Finding the RIGHT Newborn Photographer is an important and personal decision.
You should carefully consider your options and ask the following questions:
1. What is your style? Posed or more Lifestyle?
Each photographer has their own style so it’s important that you research and look at their portfolio in advance to make sure this particular style is in line with your expectations. Natural portraits tend to have a realistic side to them, a “lifestyle” look if you will. These sessions are done in a little bit more relaxed and natural feel with the posing that captures some moments of the baby and new family in their own way. “Posed” newborn photos are typically done in a studio, use a beanbag and props for posing the baby and feature a variety of blankets, hats, headbands, wraps, etc. Typically, most of the photos will be of the baby posed alone. I focus on a more natural and authentic approach to all my photography work, not only newborns. Consider which style you like best and ask your potential photographer if they share your vision.
2. Will our family be included in some of the photos?
It depends on the style you are going for, but in my opinion, you should always get some images that show the parents with the newborn as well as sibling photos.
3. Do you have many repeat clients?
This is a great test of not only the quality of a photographer’s work but of their customer service too. You can also check the google reviews that the photographer has. If people use a lot of words and you can feel their excitement, chances are they had a great time during their photo shoot.
4. What is your policy on rescheduling a session?
An experienced photographer will definitely have a policy in place when it comes to a customer canceling or rescheduling a photography session. A photographer with policies indicates that they have experience with different types of customers and situations and have created policies accordingly.
5. Have you had any experience with…(name your specific concern)?
If you have any specific concerns regarding your photo session such as the photographer’s ability to work with a special needs child for example, find out if they have ever handled that type of situation before. Do not dismiss a photographer and their abilities based on their answers to your concerns. If given adequate notice, an experienced photographer should be able to deal with any situation you present them.
6. What if my toddler does not behave during the photo shoot?
One of the biggest fears of young parents is when their siblings act out and don’t behave. An experienced photographer keeps calm and makes the best out of the situation. As we all know if we force a toddler to do anything they will for sure do the opposite…
7. How much do you charge?
If your photographer charges anything less than $500 for the whole session including all the digital files it may be possible, they don’t pay taxes, are not insured or registered, and don’t take their business all too seriously. Running a business is expensive and it is your responsibility to pay them accordingly. Support small businesses in paying fair fees.
8. How can I pay for the photoshoot?
Paypal, Zelle, and Cash apps were designed for private use and should not be offered for business transactions. If your photographer is a registered business they use a credit card processing provider that can send you invoices or lets you pay online way before you have your photo shoot so you don’t have to think about it anymore.
Have you recently hired a Newborn Photographer? What questions did you ask? Let us know in the comments below!
For tips on photography at home, check out this post from Atlanta Mom.
