Nothing is cuter than looking at your new baby in your arms. Everything about them is precious: that delightful smile, tiny toes, and those little yawns. Now you wish to document those important little moments and have begun the task of finding the best newborn photographer to capture the early days of your child’s life. You are wondering how do you even start?
You’ve searched the Internet and found untold newborn photographers in your local area, read many reviews, scrolled through Instagram and Pinterest and asked for friend’s recommendations. The mission almost seems impossible!
As a newborn photographer with over 15 years of experience I know how challenging the task can be. I will give you my top tips to help guide you in the right decision of finding the best newborn photographer for your family.
Book Your Shoot While you are Still Pregnant
The first thing on your list should be to book a date with you’re a professional newborn photographer. Booking a photographer of your dreams on short notice can be very challenging. You will free yourself from possible stress in the weeks following the birth of your child if you prepare early.
Do the Shoot within the First 2 Weeks of Life
The best time for a newborn session is during the first two weeks of life. This way, you will have pictures that bring back precious memories that you wish to treasure.
During this period, your baby will still be very tiny, snugging, and bundled up in a blanket. After the first two weeks, the little child will be more alert and sensitive to outside noises. They are easier to wake up and may become irritated with fatigue.
What Type Of Photography Do You Like?
No two photographers are alike. There are two popular styles to select from.
Posed or styled images: The photographer takes the time to create themed settings, which may include wraps and props. These shoots are mostly shot in a studio environment so the photographer can work in a controlled environment and achieve consistent results no matter what time of day it is.
Natural/candid images: The photographer’s approach is more candid and less styled, allowing the shoot to take a natural flow and capture what is happening at that moment sometimes without any posing at all. These shoots can also be achieved in a studio using natural light or in the convenience of your own home.
Pricing And Experience
Photographers will charge according to the years of experience they have in the photography industry usually. At university I was told to be considered a “professional photographer” one would need at least seven years of full time experience to earn the title. Newborn photography is a skill that takes time and patience, just because a person owns an impressive camera does not make them a professional.
Speak First To The Photographer Prior To Your Session
In my opinion the best newborn photographer is one that you easily get along with. Who is very patient, understanding as well as super talented! It is important to feel comfortable around them, as you will be trusting them with your newborn baby and future babies to come.
Looking at photographs of your newborn will be the next delightful thing, and I bet you will have a hard time keeping these to yourself. Fortunately, everyone close to you will want to see these pictures, too.
Feed Your Baby Before You Arrive for Your Session
Another advantage of an early photo shoot is that the infant’s sleeping and eating patterns are predictable. Hence, keep them awake before your appointment and feed them as soon as you arrive in the studio. A content baby with a satisfied tummy and is ready to sleep will ensure a successful newborn session.
If time permits, you can also give little bub a warm and long bath an hour before the schedule. For them, it will be relaxing, which will help soothe them to sleep!
Try to Relax
Once the baby has been fed, dressed, and deep in sleep, try to sit back and relax. Understandably, your mind will be full of thoughts about your priceless, delicate gem that it can be tough to loosen up when it comes to them. However, every professional newborn photographer is trained in every aspect of the art. An experienced artist will never compromise the well-being of your little one. Hence, trust that they will put your darling’s safety at the highest priority.
Babies are unpredictable. You will never know how a newborn photography session will go. However, with eight years of expertise in this craft, I can help you bring out the best and safest experience for your family at my relaxing studio on the Gold Coast. For some inspiration, check out my portfolio for ideas of how incredible your photographs will turn out!
