Unquestionably, the most exciting time of your life will be when you are expecting your first baby. It’s important to capture this fleeting time, as it won’t last long. Choosing the right newborn photographer can be a challenge. There is a vast array of photographers to choose from. Here is Part 1 of a special segment on what to consider when looking for the right newborn photographer.

1. Do you love the photographer’s portfolio?

At first glance, how does the photographer’s newborn images make you feel? Do you love the photographer’s work? Does the photographer have a large variety of poses to choose from? Many photographers invest a lot of time, in some cases, years perfecting each one of the poses shown in their portfolio. Many newborn photographers also invest a lot of their sales into props, backgrounds and accessories to make your experience unique and enjoyable. At first glance, baby should be the focus of the composition. Often a sign of a good photographer can be their ability to pose baby without a lot of distracting accessories such as bold patterns or busy hats and headbands. The old adage, “less is more” is often better. Trends and fads quickly fade; however, a timeless, classic image will still be in style and cherished 20, 30 or 40 years from now.

2. How many newborns have they photographed?

Experienced newborn photographers have spent many years perfecting their craft. It takes time and patience to photograph a newborn baby and lots of experience to refine posing skills. Newborn photography workshops are a great way to learn the art of newborn photography. You want to make sure that the photographer’s portfolio is comprised of images they have taken themselves. Each photographer has a different skill level and style. What you like is unique to you and you want to choose a photographer who has a style that you love. Look at the lighting and composition of each image. Also, look very carefully at the attention to detail in each image. Do the backgrounds look nice and smooth or are they lumpy with wrinkles? Look closely at baby’s hands, fingers, feet and toes. Are the toes sinking into the blanket? Are the fingers nice and relaxed? What about baby’s facial expression? Does baby look peaceful and happy?

3. Do they offer in person consultations?

Does the photographer offer in person consultations? We are all busy. Unless you have a friend who has used a photographer and had a great experience with him/her, it is a good idea to meet the photographer in person prior to booking. This will allow you to see a larger array of samples. You will be able to touch and feel the photographer’s product line such as fine art storybooks. You will also be able to view the photographer’s studio space.

4. Do they offer maternity portraits?

Familiarity and the same great quality come with working with the same photographer for both your pregnancy pictures and newborn photos. Having both sessions with one photographer will ensure consistency in quality and style of images. Many photographers allow you to combine images from both sessions into one package. Will the photographer allow you to book a maternity session without a newborn session?

5. Do they offer child photography?

This is especially important if you are expecting your second or third little one. Every mom wants an image of all her children together during a newborn photo session. A good child photographer has experience photographing children and will be able to capture a beautiful image of your newborn and older children together. A two-year-old toddler can be especially challenging to photograph. An experienced photographer knows how to settle your newborn and interact with your children to capture timeless sibling and family images.

We want you to have the most excellent experience possible, whether or not you choose Chandra Lee to be your newborn photographer.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of what to consider when looking for a newborn photographer.

Please visit the Toronto Newborn Photographer | Baby and Maternity Photography portfolio for more newborn, baby and maternity pictures.