Finding a newborn photographer is such an exciting adventure! But I can totally understand how daunting and stressful it can also be. Here are some great questions you should ask the photographers you inquire with!

1. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PHOTOGRAPHING NEWBORNS?

As a new parent, you want to know that your photographer has the experience and comfort with handling newborns. The key bit of information here is how long they have been working specifically on babies- this will help ensure confidence in handing over your precious little one for shooting sessions!

My Answer: I have been a photographer for over 10 years, with 6 of those years also dedicated to photographing children and babies! As a professional photographer, I know that there are certain portraits that demand finesse and patience. Newborns pose this requirement especially well due to their small size; it takes special care just like anything else worth doing requires some love! And how happy my clients always seem when they view the pictures after one of these sessions has been completed makes me want even more opportunities for new experiences with young ones in front lens-range (or closer).

2. WHAT TYPE OF NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY DO YOU OFFER?

There are two different types of newborn photography. Posed and Lifestyle. The easiest way to describe the difference is to think of “baby in a basket vs baby in a crib”.

My Answer: I offer Lifestyle Newborn Photography. Whether it takes place in your home or in my studio. My photography while it focuses on the baby, it highlights the family as a whole!

Here are some more blogs to help.

3. DO YOU HAVE A STUDIO? WHERE IS IT?

It is nice to know what you can anticipate when travelling to the studio, if you are expected to host the photoshoot at your home, if only outdoor options are available, and whether appointments must be booked on certain days or at specific times. In addition to your consultation call, don’t be afraid to ask for a studio tour prior to your session; most full-service photographers are more than happy to meet you beforehand.

My Answer: YES! In December 2021 I opened my first studio, located in Downtown New Philadelphia, Ohio!

4. WHAT KIND OF PROPS DO YOU USE? DO I NEED TO SUPPLY THEM?

It is important for you to ask what all props the photographer provides, and how the photographer will help you prepare to achieve the newborn session of your dream! Will your photographer provide blankets, little outfits or headbands, etc, You will need to know if you need to buy special items in advance.

My Answer: I run a full-service studio but I also provide these same items for all my in-home sessions! I have a stocked client closet with clothing available for everyone in our session (I also do custom styling). Heck, I’ve even got spare newborn diapers if you run out! If you want to incorporate a family heirloom, we can absolutely include it in your portraits, but there is no need to go out and buy any outfits or props for the session.

5. ARE SIBLING AND FAMILY IMAGES INCLUDED? WHAT ABOUT GRANDPARENTS?

Do you want to make sure that you can include other family members such as siblings. Some have different session types for just baby.

My Answer: Absolutely YES! I have no upcharges to include siblings or even grandparents!! And I might be one of the only newborn photographers in the New Philadelphia area that offers this!

6. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BOOK? WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO DO THE SESSION?

The best time to book is before baby arrives so that everything is taken care of before the chaos of parenthood arrives, but last-minute bookings can absolutely happen if the photographer has availability.

My Answer: The best time to do the session if you want the squishy naked poses is in the first 10 days after birth! HOWEVER with lifestyle photography we do have a little more wiggle room.

7. WHAT ART PRODUCTS DO YOU OFFER? PRINTED? DIGITAL? BOTH?

When choosing a photographer, don't just go with the first one who offers you their services. Make sure they have products available that match your needs and preferences before making an appointment or booking future sessions- this way there won’t be any disappointed customers!

My Answer: I provide a certain number of digitals with each collection, which allows clients to print independently of me! But I have an amazing printer that is linked to all my online galleries. There are so many options: canvas and framed portraits for the walls, photo albums and photo boxes, art prints to display as-is, decor items like cubes and accordion books, and so much more!

8. WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE BOOKING FEE? HOW MUCH CAN I BE EXPECTED TO SPEND IF I WANT?

The amount of your photography session will depend on a number factors, but it's important to know what you can expect before committing. Most professional photographers charge an initial fee and offer art products for purchase separately; some only provide digital files without any printing options while others may additionally require additional fees like rescheduling fees?

My Answer: Please visit the pricing page for more information and we can schedule a phone consultation to go over specifics.

9. DO I GET TO CHOOSE THE FINAL IMAGES? IF SO, HOW?

One of the most important decisions you will make when hiring a photographer is what images they should take. Some photographers offer online galleries so that clients can choose their favorite shots, but many full-service studios have an ordering appointment during which printed proofs are given to help sort through piles and decide on artwork for purchase; this way it's easier than trying do research online before visiting them in person!

My Answer: I provide an online gallery of all the best images edited! Color and in Black & White. I am here for you to help you obtain any products and prints that will best serve your needs, however, I never require clients to buy anything from me.

10. HOW LONG UNTIL I CAN SEE THE PHOTOS?

You're excited to see your images! If you have a deadline, we'll make sure the turnaround time for digital photos and/or prints arrives at just right.

My Answer: For my sessions depending on the season turnaround time is 2-4 weeks. When you book your session and day of your session I will let you know that to expect. I do ALWAYS provide a private sneak peak at what I am working on.

11. ARE YOU INSURED? ARE YOU A REGISTERED TAX-PAYING BUSINESS? WILL THERE BE A CONTRACT?

While having insurance and being a tax pyyer does not affect the quality of the photography or the products, it does say a lot about the way a business is run. Being insured is vital to the protection of both the client and the business. Being registered means they are held accountable to the laws and regulations set in place. If the answer is no, walk away.

My Answer: YES. 100%.