Searching for an MN newborn photographer? Finding the right photographer to capture the milestone of welcoming a new baby to your family is a big decision. You might be curious to know what you should be looking for throughout the process and how to know if you’ve found the right photographer to bring your cherished memories to life. Below, I’ve detailed the 6 key elements to be mindful of during your search, along with answers to some common FAQs. Keep reading for more details.
How to choose an MN newborn photographer
1. Style
Before you begin the selection process, you’ll need to have a firm grasp on the type of style you’re searching for versus the style a newborn photographer offers. An MN newborn photographer’s style is their calling card. The imagery represented on their website and social channels is what you can expect for your own photos. If you are dreaming of posed photos, but a photographer is only showcasing lifestyle and documentary photos, then it would be safe to assume posed photography will not be part of the experience they offer.
2. Portfolio
Once you have an idea of what style resonates with you the most, click through your photographer’s online portfolio. Typically, with newborn and family photographers in MN you can expect a tab on their website to be dedicated to the photos they’ve taken of past clients. Additionally, many photographers, such as myself, will showcase their most recent photoshoots through their blog. Don’t be afraid to click around and view their work while imagining if this is what you have in mind for your family.
3. Experience
Photographing newborns, children, and families requires experience. A professional family photographer will know how to pace the schedule around your newborn’s needs. Conversely, they will also know how to get big siblings excited about being involved in the photoshoot without the use of bribes or false promises. If you want to know more about the experience you can expect from working with your MN newborn photographer, you’ll have to take the time to read reviews and testimonials from their past clients. What are their clients saying about their overall experience? Additionally, what are their clients saying about the photos they received?
4. Consider Location
Where do you imagine working with your MN newborn photographer? Some photographers offer studio-only experiences, while others will work with you in your home or at the outdoor location of your choosing. If you can’t imagine taking your newborn out of doors at this stage quite yet, then you’ll need to find an MN newborn photographer who has the experience of working with newborns and families from the comfort of their family home.
5. Understand the Process
There are two processes involved with a newborn photoshoot. The first is the booking process, which covers packages and pricing. The second is the delivery process for your photos. Every MN newborn photographer will approach each of these processes differently. The most important thing to look for before you book with a newborn photographer is whether either of these processes is clearly spelled out in advance, setting the expectation for your time together.
When it comes to working with families, my process is to first connect through a phone call. This initial call ensures both of our comfort levels. From there, I follow up with an email to provide details on how to secure a session. In the lead-up to the session, my clients will receive a prep guide to provide them with guidance on attire and preparing their home. I also check in at least twice more to see if I can answer any additional questions and make certain my families feel comfortable, prepared, and excited for their photoshoot.
After their session, my clients receive access to a slideshow where they can view their photos for 24 hours. This gives them the time and space needed to select the best package that fits their needs, download the images they’ve selected, and order prints to hang on the walls of their beautiful homes.
6. Your Comfort Level
Now that you have a grasp on style, experience, and process; how comfortable do you feel with your photographer? Have they carefully listened to all of your needs and concerns? Have they offered feedback and guidance when you connected with them? Remember, you will be spending close to two hours with your photographer, possibly in your home. It’s important that you not only feel comfortable with them but that you are cared for each and every step of the way.
Do you still have more questions about working with your MN newborn photographer? Here are some common FAQs.
When should I hire a newborn photographer?
The ideal time to hire your MN newborn photographer would be at the beginning of your third trimester. This will allow plenty of time to plan your session before focusing on your birthing experience.
Is it worth getting a newborn photoshoot?
Yes! This photoshoot is as much for you and the rest of your family as it is about celebrating baby. A newborn photoshoot is a beautiful way for everyone to come together at this very moment and honor this amazing milestone in your family.
Do hospitals offer newborn photography?
Many hospitals will offer newborn photography during your stay. However, I would caution you in your decision-making. The experience I provide as an MN newborn photographer includes Mom, Dad, and big siblings. This focus captures the beauty of your family as one loving unit, away from the machines, hospital gowns, and IVs.
Is two months to late to photograph a newborn?
Typically, a newborn photoshoot will take place right around the 2-3 week mark. However, I understand that the birthing experience can be traumatic for some, and the health of the moms and babies I work with is of the utmost importance. If there is any reason that you cannot schedule your session for 2-3 weeks after the baby’s arrival, you can always reach out to me, and I will do my best to accommodate your needs.
How should I pose my baby for newborn photos?
As discussed above, there are many different styles of newborn photography, including posed. The experience I provide the families I work with is centered around their lifestyle. That means no posing. If baby feels safe and happy in Mom or Dad’s arms, then that’s what we’ll capture them. If your baby is slumbering away in their bassinet or receiving those cherished forehead kisses from their big brother or sister, then I’ll capture those too. Photos that evoke emotion and portray sentiment are far more beautiful than any ‘pose’.
Newborn Photographer MN
Are you ready to learn about taking the first step in working with an MN newborn photographer? You can find more details about the packages and experience I offer at this link. Or, to view more of my work, you can take a peek inside some of my most recent newborn photoshoots through the links below.
