Why Quality Newborn Photography Is Expensive and Why It Is Worth It
Newborn photography has become a popular trend in recent years, and many new parents are willing to pay a premium price for professional photography of their precious bundle of joy. However, some may question why newborn photography is so expensive. It’s true that thanks to todays technology everyone and their grandma has a smart phone capable of taking beautiful pictures. However, professional photography, especially newborn photography, is entirely different than any kind that you are able to take with your cell phone. It’s not just about pushing that shutter button, newborn photography is a craft in and of itself that takes safety training and so much practice to perfect the skill. It absolutely should not be DIY! Lets explore the reasons behind the high cost of newborn photography and why it is worth every penny.
The Skill and Experience of the Photographer
Capturing the perfect shot of a newborn requires a high level of skill and experience. A professional newborn photographer has spent years honing their craft and developing their unique style. They know how to pose a newborn safely and how to capture those precious moments that only last for a short time. This level of expertise comes at a cost, but it ensures that you will receive high-quality images that will last a lifetime while knowing your new babies safety is a priority. Running a full service studio is not the same as having a passion for photography as a hobby. There are costs associated with any business that most people dismiss when it comes to photography. As an example, lawyers have business costs, but also you tend to hire a lawyer for their knowledge, the years of experience they have. A new lawyer may charge a bit less while acquiring experience… the same may go for a experienced photographer. As a full service photographer, I also like to educate and be able to offer my clients, high quality products. A beautiful Album that will last a lifetime, that you and your child can look through for years to come, is so much sweeter than scrolling through them on your phone. Or having some gorgeous mounted prints of their sweet face, decorating your walls… what better art than the art that you literally grew and created!?
The Equipment Used
Professional photographers use top-of-the-line equipment to ensure that they capture the best possible images. They use high-end cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and props to create the perfect setting for each shot. This equipment is expensive to purchase and maintain, and it is essential for creating stunning images that will stand the test of time. Trends tend to change often as well. So to keep up with the demand of being trendy, we often have to be continuously buying new props and outfits. Tiny specially curated newborn props and such aren’t cheap for safe, quality products as well. That super cute, tiny newborn bed prop is often over $100, that beautiful wooden bowl- $80, each tiny headband is $12-$20 each… then there are the little outfits and wraps, back drops and more. It all adds up and most studio newborn photographers will spend thousands a year on just props! Us photographers tend to be prop addicts too lol.
Time and Effort Involved
A typical newborn photography session can last anywhere from two to four hours, depending on the baby’s temperament and the desired shots. During this time, the photographer will need to be patient and work around the baby’s schedule. We tend to spend many more hours culling and editing the images to ensure that they are perfect. In addition, there is a considerable amount of more time behind the scenes. I am a stickler for being sure I have a clean and sanitized area. Anything soiled even a little is washed, usually hand washed as the items tend to be very delicate. Backing up images, social media sneak peeks and advertising all take time as well. Even though I may have only 1-3 shoots a week.. I tend to work a good 6-7 full days a week sometimes. Sometimes my husband says he is jealous of photoshop and all the attention it gets. 😉 lol
Safety and Comfort of the Baby
Newborn Photo sessions requires a great deal of care and attention to ensure that the baby is safe and comfortable at all times. A professional photographer will know how to handle a newborn safely and will have the necessary skills to ensure that the baby is comfortable during the shoot. This level of care and attention is essential and is one of the many reasons why newborn photography is worth the investment. Understanding newborn cues of being too hot or cold… or if baby is having a gassy day, knowing how to properly pose a newborn, even if the pose looks simple, is so important for keeping baby safe. Often one beautiful picture is a composite of 2 or more images… but you would never know just by looking at the image.
The Importance of Capturing Memories
Your baby will only be a newborn once, and it is important to capture those precious moments before they pass by. Professional newborn photography provides you with a way to cherish those memories for years to come. These images will be treasured by you and your family, and they will serve as a beautiful reminder of your baby’s early days.
Conclusion
Newborn photography may seem expensive, but when you consider the level of skill, equipment, time, and effort involved, it is worth every penny. Professional newborn photography provides you with a way to capture those precious memories that will last a lifetime . As your baby grows to a child, teenager and into adulthood, your newborn photography will bring you back to where it all began—where your heart became so full it nearly exploded! Hiring a professional to capture moments like these are worth every penny because you have only one opportunity to get it right! Newborn photography needs to be captured when your baby is two weeks old or younger. Chances are, if you attempt DIY newborn photos and are unhappy with the outcome, you won’t have enough time to then hire a professional. It is an investment that you will never regret making.
I hope you will consider me to capture your sweetest memories. I look forward to meeting you in my photography Studio her in Prince George! Please do fill out a contact form to book your session or ask any questions you may have about your newborn photography session!
XO Rayven