Let’s be real—your baby will only be this tiny once. Blink and suddenly they’re asking for snacks and Wi-Fi. So yeah… choosing the right newborn photographer matters. A lot.
Here’s what you should actually be looking for (and what most people forget to ask about).
1. Safety Comes First. Always.
If safety isn’t their top priority, run. 🚩
A professional newborn photographer should:
• Be trained in newborn posing
• Support baby’s head and neck at all times
• Use safe, composite techniques for advanced poses
• Keep hands nearby even when “hands-free” poses appear
Your baby isn’t a prop. They’re precious cargo.
2. Experience With Real Babies
Instagram makes it look easy. It’s not.
Newborns:
• Get gassy
• Have accidents (yes… everywhere)
• Need feeding breaks
• Get overstimulated
An experienced photographer knows how to:
✔ Read baby cues
✔ Soothe and settle
✔ Work around feeding schedules
✔ Keep sessions calm and stress-free
This is NOT the time for someone “trying something new.”
3. Studio Environment Matters
Ask yourself:
Is it warm?
Is it clean?
Is everything sanitized?
A pro studio should include:
• Sanitized props & blankets
• Temperature control
• Calm lighting
• White noise or soothing sounds
Comfort = sleepy baby = magic photos.
4. Editing Style You Actually Love
Every photographer edits differently.
Look for:
• Soft skin tones
• Natural colors
• No over-smoothing
• No weird orange babies 😅
Scroll their portfolio. If you love every image, you’re in the right place.
5. Clear Process & Communication
You shouldn’t be guessing.
Your photographer should clearly explain:
• What to bring
• How long sessions take
• What happens if baby is fussy
• Turnaround time
• Pricing (no surprise invoices, please)
If they ghost you… that’s your sign.
6. Heirloom Products > Digital Files
Hot take:
Your photos deserve better than your phone camera roll.
Look for photographers who offer:
• Professional prints
• Albums
• Wall art
• Keepsake boxes
Because these images?
They’re your baby’s first legacy.
7. Someone You Actually Trust
You’re handing them:
• Your brand-new baby
• Your emotions
• Your memories
If you don’t feel comfortable… don’t book.
Vibe check matters.
Energy matters.
Trust your gut.
Final Thoughts
A newborn photographer isn’t just taking pictures.
They’re:
• Preserving memories
• Freezing time
• Creating heirlooms
• Honoring your family story
Choose someone who treats it like the responsibility it is.
Because one day…
This tiny baby will be taller than you.
And these photos?
They’ll mean everything.
For more information on newborn sessions check out www.mattandsheaphotography.com or call us at (423)521-7427