6 Common Misconceptions About Newborn Photography

For new and expectant parents, or for those who have never hired a newborn photographer before, it is only natural that you would have questions, concerns, and your own ideas about what these portrait experiences look like. As a seasoned newborn photographer in Jacksonville, Florida, parents often come to me to ask their questions and share their thoughts. Through these conversations, I have found there to be a LOT of myths about newborn photography floating around. Here I will address some of the most common misconceptions I have encountered and why they are absolutely untrue when it comes to working with EEP!

Misconception #1 – A professional newborn photographer MUST have a commercial studio space.

Yes, some photographers choose to have a beautifully decorated studio, but not all. I, for one, choose to bring the studio directly to my clients, allowing me to serve families all over Northeast Florida. This specialty service provides tired new parents with the ability to stay in the comfort of their own home throughout the session. Further, this gives us the option to incorporate lifestyle family imagery into your gallery if you so choose.

Misconception #2 – Studio flashes will be harmful to my baby’s eyes.

This one is often questioned, but completely false. Let me explain why. For one, my light actually flashes in the opposite direction of baby’s face and is bounced back onto them with a giant reflecting umbrella. Second, I am able to control the strength of my light and keep it on a very low setting. Beautiful natural light is not always available… just ask any Floridian during our rainy season! The studio light simply allows me to create and control my own sunshine. 

Misconception #3 – Since I don’t know exactly when my baby will arrive, I should wait until he or she is born to book my session.

Newborn photographers are often booked up months in advance! If you wait until after you are already settled in back at home with your baby, you risk your favorite photographer not being available. Personally, I only take a certain number of newborn clients a month. This ensures flexibility in my schedule for whenever those babies decide to make their grand debut. Most photographers, like myself, certainly try to fit in last minute bookings when able, but I highly recommend booking your session sometime during your second trimester to guarantee a spot on the calendar.

Misconception #4 – In home newborn sessions should be less expensive because the photographer is not paying for a studio space.

It takes a whole lot of time and energy to drive to and from your home, setup and tear down, pack and unpack and pack and unpack again. By doing the heavy lifting for the day, in-home newborn photographers are also saving you precious time and energy. Remember, this is a luxury service!

Misconception #5 – I will need to buy lots of props and accessories for my baby’s photos.

Not at all! The bonnets, headbands, wraps/swaddles, posing blankets, buckets, etc… I’ve got you covered. If you have a prop that you love, we can certainly incorporate it into your session, but do not feel like you need to go out and purchase anything. I have everything we need to perfectly style your newborn’s portraits! If the photographer you are inquiring with requires you to supply all of these items, you may want to seriously consider finding someone else to work with.

Misconception #6 – I need to make my home perfectly organized and spotless before my photographer arrives.

Girl, please! I am a mom of 3 and I get it! Do NOT run around trying to make everything tidy and clean before I arrive. Leave the dishes in the sink and the baby paraphernalia lay where it is. It won’t bother me. And if you’ve chosen to incorporate lifestyle images into your session, I can easily move any bits of clutter out of the way. Easy peasy.

Don’t let these common myths about newborn photography stop you from having your baby’s precious and fleeting newborn stage captured.

Have more questions or concerns that you need answered before booking your newborn session? Learn more about my newborn portrait experience or contact me today and let’s chat! I’m an open book!

Erin of Erin Elyse Photography is an Atlantic Beach in-home studio Newborn Photographer in Northeast Florida. Erin specializes in beautifully capturing your timeless memories and turning them into luxurious works of art. Also serving the families of Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, St. Augustine, Riverside, San Marco, Nocatee, Mandarin, Fleming Island and the surrounding areas of Northeast Florida.