Culvery City Newborn Photographer, Emily Winnie
Choosing the best newborn photographer is one of the most exciting and important decisions you’ll make as a new parent. You’re trusting someone to capture those fleeting first days with your baby, preserving the moments that will be treasured for a lifetime. And let’s be honest, newborn photography is no small feat! That’s why knowing what to ask your photographer is key to ensuring your baby’s safety, comfort, and the overall experience.
If you’re searching for “newborn photography near me” or specifically looking for a Culver City newborn photographer, you’ve come to the right place! I’m here to help you navigate those important questions so you can confidently book a session that feels perfect for you and your baby.
Safety First: Are you safety trained to handle newborns?
This is the number one question you should ask. Newborn photography isn’t just about cute photos—safety always comes first! Your photographer should have training in handling newborns safely and be able to guide the session to ensure your little one is never in any discomfort or danger. The best newborn photographers are often pro-level “baby whisperers,” able to calm and pose babies gently, ensuring both precious photos and your peace of mind.
Pose Prodigy: How do you ensure safe poses?
Newborns are fragile, so it’s important your photographer is an expert at posing them safely. Be sure to ask how they ensure that, especially with poses where baby’s head or limbs are positioned in a specific way. Additionally, inquire about the props—are they designed for newborn photography? Are they safe and sturdy enough to hold your baby comfortably? Safety should never be compromised for the sake of a pose or a cute prop.
Experience Matters: How many years have you been capturing those adorable squishy moments with newborns?
Experience makes a world of difference! Photographers who have worked with newborns for years know the ins and outs of soothing a fussy baby, working efficiently while still getting beautiful shots, and managing the unpredictability that comes with babies. If your photographer has been capturing those adorable squishy moments for a while, they’re likely pros at creating a relaxed and enjoyable session for both you and baby.
Toasty Warm: Is your studio cozy and warm?
Newborns love being warm and snug! A cozy studio is key to keeping baby happy and comfortable throughout the shoot. Whether your session is in-studio or on location, ask your photographer how they ensure a toasty, warm space for baby to relax and drift off to sleep (which makes those sweet poses even easier to capture!).
Breastfeeding Zone: Do you have a spot for me to breastfeed or pump?
A newborn session can take a couple of hours, and babies often need feeding breaks. Having a dedicated space to breastfeed or pump can make a world of difference in your comfort. Make sure your photographer has a comfortable spot for you to relax and feed baby whenever needed.
Chemical-Free Zone: Are there any harsh chemicals used to clean the props and fabrics baby will be touching?
Your baby’s delicate skin is sensitive to harsh chemicals, so it’s important to ask about the cleaning products used on fabrics, props, and the studio environment. Ensure that your photographer uses baby-safe, chemical-free cleaning products.
Clean Hands: How do you ensure your hands are clean when handling the baby?
It may seem obvious, but clean hands are a must! Babies are constantly putting their fingers in their mouths and eyes, so ask your photographer how they maintain hygiene. Frequent hand washing or sanitizing is essential when handling a newborn.
Sick Day Policy: What’s the process if you or someone around you is feeling under the weather?
We all know newborns have delicate immune systems, so be sure to ask what the photographer’s policy is if they or someone in their household is unwell. You want a photographer who prioritizes the health and safety of your baby and would be willing to reschedule if needed.
Portfolio Peek: Can I see some examples of your previous newborn sessions?
Let’s make sure your style matches mine! A photographer’s portfolio can tell you a lot about their style and experience. Do their images resonate with you? Are they aligned with the look you want for your newborn session? Don’t be afraid to ask to see their work before making your decision!
Not part of my safety tips, but something I believe in: you should always book newborn portraits with a professional. The biggest sign of that? They have a website, a significant amount of newborn work in their portfolio, and at least a couple of good reviews on Google.
Most importantly, book early! Newborns are typically photographed between 7-21 days old, so try to secure your spot by the start of your third trimester. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did once baby arrives!
If you have any questions about myself or my studio, please feel free to reach out! I’m always happy to chat.
