
So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and book a photographer to come and record your gorgeous bundle’s first few days on earth – here are a few hints and tips about what you can expect, what you’ll need to do to prepare and how to get the best out of the session.
Selecting the perfect newborn photographer for you
Making the right choice of photographer can mean the difference between amazing photos to treasure forever, and images that you’re not quite happy with.
The best thing to do is shop around and only select the newborn photographer whose images you find the most appealing. It’s no good going for a minimal style if you’re after frills and flowers.
All the best photographers will be happy to show you their past work to help you come to the right decision.
Consider whether you’re happy for a photographer to come to your own home, where you’ll have everything you need for the baby right at hand, or whether you’d like to leave the house and travel to a studio to have the photographs taken.
The advantages of hiring an independent photographer
There are many advantages of booking an independent newborn photographer (ahem, me!) as opposed to a large chain organisation.
Firstly, your photoshoot will be custom designed around your baby, and around your own wishes. I will work with you to discuss the style of shoot you’d like, the kind of props you’d like to use and even help you decide on outfits for your precious little one.
Secondly, I’ll spend hours over your shoot. Not only taking the photographs, but editing them to perfection afterwards – that just wouldn’t happen with a large chain, nameless photographer.Preparing for your newborn photography shoot
Once there’s a date in the diary, there are a few things you can do to prepare for my arrival.
During your newborn photography session
I have a practiced routine for my newborn shoots, which usually start with some portraits on a beanbag. However, if your little bundle is too awake, plan B kicks in – snuggly basket shots.
I start with the shots that you’re most keen to capture, then work backwards for as long as your little one will allow. Ideally, we will get through at least four set ups.
As a highly trained newborn photographer, you’ll find I’m really persistent if your little one decides not to play ball. I’ve been called the baby whisperer for my ability to soothe newborns and achieve the shots we’re hoping for, but I generally try each shot three times before calling time.
Finally, I will ask you to sign a consent form – this is to
enable me to use some of your images to promote my business. If you agree, you
will always see the images before I use them and I never use the name of your
child.
After your session
Now it’s time to sit back, relax and await a sneak peek of your images.
I generally allow around a week for the edited images to be ready for viewing but try to get a little sample to you straight away.
Once they’re edited to perfection, I’ll either email low resolution images to you or upload them to a secure online gallery – now is the time for you to make decisions about which images you’ll like in your package. I individually number each image so there will be no miscommunication about which images you’ve chosen.
So, don’t forget…
And that’s it!
I can’t wait to meet you and your little one for your newborn photography shoot.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Tina x