Are you an expectant parent looking to capture those precious moments with your newborn? Look no further! In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best newborn photography packages. From understanding your photographer options to selecting the perfect package for your needs, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and make sure you have the best photos of your little one to cherish forever!

Understanding Your Photographer Options

Choosing who snaps those adorable pics of your bundle of joy is a big deal! Think of it like picking a superhero for your baby’s first photoshoot. You've got two main teams to pick from: Team Pro and Team Amateur. Team Pro photographers come with a magic bag of skills, ready to capture every cute yawn and stretch. They know all about the perfect angles and lighting to make your little star shine. Most importantly, they have extensive safety training. The person you choose will be handling your baby for 3 to 4 hours. You want them to know what they are doing, right?

On the other side, Team Amateur might be newer to the game but don't count them out! They often offer creativity and enthusiasm with a smaller price tag. Just be sure they have been safety trained and definitely ask for references. If they have a mentor, call them to find out what their true skill level is.

A third option is being a model for an established newborn photographer who teaches a lot of workshops. In these cases, the experienced photographer is there the whole time while students practice. You usually get great images taken by the pro in exchange for your time. These kinds of options are limited. But if you are early enough, you can look around  your area  and make some inquiries.

The secret sauce? Doing a bit of detective work! Peek at their portfolios, check out reviews from other parents, and have a chat to get a feel for their vibe. Remember, whether they're a seasoned pro or an eager newbie, you want someone who gets the Awws and Oohs, making the photoshoot fun and stress-free. So, take your time, weigh your options, and choose the best fit for your family's once-in-a-lifetime snaps. It's all about capturing those fleeting moments with love and a little bit of photo magic!

Location, Location, Location: Studio Vs. In-Home Sessions

Choosing where to capture your baby's debut in photos is like picking the setting for their very first adventure. Picture this: a cozy studio, decked out with all sorts of props and perfect lighting. It's a wonderland where every shot is just right. Studios are like the pro playgrounds for photographers, where they make the magic happen under the perfect conditions.

But then, there's the comfort of your own home. Imagine snuggling up in your favorite nook, surrounded by all things familiar and dear. Home sessions are all about capturing those genuine, heartwarming moments in the spaces where you feel most 'you.' It's your baby's first hello to the family nest, with every photo oozing the warmth and love of home.

You can also have a photographer come to your home for posed photos. They have to bring quite a bit of equipment with them, so you need at least a 12 x 12 space in your home for them to work in. In-home posed photos are an option, but there are limitations. Often, the lighting is not as soft as it can be in a full studio. It is a bit of a trade off. For the convenience of doing them in your home with travel sized equipment, you give up some polish.

So, what's it gonna be? The polished charm of the studio or the sweet, intimate vibes of your home? Think about the kind of story you want these photos to tell. Whether you lean towards the sparkle of the studio or the heartfelt simplicity of home, both settings have their own kind of magic. Just choose the stage where you think your little star will shine the brightest!

Types of Images: Candid or Posed?

Snap or Pose? That's the question! Candid shots are like sneaky little peeks into your baby's world. They catch those gummy smiles, dreamy snoozes, and even those funny faces they make when they're sleeping. It's all about the natural, unscripted moments that make you go, "Aww!"  Natural or Life-style images have their own charm. But what they miss is showing some of the amazing features of a newborn. When a baby is being held in each image, or is photographed in their bassinet, certain details like how they can curl, the beauty of their little bodies, can be overlooked. This is why posed newborn photography can be so popular.

On the flip side, posed shots are where you get to doll up your munchkin in cute outfits and place them in adorable positions. The poses are designed to feature elements of your baby that you cannot underscore on your own. You need an experienced pro who has been trained.

Think baby in a basket, snuggled in blankets, or wearing tiny hats. These shots are all about creating those picture-perfect moments that everyone goes gaga over. Not every newborn photographer offers posed, studio imagery. Be sure you know.

Package Options: Edited with Prints Only

Imagine holding a photo of your tiny tot’s first smile. That’s what you get with “Edited with Prints Only” packages. Think of it as your baby’s debut album, filled with glossy or matte memories you can touch and feel. It’s old-school cool meets newborn chic. These packages let the pros do their thing—making each picture pop before printing them out for you. No need to worry about pixels or storage space. Just pure, frame-ready joy. Whether it's for hanging on the wall, sticking on the fridge, or gifting to grandparents, these tangible treasures turn moments into keepsakes. So, if you're all about that hands-on happiness, this one's for you. Keep it simple, keep it real, and let those printed gems tell the story of your little one's first big adventure.

Digital Delights: Edited Digitals and Prints

Ready for a mix of modern and classic? Say hello to the "Edited Digitals and Prints" package! This is like having your cake and eating it too. You get the snazzy digital photos for sharing with friends and family all over the world, plus gorgeous prints to fill your home with joy. It's a win-win!

Think of digital photos as your go-to for quick shares and screensavers. Want to show off your cutie's latest photoshoot on social media? Done! And those prints? They're perfect for decorating your walls, desks, and anywhere you need a smile. Imagine walking into a room and seeing your little one's face shining back at you. Pure happiness!

With this package, you're not choosing between digital and print. You're getting both! It's like a photo party, and everyone's invited. Share the love online, then cuddle up with those beautiful prints at home. Each photo tells a story, a story that's uniquely yours.

So, dive into the "Edited Digitals and Prints" package. It’s like keeping your memories in your pocket and on your walls. Double the fun, double the memories!

Flexibility with Print Credits

Picture this: You've had an amazing photoshoot, and now it's time to bring those adorable snapshots into the real world. But wait, there's a cherry on top! Some newborn photography packages come with what's called print credits. Think of print credits like magical photography currency that lets you pick and choose the prints you adore the most. It’s like going on a shopping spree, but instead of clothes, you're filling your cart with precious moments of your little one!

Here’s the deal: Not all memories are created equal. Some you’ll want to blow up big and bold for the living room wall, and others might find a cozy spot in your wallet. With print credits, you’re the boss. You decide which moments make the cut and how you want to cherish them. Want a giant canvas of baby's first smile? You got it! Prefer a dainty set of prints to mail to the grandparents? No problem!

The best part? No surprises. You get to budget your credits however you see fit, ensuring you're only choosing what truly speaks to your heart. It's all about mixing, matching, and making those memories tangible in a way that fits your vibe.

So, dive into the delightful world of print credits. It’s your opportunity to play photo editor, curating a collection that's as unique as your new little star. Mix, match, and marvel at the flexibility at your fingertips. After all, when it comes to capturing these fleeting moments, it's all about creating happiness that lasts a lifetime. Now, isn't that something worth smiling about?

Build Your Own Collection

Ready to wear the creative hat for your baby's photoshoot? Building your own collection is like playing mix-and-match with memories! This is your chance to call the shots and tailor everything to be just perfect for you and your mini-me. Think of it as the ultimate DIY project, but with way cuter outcomes.

Start with the basics. Want all the digital snaps to flood your phone and socials? Add 'em in. Dreaming of a wall filled with beautiful prints? Let's do it. Can't decide between a cozy home shoot or a fancy studio setup? Why not a pinch of both?

Next up, throw in the extras. Love the idea of a mini album for the coffee table? Consider it done. Fancy some print credits for flexibility? You’ve got it. The beauty here is that there’s no one-size-fits-all. It’s all about what makes your heart sing.

And don’t forget the fun bits! Add props, pick themes, or even choose outfits that make your baby the star of their own adorable show. This is your playground, and every choice adds a splash of color to the story you’re telling.

The best part? You’re in control. No settling for pre-made packages that don’t quite fit. Every decision is yours, making this collection as unique as your new little bundle of joy.

So, dive into the delightful task of building your own collection. It’s more than just selecting photos; it’s crafting the first chapter of your baby’s story. Piece by piece, you’ll create something that’s not just beautiful but deeply personal. After all, these aren’t just pictures; they’re the start of a journey. And what could be more exciting than that? Happy creating!

The Telephone Collection

The telephone collection is the one you can often get when you take 10 minutes to call a potential photographer on the phone. Yes, it’s OG, but it still works. This way you can find out what other options are available (and there is almost always more than on a photographer’s website). So get on the horn. Have a chat. Find out. Like anything, the more effort you put into your baby’s newborn session, the better you will like the results.

You may also like to read, Why Is Los Angeles Newborn Photography So Pricey?

Panos Productions Photography is owned and operated by Katie. She is an experienced pregancy and newborn photographer. Her studio is in the Glendale area. Serving expecting moms and new moms in Los Angeles, Glendale, Burbank, North Hollywood, Pasadena, Altadena, Monrovia, South Bay, Torrance, San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley, Santa Clarita and more. Book your session today