How do I choose the right newborn photographer for my newborn? Seattle Newborn Photos

There are a lot of talented Newborn Photographers in Seattle and each of them has their own strengths and talents. Here are a few tips on how to pick the best Newborn photographer for your new baby.

Step 1: What Style of Newborn Photography Are You Interested In?

Start by envisioning the kind of newborn photos you want. Do you want more posed newborn photography or more lifestyle newborn photography (that is what I do.) Knowing your preferred style can help you narrow down photographers who align with your vision. It is also really important to consider if you want in home or in studio. Browse portfolios, Instagram feeds, and websites to get a sense of their signature style – and see if it resonates with you.

Step 2: Research and Referrals

Ask fellow parents and friends for recommendations. Personal referrals are golden nuggets in the world of photography. Take to the internet, read reviews, and delve into photographers' websites. A well-crafted online presence often reflects a photographer's professionalism and dedication.

Step 3: Review Portfolios and Galleries

A picture is worth a thousand words, and a portfolio showcases a photographer's storytelling abilities. Dive into their previous work to understand how they capture those tiny fingers and sleepy yawns. Look for consistency, creativity, and the ability to evoke emotions through their photos.

Step 4: Experience and Expertise

Newborn photography is a specialized field that demands patience, safety, and expertise. You want to make extra sure that your photographer has plenty of experience working with newborn babies and that they make safety a priority. Do they know how to handle and pose babies safely? Are they familiar with creating a cozy and comfortable environment for your newborn? Are they experienced with working with toddlers and kiddos who will be part of the newborn photoshoot?

Step 5: Connection and Comfort

Your newborn photographer isn't just someone who clicks a camera – they're someone who captures your baby's first moments. It's essential to feel comfortable around them. Check out how they show up on their blog, about page, and Instagram feed to see if you think you will vibe with them. A positive connection can make the photoshoot more enjoyable and lead to more genuine moments captured.

Step 6: Transparency and Pricing

Understanding the photographer's pricing structure upfront is crucial. Does their pricing include digital images, prints, or albums? Are there any hidden costs? Transparent communication about costs and what you'll receive in return helps you make an informed decision.

Step 7: Availability and Timing

Babies come on their schedule, not ours. Check the photographer's availability around your due date and the weeks following it. Newborn photos are often taken within the first two weeks of life but it’s okay to do them later than that if you are going with a lifestyle photographer (ahem, me!)

Step 8: Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, trust your gut feeling. If a photographer checks all the boxes but something doesn't feel right, it's okay to keep searching. You want someone who respects your wishes, values, and understands the significance of these moments in your life.

Finding your newborn photographer is like finding a friend who captures the essence of your family's story. From defining your style to establishing a connection, each step is essential in the process. As you embark on this journey, remember that the right photographer can make the difference between just photos and treasured memories that transport you back to those fleeting, beautiful moments.

I hope you decide to work with me for your newborn photos. As a former NICU nurse and having had thirteen years of photography experience under my belt, I assure you that you will be in the best hands with me. Can't wait to meet you and your little one!

Seattle Newborn Photography In Home | How do I prepare for my in home Newborn Photoshoot?

So you have decided that you would like to have your newborn photoshoot in your home! Great choice by the way! 🤗 But now you are wondering how to prepare. In this article I will share with you what you need to do to prepare, even if you are having your in home newborn photoshoot with another photographer, these tips will help you have the absolute best newborn photography experience possible!

1. Schedule your photoshoot in the late morning.

I typically like to arrive at 10:00am. This is for a couple of reasons. For one, having had three newborns of my own AND having photographed hundreds if not thousands of newborns over the years, I know that babies are happier and more calm in the morning. They just are. A calm baby allows you to relax into the session but also allows me, the photographer to work faster so that you can get. back to what is really important, and that is bonding with your new baby.

Second reason I like to photograph newborns in the home in the late morning is because that is when the light is the best indoors. Again, after photographing thousands of newborns and having been just as many homes, I know that no matter what the light is best and most consistent late morning indoors.

2. Don’t spend a ton of time cleaning your house before I arrive! Yes, you heard me right.

Like I said, I have had three newborns of my own. I know how intense that newborn period is. I don’t want your photoshoot with me to cause you any kind of stress. When I arrive I will take a short walk through of your home and choose the few areas that we will take the photos. Then I can help you quickly tidy up and clear any clutter in that area. There is zero need for you to clean the whole house when we likely will only be on the master bed or the couch. Promise!

3. Gather any blankets, outfits, or special items before I arrive.

If you have anything special you would like to be included in the photoshoot, it’s best to get those together before I arrive. I recommend a securely fitted onesie in a neutral color and also neutral colored swaddle blankets. Newborns are small, they don’t photograph well in dresses, outfits with colors, or outfits with bold patterns or graphics. Simple is better.

I don’t bring any blankets or outfits. it is more hygienic to use your own blankets and the baby will be more cozy in something that smells like home.

4. If it is winter, turn up the thermostat to 70 degrees. If it is summer, i will likely close the windows to avoid drafts.

This one is obvious. Babies are happier in a warm environment.

5. Feed the baby and any other kiddos before I arrive.

This one is also obvious. Babies are happier with full bellies but so are toddlers and kiddos. Oh and parents too! I love to take breastfeeding and bottle feeding newborn photos so there is plenty of time for that too. But it’s nice to start out with a happy fed baby if possible.

That is all!! Your newborn photoshoot should not be stressful and it should not take all day. I will be in and out in under two hours and you will have a gallery full of photos to help you remember this very special time! I can’t wait to capture you and your family soon!

Seattle Maternity Photographer | Why a maternity photoshoot goes perfectly with a newborn photoshoot!

When we become pregnant we may fee like we don’t want photos taken of our changing bodies. But I am here to tell you that long past that pregnancy you will want to be able to reflect back and remember what that felt like.

A maternity photoshoot is the perfect compliment to your newborn photoshoot and here is why?

It allows me to get to know you before I come into your home for your newborn photos. This is especially important when you have toddlers or other children. This way I am not a stranger and it the newborn session will run more smoothly for the siblings.

It also makes for a lovely album. When you book your newborn and maternity shoot together we prepare an album for you that combines photos from both shoots. This album will make for a treasured keepsake that will last a lifetime.

A maternity photoshoot celebrates your changing body and your growing family!

It is fun to capture all the work your body is doing during pregnancy but also to capture your family as it is before the new baby arrives!

If you book your maternity and newborn photos together you get a 50% discount on your maternity photoshoot! So it’s a no brainer!

When should I book my newborn photos? Seattle Newborn Photographer

First off, congratulations! You are pregnant and entering into a very exciting time! OR maybe you already had the baby and are running on little sleep and baby snuggles! Either way, you are curious about when is the right time to book your newborn photoshoot!

I like to photograph babies within the first four weeks.

My style is natural and simple, however truth is, newborns change fast! So if you are up for it, it is best to try and have your newborn photos taken in the first month. This allows me to capture all the newborn details and moments.

When is the best time to reach out about a newborn photoshoot in the Seattle area?

If you can, contact me while you are pregnant. This allows me to hold a place in my calendar for your photoshoot. This also allows you the option to book a Maternity photo shoot as well! BUT if you don’t book while pregnant, no biggie, just contact me as soon as you think about it so we can get your session on the calendar.

Will siblings and family members be included during my newborn’s photoshoot?

YES! My style focuses on the entire family. I come into your home to capture your baby but also your family and the connection between family members.

Do you ever get booked up for newborn sessions?

Typically no! I always leave room in my schedule for newborn photoshoots!

Get To Know Elena S Blair Associate Seattle Family Lifestyle Photographer, Beth

Get To Know Elena S Blair Associate Seattle Family Photographer, Beth

Tell us a little about yourself:

Hello! I am so excited to be able to introduce myself to you! I am mom to 3 amazing humans. They are always inspiring me and challenging me to be my best self. I am recently engaged! I can’t wait to marry my love next summer. :) I am what they call an “introverted-extrovert”. I can be quiet and seem reserved when you first meet me (people have called me shy most of my life), but being around people fills me up. I love people and once you are one of my people you are there for good. I have a LOT of energy (ex college athlete here (soccer). You won’t find me sitting down much. I love kids and the chaos that comes with them:). I am a right brained dreamer and I love thinking about the possibilities life lays out sometimes very unexpectedly. I am an empath and I think that is in large part why I am so drawn to photographing people. My passion is showing my clients all of the beauty in their story.

Why do you love photographing families?

I love being able to help a family tell their story. Each one is so unique. Meeting families at any stage of their journey and being able to give them something to remember where they are at this time feels like such an honor.

What is your favorite type of location to capture a family and why?

I love to photograph families in their homes or in a special location that is familiar to them. When people are in a space that is comfortable they are more themselves. I find this particularly so with children. When kids are at ease and wanting to talk to me and show me things that are important to them, their personalities really come through in the images.

When did you become a photographer?

I started taking photographs when my ex-husband took a job in a state far away from family and friends. I was home raising our 3 babies and I wanted to document them and our life. I didn’t know until then that I was an artist. Having that camera and documenting us really brought something out in me that I didn’t know was there. After all of my children were a little older I began to take it more seriously and started taking classes and really learning and developing my style and abilities. In 2017 I decided to start my photography business.

Do you have any more session dates left on your fall calendar?

Yes! It is a busy time of year, but I do have session spots left. Weekdays or in home shoots (which are scheduled earlier in the day) are a great way to snag a spot on my schedule too. :)