Finding just any photographer in the Pittsburgh area is easy. But finding a qualified and experienced newborn photographer to capture those early days of your precious baby may take more effort. In this media-loving world with easier access than ever to high-quality photos and those who love taking them, there is no shortage of options when it comes to professional newborn photographers in and around Pittsburgh. So where do you start in choosing one? Here are some tips to help narrow down your choices:

1. Make a list of what you want to achieve in your newborn photo session

A great way to streamline your search is to start by jotting down a quick bullet point list of everything you’re looking for in a newborn photographer. You obviously know that you want high quality photographs of your newborn, but you may not be aware of some of your own internal criteria until you take a minute to write down what you want.

It can be easy to focus your search on the style of photos you like while forgetting how important it will feel to have a comfortable experience for you and your babe during the photoshoot itself. Do you prefer the ease of going to a studio where everything is already cleaned and all set up for you? Or does the comfort of your own home and no transitions in and out of the car sound more appealing? Have clarity on what you want and your search will be a lot more efficient. 

2. Do a search

Perhaps the most tried and true way of finding a good newborn photographer is by asking for referrals from your personal connections – family, friends, coworkers, social media acquaintances, etc. You could also do a google search for newborn photographers in Greensburg, or even search social media through hashtags and location functions. 

3. Check their website

A qualified and experienced newborn photographer will have a professional and updated website. Browse their portfolio and read the About page, Bio, or FAQS, gathering as much information as you can about them as a photographer to see if they are the right pick for you and your baby. Some photographers have their own studios while others are happy to meet at any location you choose, and still others will come to your house if you prefer! 

4. Read reviews and testimonials

Reviews can be helpful to identify any potential red flags or to determine that the photographer you’re researching really is a great choice. Testimonials (usually found on the photographer’s website) are also great to get more specifics about what is so great about that photographer.

5. Ask about their training

The world of professional photography is pretty unregulated when it comes to required education or certification. While no formal training is required for any type of photography, there are certifications photographers can earn, workshops they can attend, and courses they can take to further their knowledge of their field and make the experience that much better for their clients. It is not always necessary to find a photographer with this kind of training, but unlike other photography niches, newborn photography is one area where it is an extremely good idea to make sure you are hiring someone with some kind of certification or training.

Handling such fragile little humans and putting them in the various poses that make for such adorable photos requires knowledge, skill, and extra attentive care, so it’s important for safety purposes to be selective when choosing a newborn photographer. This could also help ensure that you as a new parent and your baby are getting the best care during such early and vulnerable days. You’ll want a photographer who has either direct or indirect experience (through training) with the complexities of newborn/postpartum life to anticipate needs and make things as low-stress as possible. 

6. Ask questions

Once you have your search narrowed to your top few picks, contact each photographer to ask any remaining questions you may have and to experience actually interacting with them. Don’t feel pressured to commit to the first photographer you talk to. You can make the process as thorough or as quick as you want and as fits your needs, but it never hurts to send a message with some questions to a few photographers you’re interested in. You may want to ask about particular accommodations you may need like extra time to feed your baby or what to do if your baby is colicky. A reputable newborn photographer will know what to expect and how to accommodate the various needs of an unpredictable new baby before, during, and after the photoshoot.

A qualified and experienced newborn photographer will provide so much more than photos of your baby. They will serve as someone who understands the extra needs that a newborn and newly postpartum mother will have, and they will be able to provide a unique level of service, accommodations, and compassion to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Taking the time to do a little extra research and find a qualified newborn photographer who is right for you can make all the difference in your experience and the end result!

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To read more about the benefits in hiring a professional photographer, check out this post from a Professional Minneapolis Photographer I recently discovered who does excellent work!

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Hi, I’m Tracy and I’d love to be considered for your maternity and newborn portrait sessions! I have received training from several newborn photographers (including one of the top photographers in the country, none other than Ana Brandt!) to perfect my safety and posing skills in the studio, so you can trust that your precious bundle is always safe with me. Reach out and let’s chat!