Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience filled with joy, love, and countless unforgettable moments. The first few weeks after your baby arrives are especially magical — and fleeting. That’s why many parents choose to preserve those early days through a professional newborn photoshoot.

But hiring the right newborn photographer is not just about who takes the best photos. It’s about finding someone who understands the unique needs of newborns, knows how to create a safe and comforting environment, and can capture genuine, heartwarming moments.

Just like you probably researched and asked multiple questions before hiring your wedding photographer, it’s essential to ask the right questions before selecting a newborn photographer. The answers will help you make a confident, informed decision that gives you peace of mind and beautiful photos to cherish forever.

📸 Also, before diving into the questions, check out our popular blog on Maternity photoshoot ideas to try by yourself — perfect for those looking to plan a unique session outside the studio!

1. Do You Have Experience as a Newborn Photographer?

This should be your very first question — and one of the most important.

Newborn photography is not like any other kind of photography. It involves careful posing, handling delicate infants, calming crying babies, and sometimes even waiting patiently for that perfect sleepy moment.

Ask the photographer how long they’ve been working specifically with newborns. A good benchmark is at least 2–3 years of experience and a portfolio showcasing at least 20 newborn sessions. Their work should display not only technical skill but also an understanding of newborn safety and comfort.

The more experienced they are, the more confident you’ll feel placing your little one in their care.

2. What Age Range Do You Work With, and Are You Comfortable Photographing Premature Babies?

Every photographer has a comfort zone. While some may specialize in toddlers or kids between 2–5 years, others are confident handling tiny, 10–15 day-old newborns.

It’s important to ask what age range they typically work with — especially if your baby was born prematurely. A professional newborn photographer should be able to handle the extra care and gentleness needed for premature babies.

Also, ask if they have worked with babies who are particularly fussy or need more time to settle. Their experience and patience in these situations can make all the difference in getting the perfect shot.

3. Where is Your Studio Located, and What Safety & Sanitization Measures Do You Follow?

With a newborn, even the shortest trip can feel like a big deal. So it helps if the studio is located close to your home — but that’s not all that matters.

In today’s world, cleanliness is a top priority. Ask the photographer:

• Is the studio sanitized after each session?

• Are props, outfits, and wraps cleaned regularly?

• Is hand sanitizer available and used before handling the baby?

• Are sick clients or staff allowed in the studio?

A professional newborn photographer will always prioritize safety and hygiene, knowing how important it is to keep your baby in a healthy, sterile environment.

Bonus tip: If you’re planning a home photoshoot instead of a studio one, ask about how they sanitize and pack their props and backdrops for home sessions.

4. What Baby Safety Precautions Do You Take During the Shoot?

Newborns are incredibly fragile and need to be handled with extreme care. Every newborn photographer should follow strict safety protocols during a shoot.

Some essential things to look for:

• Studio temperature: The room should be warm, ideally around 27°C, to ensure the baby doesn’t feel cold.

• Never left alone: The baby should never be left unattended, even for a second.

• Support during poses: Any pose that requires special positioning must be done with utmost care or edited in post-production.

• Clean equipment: Blankets, wraps, headbands, and all other accessories should be washed and disinfected between sessions.

• Smoke-free studio: There should be absolutely no smoking allowed on set.

Don’t hesitate to ask for details. A great newborn photographer will be more than happy to share their safety process with you — it shows their professionalism and dedication.

5. Will You Provide Retouched Photos or Just Raw Files?

Editing plays a big role in newborn photography. Babies often have red patches, flaky skin, or little blemishes that can easily be softened during the editing process.

So it’s important to ask whether your photographer will provide professionally edited images or only raw (unedited) files.

Retouched images typically include:

• Softened skin and tones

• Color correction and lighting adjustments

• Removal of distractions from the background

• Cropping and framing the photo perfectly

If you’re not experienced in using editing tools yourself, opting for a photographer who includes professional editing in their package can save you a lot of time and effort — and ensure your final photos look stunning and polished.

 

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