Questions you Should Ask Your Newborn Photographer
1. How many years have you been working as a newborn photographer?
I have been a professional photographer for 9 years but I discovered my passion for newborn photography about 2 years ago.
2. Have you received any newborn specific posing training and with whom did you train?
I have taken newborn posing training in person with Lizzy McMillan of Momento Studios - APNPI Qualified Newborn Photographer, PPA Certified Professional Photographer, and APNPI Ambassador.
3. What are the safety practices you have in place in your studio specifically geared towards the newborn client?
Safety of the baby is my number one priority even more important than capturing beautiful photos. For that reason, I use the following safety practices, among others to keep your baby safe.
- I practice safe posing using composite images when posing babies in risky positions as well as having someone with arms reach of baby at all times.
- Keeping the studio at a safe temperature where baby is not cold but is also not at risk for overheating.
- All props and blankets are cleaned and sanitized between sessions.
- Ensuring baby does not show any signs of central cyanosis during any poses - the bluish discoloration around the core, lips and tongue which can be quite dangerous.
- Frequent hand washing and sanitization.
- Proper insurance to protect you in the event of any accidents.
- I am always continuing my education to stay current with the latest developments, skills, and new safety practices for newborn photographers.
4. Will my newborn be supported by human hands in all upright positions as well as any poses requiring suspension?
Yes. Your newborn is supported by human hands at ALL TIMES throughout risky poses. This ensures that babies will not be at risk of falls, central cyanosis or positional asphyxiation.
5. Do you work with an assistant or provide spotters at your newborn sessions? If not, will you allow me to spot my baby during a session?
If I do not have an assistant available, I will always have a parent spotting baby. Either myself or a spotter are within arms reach at most at all times.
6. What will happen in the case of illness, your own or otherwise?
It is not safe for baby to be around any people who are ill. If any family members are sick, I would ask that they not be present at the session. If I become sick myself, your session will be rescheduled to ensure that baby is not at risk of exposure.
7. Are you currently up to date on the necessary vaccines needed when working with a pregnant or newborn population?
Vaccinations are a very personal choice but as a newborn photographer, I feel it is important to always have the flu vaccine and the whooping cough vaccine (called Tdap) to ensure I do not expose mommas or babies to these very contagious illnesses.
8. Can you point me towards online resources from which I can learn about safe practices when photographing newborns?
The Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International is leading the way in research and education for newborn photography safety. Their website has some invaluable resources for Parents: https://apnpi.com/newborn_safety/
9. Are you a member of an organization or association directly servicing newborn photographers and their educational needs?
I am a member of Wedding and Portrait Photographers International (WPPI) and I am currently working on becoming accredited with the Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International (APNPI).
Questions courtesy of APNPI.
