5 qualities to look for in a newborn photographer
ONE| SAFETY
Making sure your little one is safe should always, ALWAYS, always be number ONE priority!
An educated photographer will know how to safely pose and be mindful of what your baby is capable of doing. A baby should never be forced into a position they are not happy with. An educated, experienced photographer will know the difference between an annoyed cry (b/c we are moving them and they just want to stay in one spot, undisturbed) or a pained cry where they are uncomfortable (and you need to stop, reposition, or not proceed).
{It’s me. I’m the educated and experienced photographer.}
I never promise any pose to my clients, BABY IS BOSS, and if baby doesn’t want to do it, we don’t do it!
TWO| EXPERIENCE
How much training, practice, knowledge does your photographer have? Don’t fall for anyone who says they are certified (unless it’s for CPR). There aren’t certified courses we can take, and there isn’t a photography police who checks up on us. So it is up to each individual photographer to learn these skills on their own. Some workshops are better then others, and some people understand how a newborn’s tiny body is shaped and how it moves and how they can be handled.
With more than 12 years experience, I have found that babies are most cooperative in the mornings. Check out my blog post 5 ways to a smooth newborn session for more tips!
THREE| EDUCATION
Education falls in step with the safety and experience since there is no mandatory education for photographers. It is important photographers take the steps for ourselves to learn how to handle our tiny clients and create a safe environment for everyone. A knowledgeable photographer will have the skills and tricks to safely achieve the final desired image.
FOUR| STYLING
Look at the photographer’s portfolio. Do you like the “feel” of their images? The colors, the materials, the angles, the details? Don’t hire a photographer who shoots dark and moody if you like the light and airy feel. If you prefer lots or props and décor, don’t hire a photographer who prefers a clean, simple set up.
I am more of a purist. My philosophy is that the subject (i.e. baby, family, child, senior, etc) is the FOCUS of the images. I don’t want them lost among all the props and extra flare. To me the session is all about them and I don’t want the distractions to take away from that.
FIVE| “JIVING”
Do you jive with the photographer? Do you feel comfortable with them? Do you like what they have to offer? Do they get you? Are they listening? Having a good relationship with your photographer is important! This person is capturing some of your life’s most important moments, make sure you are comfortable!
During a newborn session it is imperative that mom and baby are comfortable (and significant other too!) That’s why I have all kinds of amenities to help you relax. From snacks and drinks, to diapers, wipes, breast pads etc! Your comfort is important!
My goal is have you leaving your session feeling like family (because that is how I see you). Be yourselves, be comfortable, no stress, no worries! You are in good hands!