Top 5 Things to Look for in a Newborn Photographer

When it comes to newborn photography, there are a few key things you should look for when choosing a professional. First and foremost, a newborn photographer should have adequate training in the form of workshops and courses. When looking at the work done by other newborn photographers, pay attention to the quality of their images and prints. If the work doesn’t look crisp and clean, or if the colors are faded, lacking contrast, or too dark, move on to another photographer. The next thing you need in your search is an excellent photographer who has been vetted by others. Ask around or search online for awards won by your potential photographer – if you come across any articles about them that praise their work, that is also good news! Another thing to look for is studio set up – does the environment seem too cold or busy? Is there enough comfort provided to make your client feel welcomed?

Professional newborn photographer should have a keen eye for composition and lighting techniques, as well as the knowledge to scientifically create optimal skin tone using special studio lights. A newborn photographer who is experienced with newborns will be able remain calm, cool and collected as she soothes your baby and makes you feel right at home in the studio.

A professional newborn photographer is definitely an investment. Especially with your precious new bundle and addition to the family, it makes sense to find a photographer who will serve your needs and requirements. KatieRie likes to think of clients as family, watching as the members grow and flourish–from newborn to family sessions, year after year.

A professional newborn photographer is an artist who has mastered their art and pays special attention to the tiniest details, from the props, backdrops, headbands and layers to the professional equipment that is top-notch and above anything else. Safety is NUMBER ONE priority. Your precious bundle is never forced into any pose, but gently positioned throughout the entire session.

Concord Newborn Photography FAQ’s

Concord Newborn Photography FAQ’s

There is SO MUCH that goes into a Newborn Photo Session, that I decided a FAQ post was in order.  It’s easy for me, the photographer, to easily overlook the details that come second-nature to me, simply because I do so many sessions.  I have to remind myself to look at the sessions–from beginning to end–through the eyes of first time clients and parents.  Here are some answers to your burning questions. (That sounded dramatic, right?! Dum, dum, DUMMMMMMM).

Best Newborn Photographer--Charlotte, NC

 

Why is training important?

I’m SO happy you asked! Training is SUPER important, in my humble opinion. Your photographer is handling your precious little babe who grew in your womb for nine whole months! (Well…technically TEN!). You don’t want just anyone delivering your baby, do you? You look for experience, training, qualifications…SO MANY THINGS! It’s the SAME for newborn photographers! People…listen. CHEAPER IS NOT BETTER. Can we all say that together?! I understand everyone has a budget, but also understand if you want the BEST OF THE BEST, you are going to have to pay for an experienced photographer–for someone who has the training.  I continue to learn from the best in the biz. I have invested in learning from top experts in the industry for hands-on training.  I have learned safety techniques–what to do, what NOT to do.  I didn’t just wake up one day and decide to be a Newborn Photographer.  I TRAINED to become a newborn photographer.  One of my FAVORITE photographers I continue to learn and train from is Amy McDaniel of Dewdrops Photography.  Look her up.  She’s kinda a big deal. I also have trained and continue to learn from Twig and Olive Photography (again…kinda a big deal). Why do I continue to invest in my education? Because I want to offer the absolute best for my clients. For YOU! Pretty cool, right??

Charlotte Newborn Photographer

When is it ideal to book my newborn session?

I always tell clients as soon as you know you are pregnant and are “in the clear,” that’s when to look for newborn photographers.  Why? because my schedule books up FAST. Plus I only take on so many sessions per month.  I do this because I dedicate my full attention to serving my clients. I never want to be in a position where I am overbooked and can’t offer 100% of my time to each person so they feel like they are my only client.  Are you reading this and you are in your second or third trimester? That’s perfectly fine! Hope is not lost! I always encourage people to reach out to see if there is room in the schedule. Once booked, we pencil in your due date.  A signed contract and paid retainer secures your date! I LOVE photographing newborns within the first ten days of life.

Charlotte Maternity Photography

I just booked my Newborn Session, now what?

Book your Maternity session too! I LOVE working with families throughout the journey of becoming or expanding their families. That includes documenting that beautiful BUMP. This is when we can focus on your beautiful belly and those sweet moments before baby arrives.  This is your time to pamper yourself –get your hair and makeup done. Get a pedicure and manicure! Time goes so quickly that it’s important to capture the moments leading up to the arrival of your little one.  Before you know it, you from this (above), to THIS! (Below)…

My baby was born, when should I contact you?

I always tell my clients to contact me right from the hospital. Yep! I’m on the list of people to contact right away along with grandma and grandpa, aunts and uncles.  Why? So we can schedule your session in a timely manner. I have had past clients contact me when they are settled and at home many days later– I DO NOT recommend this. Why? I can’t guarantee we can get baby into the studio during that sweet-spot!  As I said before, my sweet-spot for photographing newborns is within the first ten days of life.  This is when they are sleepiest and can be posed in those curly positions with ease. That being said, I HAVE photographed a newborn who was 20 days old just fine.  It CAN be done.  However, in my experience, I have found the average “smooth” newborn sessions happen in that first window of time. Of course, every baby is different AND due dates sometimes factor into the mix (if baby is a premie or not). These things all factor into each unique situation.

Best Newborn Photographer--Charlotte, NC

What do I need to bring to my session?

Nothing!  Well…that’s not entirely true. You need to bring yourselves and baby! How amazing is that?! You don’t have to worry about a thing except showing up on time! The studio is well equipped with props, backdrops, headbands, hats, layers up the wazoo! I actually think I might have a prop-problem.  All the things offered by the studio are specifically for newborn photography. Hats and headbands have been handmade with special fabric by photography vendors who do this for a living. And because of the craziness of Covid-19, extra precautions need to be in place. One of the things is no outside props or outfits.  Another thing is only immediate family members allowed in the studio.  Take a look at the safety measures that are taken to ensure cleanliness and safety:

 

KatieRie Photography Products

Do you offer products?

You bet your bottom dollar I offer products! I always say if you are investing in a photographer, invest in products as well! I am here to HELP YOU! There’s a program I utilize where I can use a phone pic of your wall or walls and I can show you different sizes and products and how they look on YOUR VERY OWN WALLS. Plus I offer a lifetime guarantee on all products purchased through me.  These are not your average products either.  These beautiful pieces are works of art that are unique–you won’t find replicas at Hobby Lobby! Let me guide you in finding products that are right for your home.  Those gorgeous images should not just sit on your computer–these need to be hanging in your home!

 

Phew! That was A LOT! Maybe a continuation is in order.  Are you reading this and think we are a good fit?

LET’S CHAT!

Huntersville, NC Newborn Photographer

Welcome to the World, Sweet Dominic!

Best Newborn Photos

When I say I have the cutest clients, I mean I have the cutest clients. When mom sent me the email letting me know little Dominic had arrived, the photo she attached was of him smiling already in the hospital! Melt. My. HEART! He was born on July 10th at 7 pounds 9 ounces. The PERFECT size, if you ask me! Mom first contacted me a few months ago, wanting to schedule her soon-to-be bundle’s newborn photo shoot and I was so happy she did and that I had an opening!  All of his images were absolutely gorgeous…but don’t take MY word for it.  Look for yourself!

Huntersville, NC Newborn Photographer

Once a client has booked and secured their date (by signing a contract with a paid retainer), I communicate with the client a few more times leading up to the session.  I always ask what the nursery looks like (and to attach a photo for reference) and/or if they have any specific themes or color preferences.  Mom sent me a photo of this sweet boy’s nursery and I was in love!  I wanted her to come decorate MY house;)  I then knew exactly what to pull for Dominic’s session that would look perfect in their house.  I work with ALL my clients to achieve this outcome!  One of the many perks of booking with KatieRie Photography. Another bonus is that you don’t have to bring a THING to your session, other than your baby.  That’s right! The studio is totally equipped with props (TONS of props), headbands, layering pieces, bonnets, hats, little outfits–all of these things have been made specifically for newborn photography and they are all so perfect and classic for newborn sessions! I also answer every single question leading up to your session to ease any anxiety you might have.  Your newborn photography session will happen with tons of ease and comfort. (Check out this post for more questions answered about your experience with KatieRie).

Huntersville, NC Newborn PhotographerHuntersville, NC Newborn PhotographerBest Newborn Photos

I LOVE getting newborns into the studio within the first ten days of life–for me, this is when they are super sleepy and can transition from pose to pose with ease.  I have photographed slightly older newborns as well with great success, I just prefer the ten day window for my newbies.  Either way, you will get gorgeous works of art that can be beautifully displayed in your home forever!  Just take Dominic’s gallery as a sublime example!

Best Newborn Photos

Are you expecting or do you know someone who is?  Send them my way!  We can CHAT and see if we are a good match!

Huntersville Newborn Photos || KatieRie Photography

Welcome to the World, Baby Kennedy!

Professional Newborn Photos

Y’all. I can’t EVEN with this session.  I just CAN’T. Obsessed with this sweet gallery is an understatement. Gahhh! Can’t wait for you to see! This mommy found me on Google and reached out waaaaay back in November.  Since we had just moved to the Charlotte, NC area in October (from WI), I was all too excited to meet this sweet couple and plan their sessions.  Mom hired me for their pregnancy announcement photos and then also opted for the Premium Package for the newborn session.  And I’m OH SO HAPPY THEY DID!

Huntersville Newborn PhotosHuntersville Newborn PhotosProfessional Newborn Photos

Just look at how BEAUTIFUL this little babe is! She was so peaceful during her session.  We barely had to break for feeding or changing.  She was just so CHILL and wonderful.  Of course I like to think I had something to do with it (but I definitely can’t take all the credit of her peaceful demeanor).  When parents book KatieRie Photography for newborn shoots, I advise that they send me a text or email right when baby is born (from the hospital!) so we can set the date for the session ASAP.  I love getting newborns into the studio within the first ten days of life.  This is when they are super sleepy and I can transition them form pose to pose with ease.  Of COURSE if someone has an older newborn, I can still work my baby-whispering magic too. Once parents reach out after baby is born I send my Studio Guide for parents to prepare for their session. Just look at the works of art that will decorate this family’s home!

Huntersville Newborn PhotosHuntersville Newborn PhotosHuntersville Newborn PhotosHuntersville Newborn PhotosProfessional Newborn Photos

Don’t you agree?! EVERY image in this gallery is FINE ART. Seriously.

Huntersville Newborn PhotosProfessional Newborn Photos

 


If you are searching for the BEST (experienced, trained) newborn photographer for your photos, DO NOT LOOK ANY FURTHER. Send me an email and let’s chat.  I PROMISE you will have gorgeous images that will last FOREVER.