Top Ten Questions to ask before hiring a newborn photographer
How do you know which photographer to choose? Newborn Photography is growing more and more each day, in my area there are hundreds, yes hundreds, of newborn photographers. But every photographer has their ideal client and every client has their ideal photographer. Here are ten questions to ask before hiring a newborn photographer.
Do you have safety training with handling newborns?
Anyone can pick up a camera and take a photo of a newborn and say they are a “newborn photographer”. The main and most important thing is to make sure they know how to properly soothe, pose, and photograph a baby. There are so many things that go into newborn posing, especially putting them into certain positions. Alot of photographer don’t know some photos they see are called “composites” which is usually 2-3 photos put together to make one image by safely keeping a hand on baby at all times(Photo at top of this blog for reference). Be sure your photographer has done in person training with another professional photographer before hiring them.What are your fees? What is included in my session?
There are so many different ways photographers set up their pricing. Do your research, read their websites. Are they in your budget? Are photos included in your session fee? What else is included in the session? A professional photographer with the proper gear and experience can be more than expected.
Do you have a studio?
Are you wanting a studio session or in home lifestyle session? Studio sessions are typically with props and lifestyle is more relaxed poses in the nursery/bedroom.
What is your turnaround time?
Are you needing your photos fast? Are you okay with waiting days, weeks, maybe even months for your photos?
Do you have availability for my due date?
I probably should have put this at number 2 but it’s too late haha. Does the photographer have availability for around your due date? What if they only take a certain number of babies each month. It’s usually best to book a photographer in your second trimester.
Can you show me your portfolio?
This one is super important! Be sure to look at photos the photographer has done before hiring. Be sure it’s the style you are going for, look at several of their galleries.
Is family included in the newborn session?
Are you wanting photos of just baby or baby and family? Is it an extra fee for family? Ask alllll the questions!
Are you licensed and insured?
Especially those with studios what if a child runs into something and breaks an expensive equipment piece? If they have insurance, it is most likely covered!
How long will the session be?
Newborn studio sessions typically take about 2-3 hours. Ask the photographer what their typical timeline is.
Is your studio sanitized daily?
With what’s been going on in the world lately this one is important. Does the photographer wear a mask during the session? How many sessions do they take each day? Are they sanitizing between each session?
There are many more questions to ask but these are some important ones! When messaging a photographer see how their communication is, you should know the entire process before booking. See if they offer a consultation either in person or over the phone, don’t be afraid of asking too many questions either :) Hope this helps<3
