I'm really glad
Finding a newborn photographer can be a daunting task. You have so much going on already! That is exactly why it is important to find a newborn photographer BEFORE you bring your sweet baby home.
Tip 1: Start searching early. Most of my parents book by the end of their second trimester, or the beginning of their third. Newborn photographers often book up early, so getting your session secured is imperative to a smooth start. Newborn photos are usually conducted within 7-14 days of life. This means that it can be incredibly difficult to find and book someone who is available after you bring your infant home. Start the process early and avoid the hassle.
Tip 2: Find a newborn photographer that has a style YOU LOVE. Check out their portfolio! Look at their Facebook and Instagram pages. Look at their about me page on their website to see if parts of their personality seem to be a good fit. Not all photographers are a good fit for you, and not all clients are a good fit for every photographer! If you love clean colors, and simple set ups, include that in your google search by entering something like, “timeless newborn photographer + your location”.
Really spend some time getting to know the kind of newborn photos that tug at your heartstrings. Ask yourself WHY you love that style of photography. Is it the connection between the parent holding the baby? Is it the beautiful light and careful composition? Do you prefer very posed or natural images? Whatever it is that draws you in to the photos will help you determine what your personal style is. If you locate a photographer you love and you want to see more, ask to see a full gallery or a blog post to further check out their style.
Tip 3: Safety is key. You guys, I cannot stress this enough. Ask the photographers you are interested in about SAFETY. These babies are your precious gifts, they absolutely should be treated as such. Ask the tough questions, folks. Ask what the photographer washes their swaddles with. Ask if the photographer has insurance. Ask how long they have been working with newborns. Ask how they achieve certain poses that may look complicated. Ask questions, ask questions, ask questions. This is the most important aspect of finding a newborn photographer!
Tip 4: Many newborn photographers offer on site services where the photographer can come to your home for your newborn session. This style of photography is often referred to as, “lifestyle photography”. Lifestyles sessions are sessions that often take place in your home and utilize members of your family (including you!) to create more family centered newborn photos.
Maybe you prefer to only have photos of your newborn. This kind of photography is often referred to as, “studio photography” or “traditional/classic/posed newborn photography”. As a reference point, I offer a blend of both lifestyle and traditional newborn photography. My flow typically includes photos with the family as well as wrapped or swaddled photos of JUST the baby.
Determine which category fits your needs best…or if you’re like me, and love a blend of both!
Tip 5: Ditch Pinterest. Yep. Kick that inspiration board to the curb, friends. Newborn photography depends on the baby. Newborn sessions should be “baby led”. What does this mean? That means if the baby is not happy in a certain pose, or is uncomfortable, under no circumstances should a baby be kept in that pose. Sure, there are some super cute images on Pinterest, but the circumstances of that baby could be wildly different.
Pinterest, although fun, sets unrealistic expectations of what newborn sessions look like for YOU. You and your baby are unique, which is why my newborn sessions are tailed to YOU and YOUR baby. Not to the masses on Pinterest! What works for one baby, may not work for yours. Instead of using Pinterest to inspire you, let your little one inspire you! Go with what your baby loves, and what they naturally gravitate to.
If you have a super snuggly baby, or a baby that loves to be swaddled and held, go with what. I have a whole toolbox of tips and tricks to soothe newborns. Swaddling is typically the first technique I use. It is versatile, looks beautiful on camera, and is a cornerstone of my classic and clean photography style!
If you’re looking for a newborn photographer, and cherish timeless and beautifully composed photography, I would love to talk to you!
Drop me a line at hello@katespitzphotography.com to see if we are a good fit for one another. I would love to get to know you, and chat about what you envision for your unique newborn session.
