How to pick a newborn photographer?
When considering a newborn photographer, think about what style of photography you like… Is it posed in gorgeous props using soft fabrics or wool. Or do you prefer more lifestyle photography? My style is all about timeless colours and styles, I don’t usually do props that are quirky I love my work to be displayed for years to come so I like to keep it simple and neutral. I love working with lace and creams with textures and wooden props. Does this sound like the kind of style you like? Think about what the style of your house is? do you love neutral colours? would my work suit the styling in your house?
When to book in your newborn session?
It is best to book while you are still pregnant to guarantee a session with me. While you are at it why not book in an in studio Maternity session as well 🙂 I only take on a limited number of newborn photo sessions per week to allow for babies that arrive early and some arrive late, I also like to give a more personalised session so my attention is just on you and your new baby. If you like my style of photography, book it in as early as possible.
When to book a maternity session?
I recommend anywhere between 30-36 weeks. Of course every situation is different and every pregnancy is different, we can work together on when is the best time. I wouldn’t recommend leaving it too late as with some of the poses I do you will want to be comfortable and not feel like you just can’t cope. You may feel self conscious about your body but I can help you feel beautiful.
What to wear to a maternity session?
I have a few maternity gowns available, If you check out my gallery you can see what some are on offer, if there are any dresses I haven’t used yet I will show you what I have and we can work together. If you have a dress that you think is beautiful and you feel beautiful in it, feel free to email me photos and we can discuss it further, It’s best to avoid bold patterns and distracting logos.
What age is it best to photograph newborns?
Newborn photo sessions are recommended for babies under 14 days of age. This is because babies are sleepiest, and easiest to settle during this time. I have however photographed babies up to 4 weeks old. These babies take longer to settle and the sessions take a lot longer but I always like to try my best to capture these ages as sometimes people don’t book until baby is already here and have had complications at birth and simply can’t get it done before the 14 days. I always send my clients a preparation guide to help get baby ready for their session and if baby is a little bit older then following this guide will help a lot for the session to go quicker.
How long is turn around for my images?
2-3 weeks then an additional 2 weeks to arrange and package products.
Payment
A non-refundable retainer is required to secure your booking and the remaining balance is payable before or at the session.
Payment in installments:
I am happy to work on a payment plan with you, I understand that this service is a luxury item and some times it takes a while to pay off. Products will be held by me until payment is completed.
What to Wear and Bring?
For Mum & Dad
Mum & Dad you are a big part of the show. Photographing the connection between you and your baby is one of my all time favourite things. Just as they encourage in the hospital, skin to skin contact creates the most beautiful images.
Dads: if you prefer not to be shirtless I ask that you bring a tight fitting v-neck t-shirt to wear with a good, snug pair of jeans.
Mums: A loose-fitting tank top. Keep the colour neutral and design simple. Be sure that you have no nail polish as your hands will make their way into the images. Also, rest assured, I aim to photograph using flattering angles and light to bring out the natural beauty in your family.
It will seem hot for us as adults but I regulate the temperature to keep your naked baby happy. So bring a change of clothes in case you get pooped on or get too hot in the studio.
Safety and Hygiene:
Your baby’s safety is so important to me. I will never place your baby in an unsafe or uncomfortable pose. When needed I ask that a parent or assistant is beside the baby on some props. After each session I wash fabrics and props used regardless of if they poo or wee on anything so please don’t feel upset if your baby does poo or wee on anything. They won’t be creating any more work then what I will already be doing 🙂 I always wash my hands and keep my nails short to avoid contamination and I use hand sanitiser throughout the session.
Can I purchase all of the images taken?
I do not sell or provide RAW files or unedited images as part of my services. Being a professional photographer, one part of the service is the artistic vision, use of fabrics and textures and editing style. I spend between 5-6 hours editing each session, adding my artistic style to the photos (which is one of the reasons you chose me, you may not see it but once I have edited you will know the difference). Your files will be available in both high and low resolution as well as your birth announcement digital file. No images are purchased unedited.
Where to Print:
All of my printed products are printed on the highest quality of professional paper at a professional printing lab. My screens are calibrated for the lab I use. If you are taking your USB to other printing companies the colours may be ‘off’ so I will give some suggestions on where to print, just ask 🙂
Why do newborn photographers charge what they charge?
Professional newborn photographers are trained in safe practices and the handling of new babies which is an additional skill in itself. Please make this an important factor before deciding on your newborn photographer. If you find you are feeling uneasy about someones practices please speak up. This industry can be unregulated and if your photographer has done the right thing by attending workshops and using safe work practices you know that your baby is safe and in good hands. If you admire my style of photography pricing should not be the primary consideration to book your session.
There are many costs with running a photographic business including:
- high cost of advertising,
- purchasing and maintaining professional camera equipment
- computer software for editing,
- props and materials,
- insurances,
- the time it takes to photograph, edit and organise delivery of finished work,
- training/workshops that is ongoing
- time it takes to clean a studio/home studio and props used after each session.
- utilities ie running heating during baby sessions etc.
So please take all of this into consideration when booking a professional, Yes we love what we do but it takes a lot to run a business and it’s not just about clicking a camera. Feel free to watch me during the session. All of my clients walk out and say ‘wow there was so much more to it then I expected’ That’s because I have taken the time to learn how to do it professionally and safely.
If you have any questions, please drop me a line via the contact form. You can return to the home page to see all on offer.