When you are ready to book a session for newborn photos there are some things you’ll want to keep in mind. Here are five of the most important:
Experience
It’s important to hire a photographer who has experience shooting the type of session you’re interested in. For example, if you’re looking for newborn photos, make sure to hire a photographer that has experience photographing newborns. Newborn photography involves very unique skills and knowledge about newborn safety and posing. Not every photographer will have those skills.
The same goes for weddings – make sure they have experience shooting weddings before hiring them. Weddings are stressful enough without an inexperienced photographer. Ask your photographer how much experience they have shooting the type of session you’re wanting. Look through their portfolio. You should see many examples of the images that you are looking for.
Price
There’s no such thing as a good deal if you’re not happy with the results. Don’t be afraid to ask for a portfolio or price list before making your decision.
Obviously, price is going to be a major consideration when hiring a photographer. Make sure to get quotes from different photographers that have the skills and style you are searching for.
But, remember that you get what you pay for in most cases, so don’t necessarily go with the cheapest option. Make sure your photographer portfolio is appealing to you, that they are experienced and knowledgeable enough to capture all of the shots on your “must-have” list.
Be sure to get an idea of what is included in the final cost, such as travel expenses, digital files, prints, or album design. There are many ways for photographers to structure their pricing. Some split the price up, session fee, then the client buys digital packages or prints separately. Some have all-inclusive digital pricing but don’t do prints. Ultimately, be sure you understand what is included and what is due when.
One more thing to keep in mind when it comes to price, often the photographers that charge more, charge more for a reason. They have a website, maybe a fully equipped studio, top-quality gear, and many other expenses that they are paying for to offer the best possible experience to their clients.
Editing Style
When you’re hiring a photographer, editing style is also very important to consider. Some photographers prefer a more natural look, while others like to edit their photos quite heavily. If you have a specific editing style in mind, be sure to do your research before hiring your photographer.
Keep in mind, your images should be in line with the images that they are displaying on their website. If their images are light and airy, then that’s what to expect. My point is, don’t hire the ‘light and airy’ photographer if you like the ‘deep and moody’ editing style. You will be disappointed and it won’t be the photographer’s fault.
Absolutely both are lovely, but they are very different. You’re either embracing shadows and grain or you want things bright and sharp. The same goes for a photographer that uses natural light vs strobe. The final product will be very different, so it’s important to love your photographer’s portfolio.
Equipment
Finally, when considering hiring a photographer, it’s important to think about their equipment. Photographers use different types of cameras and lenses for different types of sessions. They don’t need the most expensive camera or lens, but it’s important that their equipment be up-to-date and pro-quality so the job is done properly. 
Don’t get this confused with the idea that the camera takes the photos, of course, it doesn’t matter how amazing the equipment is if it is in the hands of an amateur with no clue how to operate it. But if you are wanting higher-quality images you may want a photographer that is set up for success. Keeping this in mind, ask what lenses they have and use the most, what camera do they have, do they use off-camera lighting?
Get it in Writing
To protect yourself and your photographer, it’s smart to have a written contract. Most legit photographers will have a contact detailing what is being promised, for what. They will clearly lay out what will and will not happen, when. This is good, but you do need to pay attention to what you are agreeing to. Often photographers will have it in their contract that the session fee or deposit is non-fundable. These are the things to look out for.
While this is not unusual or wrong to have a non-refundable fee, you might want to know this going in. Always read the contract. Other things that the contract may outline, are things like no other people taking photos with any camera or how long they will if you are late and if there will be a refund after.
When hiring a photographer, be sure to keep these five things in mind! They’ll ensure that you get the best possible photos. Thanks for reading!
