I often get the question, “when should I book my newborn photos?” from expecting mommas. Understandably, when that test says positive, your to-do list gets long, very quickly! I find that it is best to book newborn portraits at the beginning of your second trimester. Most mommas to be begin to feel better and have more energy and it is the perfect time to secure your photo shoot and ensure availability. 

Timing is Everything!

Newborn photography sessions are typically done within the first two weeks of a baby's life. During this time, newborns are still very sleepy and easy to pose, allowing photographers to capture those adorable curled-up poses. It's important to book your session well in advance, ideally during your pregnancy. Most photographers recommend scheduling a session within the first 5 to 14 days after the baby's birth to ensure the best results.

Booking your session early has several advantages. First, it guarantees a spot with your preferred photographer, as many newborn photographers have limited availability due to the specific time frame in which these sessions are done. Second, it allows you to plan and prepare for the session, ensuring that you have everything you need and reducing any last-minute stress. Lastly, it gives you peace of mind knowing that you have secured a professional photographer who specializes in newborn photography.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR MORE THAN A SINGLE NEWBORN PHOTO SHOOT?

Booking at the beginning of the second trimester also allows us to plan for your maternity portraits! Most clients schedule their maternity session between 32 and 36 weeks. (It all depends on how much you’re showing, and which phase of pregnancy you’d like to capture. I recommend not scheduling too close to your due date, for obvious reasons like babies having their own timeline!).

By booking your newborn session early, it also allows you time to start thinking about what type of sessions you're desiring. Do you want a "Fresh 48" session in the hospital, to document all those emotions? A studio posed session or lifestyle session? Or all the above?! I love to accommodate my clients and deliver exactly what they're hoping for. Pearl Moments Photography offers packages to help obtain all the precious moments you want captured! Time moves so quickly, and you will never have these moments again. All too soon, that bump will be a real-life baby. Your newborn will be walking in a year. And before you know it, they are their own little person. You’ll be left wondering ‘what happened to my baby?’ 

FINDING THE PERFECT PHOTOGRAPHER. TIPS & CONSIDERATIONS:

Now that you know when to book a newborn session, let's explore some tips on finding the right photographer to capture those precious moments. While cost is important, it should never be the main reason for choosing a newborn photographer. Your baby’s safety and well-being come first, so make sure the photographer is properly trained and experienced. Important questions you should be asking your photographer before your session, according to the Professional Newborn Photographer’s Association, are:

• How many years have you been working as a newborn photographer and approximately how many babies have you handled up to this point?
• Have you received any newborn specific posing training and with whom did you train?
• What are the safety practices you have in place in your studio specifically geared towards the newborn client?
• Will my newborn be supported by human hands in all upright positions as well as any poses requiring suspension?
• Do you work with an assistant or provide spotters at your newborn sessions? If not, will you allow me to spot my baby during a session?
• What will happen in the case of illness, your own or otherwise?
• Are you currently up to date on the necessary vaccines needed when working with a pregnant or newborn population?
• Can you point me towards online resources from which I can learn about safe practices when photographing newborns?
• Are you a member of an organization or association directly servicing newborn photographers and their educational needs?

Also, ask for a detailed contract stating clearly what’s included in the session fee. Are there extra charges, for example? You wouldn’t want to book a session at a great price, only to discover afterwards that you can’t afford to purchase the digitals and products! Compare pricing and packages from different photographers to ensure they fit within your budget but also keep in mind that experienced and highly skilled photographers may charge higher rates, but the investment may be worth it for the quality and professionalism they provide.

Also, check out the photographer’s website for their portfolio. Look through their Facebook, Instagram, and other social media posts. What type of newborn portraits do they offer – fresh 48, lifestyle, or posed? Do you like their photography style? Do you see consistency in their images? You want to make sure what you see is what you love because it is most likely what you’ll receive.

Location is another consideration. Does the photographer come to your home? If sessions are at their studio, how far away is it?

Don't hesitate to seek recommendations from friends, family, or parenting groups. Personal recommendations can provide valuable insights and help you find photographers who have delivered exceptional results for others. Hearing about positive experiences from people you trust can give you confidence in your decision.

There’s a lot to consider when searching for a newborn photographer. With just a 2-week window to capture your newborn’s precious face, you’re investing in memories that you and your family will treasure for generations to come. This is a big decision, so take the time to research.

PEARL MOMENTS NEWBORN SESSIONS:

If you are looking in the Columbus, NE area for a newborn photo shoot in the comfort of your home, a fresh-48, or a studio posed session, I would love to share more information with you. From wardrobe & styling, to posing, and finally creating beautiful artwork to display in your home, my full-service photography business has all of the details taken care of!