Where to Get Newborn Photos Taken
Okay, let’s just jump right in on this one – what’s the deal between choosing a specialized newborn photographer versus calling JCPenny/Hollywood Studios and setting up a session. I want to be forthcoming and say this has NOTHING to do with bashing them, or the other commercial companies that offer photo sessions, it’s really not. This post is intended to be informative for families who aren’t sure what the difference is, and want to decide on where to get newborn photos taken! I chose the first few reasons that came to mind for this, and I’m sure there is a ton of other reasons – but for the sake of this post, we’ll keep it simple.
First, and most important, safety – you wouldn’t even believe how controversial this topic is. What I will say, is any licensed, insured, and trained newborn photographer is well aware of the risks associated with poses done in our profession. If you want to read about some of the risks – see my previous blog post. As a parent you are 100% allowed to ask your photographer questions regarding their experience, and training, in their profession. Since I started my business three years ago I have taken several classes regarding the proper way to pose, what to look for with a baby’s positioning, and breathing. I also have a trained assistant on staff to ensure she has eyes and hands on baby at all times. When you’re in my studio, I want you to feel that your baby is in the safest care as possible.
Another sub category to all this, is your baby going to be vaccinated – is it important to you that the photographer is? I’ve had a handful of clients over the years ask me if I’m up to date on my Tdap, and Flu shot. They felt bad for asking but it was important to them – and that’s okay! You should never be afraid to ask someone [who is handling your baby] a question that’s important to you. The answer for me, is yes, I am – because I am handling so many babies I would never want to put them at risk for something I can get a vaccination for.
Another topic that I’m sure a lot of parents don’t think about – hygiene. Your photographer should be able to answer questions without any hesitation – if they don’t, find a new one. Every single thing baby touches – I clean after the session. Backdrops and wraps go in the washing machine directly after. Delicate items like knitted, or felted, that cannot be washed – I use a baby-safe all purpose spray to disinfect the items. Also, if it’s something I can’t throw in the washing machine – I don’t put baby on it without a diaper. I am a super germaphobe – and I practice the same cleanliness for my clients that I would expect for myself.
Next up – photography knowledge. So, you’re hiring someone to take your newborn photos, or any photos for that matter, and you would like to assume that person knows how to operate the camera to achieve the most desired results, right? Most commercial companies pay their associates by the hour to pick up the camera and press the button. Professional newborn photographers are ever so slightly different, and I say that with an immense amount of sarcasm. Along with posing safety, most photographers also invest in lighting + training. There are some newborn photographers that shoot natural light, and that’s not a bad thing – it’s totally personal preference. But, with studio lighting comes the knowledge on how to use it. What do your camera settings need to be? (No, we don’t shoot in auto, we manually adjust each setting on our cameras.) Where does your light need to be placed? (How close or far from the subject, how far forward, do you angle it, etc.) Each photographer has their own style, and we all place our light somewhere a little different, and that’s how we achieve the results we want.
I know that as a parent, you want your baby in the safest care possible. Trust me – I know newborn photography is a luxury that some families cannot afford, I do get that! But, you get what you pay for – if they’re a photographer just starting out, yes they’re going to have low prices – but there’s a reason for that. Do they understand how to properly pose your baby while ensuring they’re not going to get hurt> Sure, they might not have any problems and baby might not get hurt, but what if they do? My biggest advice – save some money each month through your pregnancy, that will ensure you have the funds to book with a reputable photographer. There are plenty of photographers that offer payment plans for their services as well, myself included. Do your research before you book!
If you’re ready to set up your newborn session with us – feel free to take a look at our package list and contact us!
If you’re searching for a photographer within the Phoenix area, please contact me to schedule your session today. All newborn sessions take place at my in-home studio located in North Phoenix (85085). I have a variety of props, all of which are available to use in your session.
photographers: that gorgeous navy knitted wrap + bonnet