When searching for a newborn photographer it is important to consider the style of image that you are after. You may like the look of a studio portrait or prefer a natural lifestyle photographer.
When I work with newborns and parents I like to work in a controlled environment. I’ve included some of my top tips and ideas below:
Timing
It’s important to consider the timing of your newborn photography session. Most newborn photographers will recommend the first two weeks as in most instances this is when your baby is sleepiest and easier to pose. My window for newborn photography is much larger. I recommend sometime between two – four weeks but I do prefer around the two – three week window when possible.
However my main consideration is always what is best for the baby and for the parents. If for any reason the newborn photography session takes place at five or even six weeks. The results will be just as beautiful. In fact I have photographed 6 week old who have been easier to pose and work with then some of my two week olds.
With all newborns it always depends on the day and no two days are ever the same. Through my years of experience I have learnt to adapt and work with newborns on the day to make the most out of the session however they are at that moment.
For this reason I have always only booked one photoshoot per day for newborns. I allow up to three hours and as these sessions require dedication and focus I like to make that the only photoshoot of my day.
Booking is recommended as soon as possible after your 20 week scan, however I do sometimes have last minute availability. I am always happy for you to check to see if there are last minute spaces.
Environment
Newborns are sensitive to their surroundings and it’s important to consider this when booking your session. I like to travel with my portable newborn photography studio to my Client’s homes. This ensures minimum disruption to their newborns routine and to the mothers recovery.
I have worked like this for many years and the format was first developed when I became a mother myself. I realised quickly how much I had to adjust to and how I didn’t feel ready to leave the home in those early weeks.
I take my full studio to my Client’s home, including newborn outfits, backdrops, lighting and accessories. All to ensure that they can enjoy their newborn photoshoot in comfort.
Before each session I will provide tips on how to prepare the space so that everything is ready before I arrive.
This includes advise on the temperature of the room for the comfort and safety of their newborn.
Style
Consider the style of photography that you would like and ensure you choose the best photographer for you and your family. I always talk to my Client’s before each session to find out exactly what they are looking for.
Making sure that I am the right photographer for them and that they are happy with the look of the portraits we will work to achieve.
A good way to explore a photographers style is to view their portfolio and instagram pages.
My style has developed from years of working in black & white photography. I like to create high contrast images with a timeless feel. I also love to work in colour and mix the two mediums together. Creating a dynamic gallery of newborn photography for my Client’s. With a wide selection of images that compliment each other in style. Ensuring both the colour and black & white images would sit equally well together in an album or frame of their choice.
When taking portraits I lam always trying to encourage natural expressions. I like to talk a lot and to help everyone feel at ease throughout their photoshoot. I also find that my Client’s relax a lot more in their own homes, allowing them to open up for natural portraits.
Parent Portraits
I’ve lost count of the times I have arrived for a newborn session and the parents have told me that they don’t want to take part as they don’t feel camera ready.
I always try to encourage at least a few family and parent portraits. It’s important to remember that these photographs are a valuable record for your new baby. They won’t only want to see beautiful pictures of themselves but they will love and cherish the ones with their Mum & Dad more than anything else in the world.
I often point out that they will not be looking at the things you are critical of. It’s an important lesson in being in the moment and creating something to cherish. This moment in time is all too fleeting and recording it i so important.
Portraits with parents are also a wonderful way to create a variety of images during your photoshoot.
Have a look through more moments in my family gallery
Detail
Create some images that focus on the detail. I do this with every session I do and one shot I love to create is this one with the babies tiny feet cupped in Mum & Dads hands.
It’s these gorgeous details that we will treasure always.
There are many ways to capture details and I like to chat through what my Client’s would most like to capture before our session. Where possible I will mood board some ideas before each photoshoot so that I am prepared with a list of shots the family would like me to create for them.
Some will be possible, others will happen organically and some will be completely unexpected!
If you are a photographer play around with some ideas and set ups to create your own style for these beautiful detail shots.
For more details
If you would like to book your newborn photography session with me I would love to hear from you. Please contact me via my contact page or message me on WhatsApp.
I hope you found these tips helpful for choosing your newborn photographer and for working with newborns.
