Newborn Photography FAQs – Dallas Newborn Photographer – CLJ Photography
I work with a LOT of first time mothers. Many don’t know what to ask their photographer or what they are looking for. Many don’t know what to expect. Newborn photography is VERY different than most other genres.
I do recommend getting a list of what is important to you before you begin looking. There are a lot of talented photographers available but we all offer something different. There are hobbyists, “mom-togs”, part-timers, full-timers, professionals, amateurs, etc. My studio offers a line of products, others offer digitals only. Some photographers offer hundreds of images, I offer only the very best.
I am a Qualified Newborn Photographer through APNPI – Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International. I have submitted images for judging, gone through safety courses and completed tests on newborn photography. Although this certification is not required because there is currently no safety regulations in the industry.
APNPI has a wonderful resource for parents on choosing your newborn photographer – For Parents.
I wanted to put together a list of questions I get asked a lot and hopefully help new parents to find the right photographer at the right time.
When is the best time to find a newborn photographer?
Really, as early as possible. But sometime in your second trimester is ideal. There is time to shop around, view portfolios and meet with the studios that prefer face to face consultations.
How can I book a photographer when I don’t know when baby will arrive?
Most photographers that specialize understand the exact date of your photo shoot will be set AFTER baby is born. I use my client’s due date as a tentative timeline and we schedule 7-10 days after birth.
How long do newborn sessions last?
Most of my sessions are 2-3 hours in length. But I do not put a time limit on them. Babies are on their own timeline. Some photographers put a time limit on their sessions.
Do I need to bring anything?
No. Not unless you have something special you want to include. I provide everything! Some photographers don’t have a large prop closet though so it is best to talk to your photographer about what you want before your shoot so both of you can prepare for the images you want.
Can I do sibling images too? And parent images?
Of course! We are creating images for you! I want you to include the people you love most and there is no extra charge to do so. Some photographers might charge extra for more people included – ask ahead of time.
How much editing will be done on the images?
Some people may not think about this but it is really an important question to ask! Newborn baby skin is flaky, magenta and yellow. They can have red marks and all sorts of skin issues. I remove all skin blemishes on you and your little one. I HIGHLY edit your images – although hopefully – expertly enough so that you only see your perfect little baby. Some photographers may not know how to tackle these difficult issues.
Where does the session take place?
This is also a big one! My home has a dedicated studio space. 95% of my newborn sessions are in my studio. But there are situations where I travel to clients – mostly when there are medical reasons. But I offer travel for clients outside the DFW area and throughout the United States. Many photographers might not have a dedicated space or may need to travel to your home.
In-home photography can feel convenient but often there are unknown issues with going to your home. I offer posed, studio imagery and this can be tougher in an unknown environment where I can’t control the light touching my subjects. After baby arrives, life can also get crazy and your home may feel like a chaotic environment to bring a photographer into. And last, I have a LARGE collection of newborn props, backdrops, bonnets, blankets, rompers, headbands – you name it. In-home sessions definitely limits what I can bring along and I don’t have the ability to switch directions if baby needs me to.
I hope you found this blog helpful! Let me know if I missed a question!
Seriously…post your questions below if you have any for me!
I would love to chat about scheduling your baby’s first professional photo shoot. Click the contact button below to schedule a visit to our studio! Don’t wait!