Newborn photography, is it worth it?
When it comes to newborn photography I often come across discussion on various forums about the value of it and is it worth it.
My impression is all end up with same conclusion, it is beautiful, cannot be compared to snaps taken from family and are priceless.
The argument though always rotates around the style of photos where some people love the squishy staged newborn poses and others prefer more lifestyle natural looking newborn images with the gorgeous professional finishing.
This however is very easy to resolve just by discussing the look you prefer for your end product or browse and find a photographer which style fit you well. All reputable baby photographers near you will be able to offer various styles and even try new approaches to make family happy.
This is what some mums reply on the question Is Newborn Photography Worth It?
Chloe - I didn't do it with DD and really regretted it as the photos you take yourself just don't compare
Titus - I had a session for my twins when they were just over a week old, and I'm really glad I did. She came to my house and the photos were very natural: natural light, both babies cuddled up asleep with a blanket draped over them.
Havetothink - Not worth it to me, use a decent camera, make sure it's in focus and your pictures will be worth as much to you as any professional's. I don't like the staging, just take a picture when the baby is fed and content. Lay them on a nice blanket or bean bag if you want a bit of extra colour/texture.
Kimberley - I did it for both my boys and plan to do it again with pumpkin. Luckily my husband didn't need any convincing. Pictures are the one thing that he will let me spend a little more on vs clothing, toys, ect. Pictures will last for ever but all the other things we buy for baby will be used and outgrown before you know it.
Carcas - God yes, a million times over. I've seen a few moms opt to do it themselves and none of them have impressed me. They jus look like a regular photo with failed attempts to awkwardly pose the baby. There's a lot to be said for someone that not only has a quality camera, but also knows posing, props, and photoshop.
Sugar - I have gotten them done for my first 2 and will again this time. It is expensive and if you're struggling financially, maybe try doing your own pics at home but I have never regretted getting them done. I love the photos so much and still look at them all the time and they look amazing on my photo wall.
Rachel - Having professional photos done properly is definitely not the same as having photos on your phone, I seriously doubt you would ever regret having them done :)
Kristen - Lord so worth it! I look at our dd’s photos and swoon over them all the time.
It is overwhelming how many mums value the baby photos and had never regretted. Surely there will be always people who doesn't see the value and will attempt to do it themselves. Still good but not the best result possible.
So why is it worth than...
It is timeless. The more time passes the more you realise how much more often you look back at these photos and want to remind yourself of every little detail. It is your masterpiece creation and your brain will start to fade out the memories of older days. There your photo memories will come in place.
Your toddler would love to see himself on the wall and will be pointing out on the portrait for years. This is your statement for him that you love, cherish and treasure his place in your life. It comes to show him what a special part he is of that family and assert the understanding he belongs there.
You hire a professional photographer for all your big days. Weddings, Anniversaries, Graduations etc. How can you miss the birth or first few days of new baby’s life? The use of light is essential skill. Don't ever trust a photographer using flash. This is dangerous for your infant eye sight. The baby must be handled with care, knowledge and precision in order to take the best shot of little details and so cute face expressions. New parents with no experience may sometimes unintentionally damage baby trying to make some poses or just taking a simple baby photo. Most people for example will just place their camera on auto and point and shoot. BEWARE your flash may damage badly baby eyes.
A professional is such for a reason. They know what and how to do it to follow the baby lead and make sure baby safety is paramount. Whatever your thoughts, talk to your baby photographer. She will be able to advice and guide you and also discuss the style of photos you are after. If you want to chat with me about it click here.
Price is another reason for many people to skip the newborn portraits. In that case you may just ask for payment plan. Many photographers offer such for a greater flexibility and not to stretch family budgets too much. I will discuss the pricing in detail in a separate blog post.
I am excited to hear all your thoughts on the subject and will try to answer all questions below.