Well, today is a gloomy and rainy day, making this pregnant momma sleepy, so what better thing to do than post a blog??
I recently attended a baby expo, where I met so many wonderful mommies to be and mommies who already had children. It was a great experience, where I hope to get to shoot some of these babes when they make their presence into the world. Many were very interested in getting newborn pictures and I was lucky to book a few, but many questioned my pricing, so I thought I would blog about it.
My newborn sessions are $200. To some this is a shock, but when you look into everything that is involved in a newborn session, you will see why they run higher than most. I don't set a time limit on my newborn sessions, giving the baby time to eat, burp, diapering, and lulling them into a squishy, sleepy state of mind. Most of my sessions run about 2 1/2-3 hours. This also allows for different set ups, prop usage, and posing time. I try to run a steady flow during my sessions, starting with the easiest and simplest posing, while they may still be just not sleepy enough, allowing them to get cozy and fall into that deep sleep needed for the more creative posing and props. Once I feel I have enough variety of pictures, the session ends. Most of the time, at this point, the baby is done. I then begin the task of editing. My goal during shooting is to get an almost perfect picture in camera, so all I have to do is fine tune in photoshop. With babies, this usually means making their skin less yellow, red, etc. Removing scratches, smoothing skin where needed, etc. This typically takes up to 2-3 weeks, I am also a pediatric RN, mommy to two kids, expecting another baby, and also working on my Master's degree.. whew... I am a perfectionist when it comes to editing, so I spend the hours when my children are at school editing and creating the best images possible. One picture can take anywhere from 10 mins up to 45 mins, depending on how much I need to clean up in the picture. I want to represent the very best of my work and create a timeless image for you to cherish for the rest of time.
This, my friends, is why my newborn sessions are priced where they are. When looking for a photographer, my best advice, is to book one based on the quality of their work. Remember, these images are ones you can never get back. I strive for sharp, clean images. My work reflects the time and energy I put into getting them. I don't believe that the best photographer is one who snaps and clicks and gives you a CD of 100 images. The time, passion, dedication is lost in this type of photography.
I hope you all have a wonderful week!
