Tips for Choosing the Perfect Newborn Photographer

Choosing the right newborn photographer is an important and personal decision. Capturing these fleeting, precious moments of your baby's first days is something you’ll cherish forever, so it’s crucial to work with someone who can bring your vision to life. But beyond just finding a photographer with great photos, there are several factors to consider—ranging from safety protocols to photography style—that will help ensure you make the best choice for your family.

Newborn baby wearing on a diaper sleeps on a bed in Scottsdale home.

1. Safety Protocols

The safety of your newborn should always be the top priority, and this is especially true during a newborn photos. Babies, particularly newborns, have delicate immune systems and are extremely sensitive to their environment. It’s essential to select a photographer who follows strict safety protocols to keep your baby comfortable and secure.

Some questions to ask your potential newborn photographer include:

  • Do they wash their hands upon arrival?
  • Do they wear a mask during the session to minimize germ exposure?
  • Are they attentive to your baby’s cues, stopping a pose if the baby shows any signs of distress?

If the photographer offers posed newborn photography, safety becomes even more critical. Newborns can’t safely support themselves in certain positions, so the photographer needs to either have an assistant or use composite editing techniques to create those images. You should also ask if the photographer has taken newborn safety courses, ensuring they’re well-versed in techniques that avoid compressing the baby’s lungs or other unsafe poses. Ultimately, if at any point during a pose your baby shows discomfort, a responsible photographer will immediately stop the session and prioritize the baby's well-being.

Mom and dad look lovingly down on their newborn while she lies between them on a bed.

2. Photography Style: Lifestyle vs. Posed vs. Hybrid

Another key aspect when choosing a newborn photographer is their style. There are three main types of newborn photography styles: lifestyle, posed, and hybrid. Knowing which one aligns with your vision will help narrow down your search.

  • Lifestyle Newborn Photography is more natural and focuses on candid moments. These sessions often capture the connection between your newborn and the family in a less structured way. There’s little to no posing involved, and the photographer will likely encourage you to interact with your baby, creating authentic, emotion-filled images. Newborns don’t need to be asleep for lifestyle sessions, and if your baby wants to be held the whole time, that’s perfectly fine.
  • Posed Newborn Photography, on the other hand, usually focuses on creating artistic, stylized portraits of your baby alone. These sessions require careful attention to detail and often involve elaborate sets, props, and outfits. The photographer typically works to keep the baby asleep throughout the session, allowing for intricate posing. Sessions like this tend to take longer due to the time spent soothing and positioning the baby, and parents may not be as involved in the photos themselves.
  • Hybrid Newborn Photography blends both styles, offering some posed shots of the newborn along with more candid, lifestyle family images. This is a great option if you like aspects of both styles but want a balanced gallery with fewer props or simpler setups for the posed portion of the shoot.

When reviewing potential photographers, think about which style appeals to you the most. If you’re not sure, take a look at their Instagram, Facebook, or website to see if their portfolio matches the aesthetic you have in mind. The photographer's style will significantly impact the final outcome, so ensure their vision aligns with yours.

Newborn yawns while being held by mom and dad's hands.

3. Editing Style

Beyond the type of photography, consider the photographer’s editing style. Editing can range from light and airy with bright tones to dark and moody with muted colors, or even highly stylized with vintage or modern vibes.

Ask yourself:

  • Do you prefer vibrant or neutral colors?
  • Does the photographer’s style complement your home’s decor or your personal taste?

The editing style is important because it reflects the photographer’s unique creative approach, and if you don’t connect with it, it may not be the right fit for you. Remember, most photographers won’t drastically change their editing style on request, so it’s best to find someone whose work you already love.

Toddler looks at his newborn brother as he sleeps in his crib.

4. Studio vs. In-Home Session

Where you have the photo session is another important factor. Some photographers offer studio sessions, while others specialize in in-home sessions. Both options have their pros and cons, depending on what you feel more comfortable with.

  • Studio Sessions: This setting can offer a more controlled environment, especially for posed newborn photography. In a studio, there are typically more resources, such as props and lighting equipment. Plus, you won’t have to worry about cleaning up your home for the shoot. However, the downside is that you’ll have to get your newborn and all their gear out of the house, which can be stressful in the early days.
  • In-Home Sessions: These sessions offer the comfort of photographing your newborn in the place they will call home. You won’t have to worry about packing up and leaving the house, and the photos will often feel more personal and intimate. However, some parents feel pressure to tidy up before the shoot, which can add stress.
Focus on a newborn's foot as his mom holds him to her chest.

5. Connection with the Photographer

Choosing a newborn photographer isn’t just about their skills with a camera—it’s about finding someone you connect with on a personal level. Every photographer brings their unique personality and philosophy to their sessions, and you want to find someone whose approach resonates with your family.

Think about what matters most to you. Do you want a photographer who emphasizes the emotional bond between parents and baby? Or do you connect more with a photographer who shares a similar view on motherhood and the newborn stage? Reading through a photographer’s bio or checking out their Instagram stories can give you insight into their personality and values, helping you determine if they’re the right fit for you.

6. Deliverables

Finally, think about what you want after the session. Some photographers focus solely on providing digital downloads, leaving it up to you to print or create albums. Others offer custom album creation, prints, and even wall art designed to fit your home. If you know you’re unlikely to print the images yourself, a photographer who provides these services could be a better match for your needs.

Newborn holds her dad's pinky finger in sweet photo session with Lindsay Jane Photography.

Summary

Choosing the right newborn photographer is a deeply personal decision. From safety protocols to style, it’s important to select someone who aligns with your vision and values. Think about how much involvement you want in the session, the environment you prefer, and how you’d like to display your photos. Ultimately, by taking these factors into consideration, you’ll be able to find a photographer who not only captures beautiful images but also creates a meaningful experience for you and your newborn.

If you’re looking for a Scottsdale newborn photographer who prioritizes safety and connection, while capturing timeless, heartfelt images, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help you document these precious early moments of your newborn’s life.

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