How do I choose a photographer for my newborn photos in Indianapolis?

When it comes to purchasing a crib, a comfy glider or rocker for the nursery, breastfeeding supplies (if you plan to nurse) and let’s not even get started with the options for bottles and pacifiers, the decision fatigue can be REAL! Choosing a photographer for your newborn photos in Indianapolis can seem equally daunting.

You’re so excited to welcome your baby and you’ve been doing lots of research about allll of the baby products on the market.

The options seem endless.

Now it’s time to book a newborn photographer.

You want to find the best fit for your family (someone you really vibe with) but how can you find the person that will help make your vision a reality?

Let’s breakdown the main things to consider when selecting a photographer so you can find the best fit for your family.

Are you wanting an In-home newborn session or studio newborn session?

Each newborn photographer has a unique editing style and process for how they approach portrait sessions. Viewing their website and social media accounts are an excellent way to assess whether you align with how they conduct business. You really need to know how they plan their sessions, their particular style of editing, and how much direction you will receive during your portrait session.

My newborn photos sessions in Indianapolis are organic, baby-led, relaxed, and up to three hours in length. I frequently photograph in my client’s homes but can use a studio if desired. I give prompts, direction, and also look for the little in-between candid moments. My goal is that your session is laid back, and you’re able to be fully present and in the moment with your family.

Other newborn photographers only photograph client’s in their studios with a focus on heavily posed newborn portraits featuring props and backdrops. They may require baby to be a specific age for the session.

Editing

Some photographers have a dark and moody style while others are true to color and still others are more film-like, or light and airy.

Gauge your reaction toward the photographs you see on their website and social media pages. Are you loving what you see right from the first glance?

Are there specific things you’re drawn to about the images? These questions can help you narrow down the style you’re looking for!

Personality

Ask if you can hop on a phone call or exchange a few emails with the photographer you’re considering. Talk through the available packages with the photographer and see if this person’s personality and their work resonate with you. The photographer that is the best fit will feel easy to talk to and understand. This person will be serving your family during a really tender time as you heal from having a baby. So make sure you’re able to chat easily with them.

Newborn Photos in Indianapolis: A Specialized Experience

One of the primary considerations to think about when choosing a photographer for your newborn photos in Indianapolis is their level of experience. How many years have they been a professional photographer? Do they have extensive experience working with newborns specifically?

Safety is paramount here. A landscape photographer, a wedding photographer, and a branding photographer may take beautiful photos in other situations but if they don’t have professional experience working with babies you may be asking someone to operate outside of their wheelhouse.

Newborn photos are an investment! You should walk into your newborn session feeling extremely confident that the person behind the camera is not only completely competent working with a fragile newborn, but also will capture the style you’ve been envisioning for your photos.

A professional photographer will have a contract, a non-refundable deposit or retainer, or a session fee that you pay up front to book their services. These are nonnegotiable when it comes to running a professional business. A contract makes sure you’re both on the same page when it comes to working together and is extremely important.

The investment you can expect to spend on newborn photos in Indianapolis directly reflects the years of experience that photographer has. If you’re looking for a seasoned professional who can give your family the time, attention and skill you need, you can expect to pay accordingly. Photographers newer to newborn photography may range between $300-$600. Photographers with over a decade of experience will be $1000+.

Collection or Package Inclusions

A big part of what determines if the photographer is a good fit for your family also comes down to what is included in their collections or packages. Once you inquire, the photographer should send you complete pricing details. This will include the number of images included in the collection, whether digital images are included in the package, and if they offer printed products. All of this information should be clear. If you have questions, definitely ask!

Some photographers are all-inclusive while others have packages that include a set number of images with the option to upgrade. Other photographers price images individually and you purchase the photographs after your portrait session.

Which do you prefer? Ask yourself which type of photographer you’d like to work with and what type of digital images and/or products you’d like to end up with at the end of your experience.

Does the photographer offer styling assistance? I offer my clients access to my complementary Motherhood Wardrobe. These flattering dresses can make preparing for your newborn session a breeze. No one wants to shop immediately postpartum or worry about amazon returns! I love walking through what you plan to wear and offer suggestions and tips for what photographs beautifully.

Walking away over the moon about your images, and an experience you loved is ultimately the goal! Finding the right fit for your family can take some research, but once you connect with right Indianapolis photographer for your newborn photos, you can rest assured that you’ll be taken care of each step of the way.

Curious about working with Katelyn Ng for your newborn photos?

Find more information including more information about me and my process here! You can find reviews to read what it’s like to work with me here.