. Choose someone who is trained in newborn posing. The photographer is going to be holding, posing, and soothing your brand new baby, you’re very special little person. You want to make sure that you feel comfortable and that your baby is safe. There are a lot of cute photos of babies floating around the internet, and there are ways to do them safely that involve compositing multiple photos together. An experiences newborn photographer should know how to do this, while someone just starting out may not. Your newborn photographer should keep safety in mind at all times. It is never worth putting a baby in danger just to get a shot.
Investment
Most new moms tend to like groupons. I know I do! Is it a good idea to try and find a deal from a photographer? In most cases, no… Everyone, understandably has a budget, but “you get what you pay for,” and that is very true when it comes to photography. Don’t let it be the first thing you look for… it should be the final consideration after you have looked at the a photographers work, considered the above aspects, and found one that calls to you. You are paying for training, expertise, and assurance that the photographer you choose will provide you with precious photos you will cherish for a lifetime.
So how can I save? There are a lot of ways to save up for your newborn photos. Some photographers may have payment plans or bill through paypal which offers 6 months of no interest for qualified customers. Some may also offer registry options so your shower guests can help you with your purchase.
I may or may not be the perfect photographer for you, but hopefully this information will help pair you with the one that is 🙂 To see more of my work, visit my page at www.farrahwelchphotography.com