You’re expecting a baby! Congratulations! You’ve dreamed of being a mother for so long you can’t even remember. It’s starting to sink in that you need a LOT of stuff. You’ll need diapers, a crib, clothes, a car seat, stroller, high chair, bouncy seat, a breast pump, bottles…the list goes on and on, right? Sure those items are essential and must-haves when you are getting ready to welcome your new bundle into the world. But do you know what I feel is equally or actually, even MORE essential? Hiring a professional photographer to capture your baby’s first days just shortly after their arrival. You might ask “why?” You have the newest phone and even Aunt Susan has a “nice camera” she could take a few photos for you right? Well, sure. Those are definitely options and are great for everyday captures. But your sweet baby’s memories that you look back on when they are graduating high school or getting married…trust me you will NEVER regret having professional portraits of your newborn done. Professional photography is an investment that truthfully lasts a LIFETIME! The crib with be sold in a garage sale in a couple years and the diapers…well, we know where those end up!

So, you’re considering hiring a professional photographer it but the cost…the time…is it worth it? 1,000,000% YES! You definitely will be exhausted just shortly after baby’s arrival but that’s where I come in!

Each session with me is a completely customized session and I provide everything…that is except the baby! Ha! No, but really I try to make things as easy as possible on new parents and provide everything for your session! Headbands, wraps, boxes, bowls, furs, and bonnets, I have acquired a ton of goodies that we can use during your session over the years. Many times, I peek back at the parents during the photography session and the dads are snoring and mom is half asleep as well! I take care of everything and your baby’s safety at the session is my number one concern. You are comfortably situated just a few feet from your baby during the entire session and get to watch me work my magic as the newborn whisperer!

So how does it work when you decide you are interested in a session and when should you book? After all, many times you don’t know when your little one will arrive. I always recommend to reach out to me via email or phone so we can chat about everything! I will go over packages and pricing, how I do things, and what I offer!

It is best to go ahead and reserve your session date while pregnant! I will jot down your due date, but we won’t choose the actual session date and time until just shortly after baby’s arrival. I try to get them in around the 10-14 day old mark.

When considering who to hire to document such a precious, once in a lifetime moment, I can make a couple of recommendations. First, look at the photographers experience. How long have they been perfecting their craft? Is newborn safety at the top of their priorities? As for me, I have been a professional photographer for 13 years. I can’t believe it’s been that long! I have taken several courses over the years to perfect my craft and your baby’s safety is ALWAYS my priority.

Also, take a look at their portfolio of images from recent sessions. Do you like how they capture the new babies and the colors they use? Do you like their style? Check out their Instagram posts or their website to view their portfolio and make sure you are drawn to their particular style!

There truly are so many things to consider, but lastly, for this post, take a few minutes and reach out to them via phone or email. Ask any questions you have and get a feel for the person you are looking at hiring! Do you like their personality and feel like you would enjoy your time and experience with them?

Obviously, this is just a recommendation of a few things to consider! I’d be completely honored to work with you and visit with you about your very own newborn photography session. Let’s chat today! Email me at aprilstoutphoto@gmail.com or feel free to phone me at 918-381-2816. I look forward to hearing from you!