Finding the Right Newborn Photographer

I remember being pregnant with my first child and working on finding the right newborn photographer to document our growing family. I was the first of my Los Angeles friends to have a baby, so getting a referral wasn’t an option. 

There were so many photographers out there, which made me feel incredibly overwhelmed. I wasn’t sure of the criteria I was looking for and couldn’t quite understand the differences between the photographers I’d found, other than the style of their photos. I had no idea how to approach finding the right newborn photographer for me.

Now, as a Newborn Photographer, I put together this resource to help parents find the perfect photographer for them.

Check out this short video for an introduction on Finding the Right Newborn Photographer.

Let’s start with the three most common questions that come up while finding the right newborn photographer:

1. What’s the difference between portrait, lifestyle, and documentary photography?
2. Should I have a session at home or on location?
3. Why do the costs vary so much between photographers? What am I paying for?

Let’s dive in by discussing the difference between these three styles of photography that exist within the Newborn & Family genre.

And since picking a photographer is only the first step for preparing for your Newborn Photo Session, check out my article The Newborn Photography Checklist (free pdf included!) to make the whole process feel easier and more manageable. Or just grab the free guide below!

What’s the difference between portrait, lifestyle, and documentary photography?

One simple way to distinguish Documentary Photography from Portrait or Lifestyle is this: With Portrait and Lifestyle Photography, you, the subject, are entering the photographer’s world and working within their guidelines. 

With Documentary Photography, however, the photographer is coming to you and working within your space without much interference.

Should I have a photo session at home or on location?

This can be a tough decision. Check out the video for a pros and pros list of each! To summarize, here is what you should be asking yourself: Do I want my photos to capture everyday life OR do I want them to feel like a special occasion?

There’s no wrong answer. It’s really a matter of personal preference. But however you choose to answer will determine not just the best setting for your photos, but the style as well. 

Why do the costs vary so much between photographers? What am I paying for?

Why do the costs vary so much between photographers? One person can charge a couple hundred dollars while another has a price tag in the thousands. Why?

Well, when you hire a photographer, you’re paying for more than just the photos. You’re also purchasing an experience. The photographer’s availability, how streamlined/organized their process is, quality of communication, how you receive your photos, whether they offer print products or just digitals… these are all going to vary depending on the photographer and the price point.

Conclusion: What to consider when hiring a Newborn Photographer

To finish things off, here are the main considerations you should have before hiring a photographer. Ask yourself:

• Do I want to capture life as it is or do I want my photos to feel like a special occasion?
• What kind of experience do I want to have with my photographer?
• Do I want high-quality products as well as digitals?

Good luck! I hope you find the perfect fit for your family!

Finding the Right Newborn Photographer

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Marjorie Cohen is a Los Angeles Newborn Photographer offering at-home documentary sessions to families in LA County. Marjorie works with parents who want relaxed and natural photos with their newborn. Follow along in Instagram for her latest work!