Because I am a newborn photographer, I get a lot of questions from friends and family outside of Santa Clarita on how to choose the right one when they can’t work with me.

 

If you’re a new or expectant mom, you may not know where to start or how to go about picking one. That’s okay — I’m here to help! Check out my tips below to help you make the best descision for your family. 

Style

There are three main styles of newborn & baby photography: posed, lifestyle and documentary. It’s really important that you start by picking which style suits you. It will help you narrow down your options quickly!

 

For example, I am a newborn photographer who specializes in posed portraits. I am the photographer with a studio stuffed with baby wraps, bonnets, headbands and accessories that help to accentuate your baby’s features. My style of work is ALL ABOUT THE BABY. While I have the utmost respect for lifestyle and documentary portraiture (and wow, some of it can be truly breathtaking!), when I look at a baby I just want to see that beautiful baby.

 

While some prefer more of the environment (like the nursery) to be incorporated, my style is for the mamas that want to be in a studio with their newborn up-close and personal. With every detail captured. I have invested a quite a bit of time, money and education to make sure I get you the opportunity to remember exactly the way your baby looks at just a few days old because I know from experience that it changes within weeks. With posed photography, you will also see variations in the amount of props, positions, editing styles and quality imagery from photographer to photographer. Make sure when you are viewing a newborn photographer’s body of work, that you connect with it.

 

No matter what style you love, make sure the photographer matches it. If the photographer has a clear style, I wouldn’t assume that they will change it for your session. Make sure it matches what you want by viewing their portfolio — it’s so important!

 

My style is two things — timeless and fun! I make sure your gallery of images will have both a timeless look and some fun, whimsical looks as well. During our consultation, I will always ask the colors and theme in your home and in the nursery to help with my creativity when personally designing your session.

 

Safety

 

Especially if you are drawn to posed photography, please please please make sure you seek out a photographer will plenty of experience, one that will focus on making your baby’s safety and comfort the TOP priority. Unfortunately, some amateur photographers do not follow or may not even know about basic safety rules when handling newborns. It is well worth the investment of a qualified and certified newborn safety expert.

 

I am one of only two photographers in all of Southern California with two newborn safety certifications. One through AANPS (American Association of Newborn Photography Safety) and APNPI (Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International). I am also a member of the International Newborn Photographers Association.

 

But, one of the most important safety courses a photographer can take is infant CPR. No matter what, it’s important to find a photographer that takes your child’s safety very seriously. If they don’t have the information on their website — just ask!

 

 

 

 

Feeling

Safety and quality imagery are the two most important things in my book. But, it’s also important to gauge how the photos make you feel. It’s often intangible and difficult to describe, but it’s so, so important. Chances are, if you feel emotions when looking at other people’s babies, you are going to feel wayyyy more when it is your own.

 

These photos are going to be in your home forever, so make sure that you’re connecting with the work, even when your baby isn’t in the photos. I recommend scrolling through several photographer’s portfolios (with your partner, if possible) to find one that suits your family best.

Functionality

Before you hire a photographer, this is an important discussion to have with your family. If you are hiring a professional to take these amazing portraits of your newborn, what do you want to do with them? Share them on Facebook? Hang them in your home? Use as a Christmas card? (Hopefully yes, yes and yes!)

 

Here are examples other families I’ve worked with love:

• A set of three framed prints above the baby’s crib
• A big framed print above the couch
• A gallery wall in your hallway / staircase
• An heirloom photo album
• A couple of small prints for the grandparents’ mantelpiece

 

Whatever it is you are looking for, make sure to pick a photographer who offers exactly that.

Investment

There are usually two types of services that photographers offer — IPS (in-person sales) or all-inclusive.

 

With IPS, you pay a smaller session fee for the time and talent of the photographer and then you will go back to the studio for an ordering appointment. There, you will be presented with options to buy printed packages, albums and frames — some of which are marked up higher than they could be. And then you have the option to purchase the digital files on top of the tangible prints.

 

And then there is a service called all-inclusive, which is what I offer. All-inclusive packages mean you get everything included one price up front. There are no sales appointments or sales pitches, you get all. All-inclusive newborn photography sessions include high resolution digital files, print release, access to at-cost professional products and an ordering gallery, plus other fun custom items you can’t get anywhere else.

 

It is very important to read and understand the pricing and packages available before confirming your booking. The investment of a newborn/baby session varies from photographer to photographer.

 

Although cost is an important factor, try not to make it the deciding one. Choose a professional photographer that will provide you with stunning images that you can’t live without, because they are truly priceless. If budget is an issue, I know many newborn photographers (including myself!) offer payment plans.

 

Personality

Finally, if you can, meet the photographer before booking or talk to him or her on the

phone. It’s important to feel comfortable around the person who is going to be meeting your little one. It is always a lot easier to relax around someone you know a little, and the same goes with your partner and children.

 

If timing is an issue, you can get a feel for someone by reading their website (especially the bio) and social media profiles. Do they make you feel comfortable? Do they feel relatable to you and your family?

 

Bottomline — Choosing the perfect newborn photographer isn’t easy. If you’re in Santa Clarita and still need help deciding, just contact me! If I am not the right fit for you, I have no problem recommending a photographer whose style is a better suited for you. I really look forward to hopefully being your perfect match!

 

xoxo — Corinna