Best Newborn Photographers in Grand Rapids

However, those methods aren’t essential for capturing a beautiful, engaging photo of your baby. Simplicity, skill, and experience can work wonders. A discussion with potential baby photographers and a review of their portfolio can help new parents choose the newborn photographer that best meets their needs.

Newborn photography session scheduling can be challenging. Parents have a very narrow window after the baby arrives to secure those time-sensitive photos. But babies don’t arrive on schedule. So, it’s best to find a newborn photographer well in advance of your due date. Be sure they're flexible and available in the weeks prior to and after that date.

Newborns are easily identifiable by their size and the tight fetal position they had in the womb. But they don’t maintain those curly poses for long. So, it’s important to have their photo shoot a few days after birth. Try not to wait over two weeks post-childbirth if you want the brand-new infant image for your photos.

The length of a newborn shoot varies. But expect it to take at least two hours, possibly three to four hours. The infant’s comfort and safety are the priority. Little ones are unpredictable, and the photographer might need to wait until Baby has been lulled to sleep. Plus, the infant will probably need to be fed and changed during the shoot.

On average, professional newborn photographers charge between $100 and $300 per hour, and the photo shoot can easily take up to four hours. Those fees should include the digital images. Parents will pay separately to have them printed. Other photographers charge flat fees per session or per number of photographs. Most of these services start at $100 or higher.

 A productive photo shoot is difficult with newborns younger than five days. They’re hungry and restless, as they’re not yet familiar with being outside the womb. Wait about five to seven days when they’re on a somewhat reliable feeding schedule and sleepy and relaxed for longer periods of time. But waiting longer than two weeks risks losing that familiar newborn look.

A copyright release gives up ownership of the images. The photographer transfers it to the purchaser. That means the photographer may not use those photos on their website or elsewhere without permission. But a print release lets the photographer retain ownership and use, even for marketing. The client is merely allowed access to the images for personal use, with no editing.

Common props such as hats, headbands, bows, blankets, wraps, baskets, bowls, and holiday items are accessible at most large retail stores and e-commerce sites. More unusual props — stork sacks, small prop instruments, hammocks, movie props, and superhero outfits — can be purchased on Amazon, Etsy, in craft stores, garage sales, and flea markets. Relatives, friends, co-workers, and neighbors are also likely sources. 

In-home newborn photo shoots are common. Some photographers even prefer it. Parents and their babies are comfortable and more relaxed in a familiar setting. But the photographer may want to first check for sufficient light in the home to ensure professional results. It’s best to discuss these requests before hiring a newborn photographer.

Let the parents know exactly what to expect. If you’re doing an in-home shoot, visit the home before the session to assess lighting and potential areas for the shoot. Eat beforehand and clear enough time on your schedule in case the session goes long. Use a checklist for supplies and pack your gear the night before. Wear comfortable clothing. And be open to inspiration.

A backup camera and lenses are a good idea. You should also download a white noise app or soothing music to use during the shoot. These distractions help drown out camera shutter sounds that can startle Baby. Pack props, pillows, and blankets, and a newborn posing beanbag is a popular option, as well. Don’t forget your camera stand and lights.

Let them know what to expect before the shoot. Give them a handout or link to your website for helpful tips and information. You should have a page dedicated to this. When they arrive at your studio or you get to their home, take time to make sure everyone feels comfortable. Answer questions they may have before beginning the shoot.  

In newborn photography, safety is paramount. While it's not likely to harm the infant's vision, pop-up flash photography is not recommended. Ambient lighting is usually a better option. You can use natural light, modulated indoor light, and white studio lights. If flash photography is necessary, use low light external flashes and bounce them off a wall or ceiling.

Start by getting used to being around babies, holding them, and noticing how parents handle their newborns. Turn to friends and relatives with babies and watch videos of newborns. You’ll be far more comfortable when you photograph your newborn subjects. Studying, photography classes, and working as a photographer’s assistant or apprentice can also help prepare you.

Newborn photographers have an extremely specific target audience. So, focus your marketing efforts on expectant parents in the places they frequent. Offline, consider advertising with businesses who have the same audience, like prenatal care providers, retailers who sell baby clothes and supplies, and publications that focus on pregnancy and babies. Create a website to spotlight your work, and use online marketing to attract traffic.

A wide aperture between f/2.8 and f/8 is suggested for this type of photography. This blurs the background, keeping the focus on the infant. But it also helps account for a wiggly newborn. Use aperture priority mode for speed and consistency.

Turn to hospitals, prenatal clinics, and businesses that cater to expectant parents. They are likely to have many resources and references you can follow up on to learn about newborn safety.