San Diego Newborn Photographer | Tips
As a San Diego newborn photographer, I am frequently asked about the process of newborn photos. There are so many types of photographers in the San Diego area with a range of different aesthetics, so it’s important to know how to search for the look you want. With this in mind, I’ve compiled a few tips for new parents looking for the perfect fit for their San Diego Newborn photographer.
Tip 1 | Know The Style You Want
First off, you’ll notice some photographers, like myself, do not do the “baby in a basket” approach. If that’s what you want, that’s GREAT, but my approach is very organic and raw. I prefer to come into the clients’ home and capture the new bond you’re forming with your bundle of joy. This particular approach is Lifestyle Newborn Photography.
Moreover, if this organic look is what you’re seeking, ensure to search for a San Diego lifestyle newborn photographer for your in-home newborn session. If you end up on a site with a ton of studio props, you may not receive the lifestyle look you’re searching for.
Tip 2 | Ask About Props
If you love the look of props, but don’t see a heavy use of props on the photographer’s website, be sure to ask the photographer before you book them. Be open, explain to them exactly what you want. If they cannot provide you with this look, they will oftentimes refer you to someone who can.
Tip 3 | Book In Advance
San Diego Newborn Photographers definitely understand that birth dates are rarely accurate. It’s better to book in advance and have it on our radar, than a last minute shoot pop up! Likewise, ask your photographer how old they prefer your baby to be when they do the session? Ask them about time of day they prefer to shoot, and send them photos of your nursery and bedroom. I am always very open with my clients about colors and lighting. If you have a dark navy or bright green nursery, your photos will not match the photos of my Instagram feed. Make sure your photographer manages expectations like this so you aren’t let down.
My best in-home sessions happen when there are neutral color palettes to prevent color casts and wonky white balances, light walls, and clean decor. Remove everything from your bedside tables that isn’t a necessary decoration. The simpler, the better. If I’m unsure of lighting conditions, I’m going to let you know as we are shooting that certain photos may need to be delivered in black and white only.
Meet Baby Stellan
Baby Stellan is the perfect example of an ideal lifestyle session for me! I was so excited to meet him, after photographing his parents’ anniversary session a few years ago. He was a feisty little man for our shoot, and he refused to go to sleep. With lifestyle sessions, we embrace these little moments, and I love the photos of him with his eyes open!
When all of our attempts failed, we then took some photos of Zak rocking Stellan to sleep. I always love capturing one on one father-son time.
Stellan finally decided to close those baby blues and it was time to go to town. During each session, I try to capture every little detail. Babies don’t keep so we get them all! Eyes, feet, toes, little pouty lips.. you name it!
The Nursery is super important to capture as well! Stellan has been crashing with mom and dad for the time being, but I still wanted to grab some shots of his nursery/guest bedroom. I especially love the constellation sky they had printed the day he was born. These neutral colors have my heart, and I’m super jealous of the amazing glider chair steal they found at Homegoods. I’ve been looking for one of my own as a reading chair, so if you see neutral linen gliders in San Diego, holler at your girl! 😉
Last time we took photos we included their two rescue pups, Coco and Pepper, so naturally we had to capture some snuggle time with their new brother.
And because grandma was the real MVP behind the scenes who was actually responsible for getting Stellan into a deep sleep, we couldn’t forget her as well. It was so great working with Monica, Zak, Stellan, and the pups again and I can’t wait to watch Stellan grow!
Did you like this blog post and want to see similar work?
You can view the Bailey Family, and read their story by clicking the image below, or click here for San Diego Family Photos!Â
Check out recent work and daily life on Instagram: @mandyfordphotography, and to view recent family portraits on the Mandy Ford Blog, click here.
To inquire about services, please Contact Mandy here.
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