By Deborah Longmore Photography | Newborn Photography Tamworth & Birmingham
Choosing a newborn photographer is an exciting decision, but it’s also one that deserves careful thought. These early days with your baby are fleeting, and you want to ensure your photographer not only captures these moments beautifully but also safely. So how do you know you’re choosing the right one? So what to ask a newborn photographer? Here are the key questions you should be asking your newborn photographer before booking.
1. Are You Experienced in Newborn Photography?
This is very similar to How Long have you been a Newborn Photographer? and What Training do you have?
Newborn photography is a specialist field that requires much more than just camera skills. It involves working with delicate, tiny babies and understanding how to soothe, pose, and handle them safely. Ask how long they’ve been photographing newborns and what training or awards they have. Experience matters greatly when it comes to the safety and comfort of your little one.
Less experienced photographers will generally charge lower prices, it’s important to consider what that cost truly reflects. Often, less experienced photographers take on a high volume of sessions to compensate for lower rates, which can result in rushed shoots and minimal time spent on careful hand editing. Unlike seasoned professionals, they may lack the skills needed for safe, quality newborn posing or the experience to deliver consistently polished results. With newborn photography, expertise, patience, and post-processing are everything—and those elements come with experience.
2. What Safety Measures Do You Take During Sessions?
Safety should be the photographer’s top priority. From sanitising hands and props to never forcing a baby into uncomfortable poses, make sure your photographer is well-versed in newborn safety practices. You should feel confident and reassured that your baby is in safe, capable hands throughout the session.
Award-winning photographers have had their work carefully reviewed and judged by industry experts, often against hundreds or even thousands of entries. These accolades aren’t just about pretty pictures—they reflect skill, consistency, creativity, and most importantly, professionalism. When a photographer has won awards, it’s a strong indicator of their experience, attention to detail, and commitment to safe, high-quality newborn photography. It’s one more level of reassurance that your baby will be in experienced, capable hands.
3. Do You Use Composites for Complex Poses?
Some of the most beautiful newborn images you see—like baby holding their own head—are actually created using composites (two or more images merged together in editing). This ensures that baby is always supported and never placed in an unsafe position. A professional newborn photographer will always use safe techniques and digital editing to achieve these results.
4. What Is Included in Your Packages?
Not all photographers are created equal and this is the same for their packages. Make sure you understand exactly what’s included—such as session length, number of edited images, printed products, and digital downloads. Also ask if you’ll have the option to upgrade your package if you fall in love with more images (which you probably will!).
It’s also worth noting that some photographers may charge extra for including certain elements in your session, such as family or sibling images. While these moments are incredibly special and meaningful, not all packages automatically include them. Be sure to ask what’s covered in the session fee—some photographers include everything as standard, while others may have additional costs for specific setups, or more than sets, more time, or addtional add-ons. Understanding this upfront can help you choose the right photographer for your needs and avoid any unexpected fees later on.
5. How Long Does the Session Last?
Newborn sessions can take 2–3 hours depending on your baby’s needs, feeding, and settling time. A photographer who rushes through won’t capture the best of your baby. Look for someone who is flexible and patient, allowing plenty of time for feeding, cuddles, and natural breaks.
When choosing your newborn photographer, look for someone who doesn’t schedule multiple newborn sessions in a single day. Newborn photography requires time, patience, and a calm environment, and you don’t want your session to feel rushed if baby is a little tinker on the day. A photographer who limits themselves to one session per day is more likely to give you their full attention, work at your baby’s pace, and ensure the experience is relaxed and enjoyable. This also allows more flexibility if your baby needs extra time to settle or feed.
Whilst my sessions typically last between 2–3 hours, I always allow extra time if your baby needs it. Because I don’t book multiple sessions in a single day, I have the flexibility and leeway to go at your baby’s pace. Whether they need a little longer to settle, feed, or just have a cuddle, there’s no pressure or rush — just a calm, relaxed environment to capture those beautiful moments.
6. Do You Offer Styling and Props, or Should I Bring My Own?
Professional photographers usually provide a range of props, wraps, outfits, and styling options so you don’t need to worry about a thing. However, if you have something sentimental you’d like included (like a family heirloom or a special teddy), ask if that’s possible too. Personally, I love including special items within my sessions.
7. How Much Editing Do You Do?
Professional hand-editing is a huge part of what makes newborn photography so magical. Ask how much time your photographer spends editing each image, and whether they retouch baby acne, redness, or dry skin. Experienced photographers will delicately enhance your images while keeping them looking natural and true to life.
Cheaper photographers often need to take on a high volume of sessions to sustain their pricing, which can mean less time is dedicated to each individual client — especially when it comes to editing. Professional newborn photography requires careful, detailed post-processing to ensure the images are polished, safe-looking, and timeless. Rushed or minimal editing can result in uneven skin tones, missed distractions in the background, or unflattering lighting. Choosing a photographer who invests time into high-quality editing is key to receiving the beautiful, finished gallery your baby deserves.
8. Can I See Full Galleries From Past Sessions?
Anyone can show a handful of great images, but viewing a full gallery gives you a better idea of the photographer’s consistency, style, and what your full set of images might look like. Don’t be shy to ask!
I understand how important it is to know what to expect before booking your session, which is why I showcase example galleries on my website. These galleries give you a clear idea of my style, the variety of poses and setups I offer, and the level of editing you can expect from your final images. It’s a great way to see the consistency and quality of my work, helping you feel confident that you’re making the right choice for your baby’s first professional portraits.
9. Do You Have Insurance and Business Credentials?
A professional newborn photographer will be fully insured, operate legally, and have a client contract in place. This protects both you and the photographer and is a good sign you’re working with a professional.
10. How Far in Advance Should I Book?
Newborn photographers typically book out months in advance, especially those with a strong reputation. It’s best to secure your session during pregnancy (usually after your 20-week scan) to ensure availability. Sessions are often scheduled for around 5–14 days after birth.
I do, however, offer newborn sessions up to 10 weeks old for families who prefer to hold their session a little later. Whether your baby has spent some time in hospital, you’ve had a c-section, or you simply need a bit more time to adjust to life with your new arrival, I completely understand. My goal is to ensure the experience is as relaxed and stress-free as possible for both baby and parents.
The baby below was 9 weeks at her session
12. Do You Have Prep Session Guides?
A good newborn photographer should offer a detailed preparation guide ahead of your session. This helps you feel fully informed and ready—covering everything from what to bring, how to prepare baby, and what to expect during the shoot. It makes the whole experience smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
11. How Many Different Sets/Props Are Included?
When booking your newborn photographer, be sure to ask how many sets are included in your session. Some photographers offer 3 to 5 prop sets as standard and then offering posed beanbag poses, providing a lovely mix of wrapped poses, props, and different outfits to give you a variety of beautiful images. Others may only include 2 wrapped sets and then charge extra for any additional setups or outfit changes. Knowing this upfront helps you choose a package that fits your vision and budget, ensuring you get the range of photos you’re hoping for without unexpected costs.
Cheaper photographers often offer a more limited selection of props and setups, which can be due to their level of experience, budget or time constraints. A smaller variety of props might mean fewer creative options and less personalised styling for your session. Investing in a photographer with a well-stocked studio and a wide range of high-quality props ensures your newborn photos are unique, beautifully styled, and tailored to your preferences.
What To Ask A Newborn Photographer
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right newborn photographer is about more than just beautiful images—it’s about feeling confident that your baby is safe, comfortable, and well cared for. At Deborah Longmore Photography, I take pride in creating a relaxed, safe, and enjoyable experience for both parents and baby. From soft lighting to gentle posing and high-end editing, every detail matters.
If you’re looking for a trusted newborn photographer in Tamworth or Birmingham, I’d love to hear from you.
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I’d love to capture these precious moments for your family.
Book your newborn session in Tamworth or Birmingham today to enjoy these benefits firsthand
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