8 Tips to Find the BEST Newborn Photographer

Finding a newborn baby photographer in Indianapolis can be challenging. There are so many options and it can be difficult to know what you should do first when looking for one. That is why we have put together an easy list of the 10 steps that you need to take in order to find a newborn baby photographer near you!

Start Planning Early for Your Newborn Photography Session

It’s a great idea to plan your newborn photo session before your baby arrives! Newborns are easiest to photograph in the first two to three weeks, when they’re super sleepy and can be curled up in those cute little poses everyone loves. If you wait too long, they might be more awake and harder to pose, so it’s best to book early to get those perfect shots.

Also, booking ahead takes the pressure off you after the baby is born. You’ll already have your photographer lined up, and you can focus on enjoying your new little one without rushing to find someone last minute.

But don’t worry—if your baby is already here, you can still call the studio to see if there are any sessions available. We’ll do our best to fit you in and create beautiful memories of your little one!

Figure out Your Budget for Your Newborn Photoshoot

Newborn baby photographers can vary dramatically in price depending. Once you know how much you are willing to spend then it becomes easier to find a newborn baby photographer that will fit within those parameters. If necessary, considering reaching a big financially to find the photographer who has the style and the right experience to create your newborn portraits. After all, they’re only a newborn for a very short period of time. Hiring an inexpensive and/or inexperienced newborn photographer can leave you with pictures you’re just not happy with. And considering it can take weeks between your session and the time you receive your final newborn portraits, it might be too late for you to have newborn pictures taken again.

Get References and Read Reviews for Your Baby Photographer

In your search for the best newborn baby photographer, it’s great to ask others about their experiences and get references. Ask friends, family members, and co-workers if they can recommend a baby photographer that they’ve used before.

You can also search online through websites like Google for reviews of newborn baby photographers to see what other people are saying.

Review the Photographer’s Work

Before you narrow down to your top newborn photographers, make sure you spend some time looking at their pictures. Visit galleries on their websites, visit their Instagram and Facebook pages. Make sure their style of photography matches the look and feel of what you’re looking for. Most photographers have a very specific style, dark and moody, light and airy. It’s best to choose a newborn photographer whose style matches your taste instead.

Check Out Your Newborn Photographer’s Expertise

Before hiring a newborn photographer, it’s important to check out their expertise to make sure they’re the right fit for your family. Newborn photography requires special skills, as you’re working with tiny, delicate babies who need to be handled with extra care. A photographer with experience will know how to safely pose your baby while keeping them comfortable. Take a look at their portfolio to see if they have plenty of examples of newborn work, not just general photography. This will give you a better idea of their style and whether they can capture the kind of images you’re hoping for.

Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions! A good newborn photographer should be able to explain their process, how they ensure safety during the session, and what kind of props or outfits they provide. By taking a little time to research, you’ll feel confident that your baby’s first photos will be captured beautifully and safely.

Ask What Happens if Baby Arrives Early or Late

It’s important to ask your newborn photographer what their policy is if your baby arrives earlier or later than expected. Since babies don’t always follow the schedule, it’s good to know how flexible the photographer can be with your session date. Many experienced newborn photographers understand that due dates are just estimates and offer some wiggle room when booking. Be sure to ask if they reserve time around your due date and how much notice they need to adjust the session if your baby comes early or a little late.

You’ll also want to ask about how they handle scheduling if their calendar is full or if they can accommodate last-minute changes. Some photographers build a buffer in their schedule just for these situations, while others might keep a waitlist. Either way, knowing in advance what their process is will give you peace of mind, so you won’t have to stress about missing that perfect newborn photography window!

Find Out What Packages Your Newborn Photographer Offers

Before booking your newborn photographer, it’s important to find out what photography packages they offer. Every photographer structures their services and pricing differently, so asking about the available options can help you choose a package that fits your needs and budget. Some photographers offer mini sessions, which are shorter and include fewer images, while others may provide full-length sessions with more time and a larger selection of edited photos.

Understanding all the options upfront will help you make an informed decision and ensure you’re getting exactly what you want from your newborn photography experience. It also helps avoid any surprises when it comes to pricing or what’s included in the final portrait package.

Understand Your Photographers’ Newborn Photography Policies

Understanding your newborn photographer’s policies is an important step to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Every photographer has their own set of policies regarding scheduling, payments, cancellations, and more, so it’s essential to clarify these details before booking. For example, ask about their deposit or retainer policy—many photographers require one to hold your spot, especially since newborn sessions are usually booked months in advance. You’ll want to know if the deposit is refundable or transferable in case your plans change or the baby arrives much earlier or later than expected.

It’s also a good idea to ask about their cancellation and rescheduling policies. Life with a newborn can be unpredictable, and understanding how much notice is required if you need to move the session or cancel entirely is key. Some photographers may charge a rescheduling fee or may have a waiting list, so understanding these policies upfront can help avoid misunderstandings later on. Additionally, ask about their turnaround time for delivering photos, how long they keep your images on file, and any restrictions on reprinting or sharing photos. Knowing these details will give you confidence in the process and ensure your newborn photography session goes as smoothly as possible.