Tips on Finding the Perfect Newborn Photographer in Pittsburgh

It’s been a while since I’ve shared about newborn sessions, so I thought I’d offer some helpful tips for finding the perfect newborn photographer. If you’ve stumbled across my blog, maybe it was the images that brought you here—welcome!

Finding the perfect newborn photographer for your family can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to guide you with some tips to make the process easier. If you’re loving the style of my newborn gallery or the photos in this post, you’ve probably noticed that I’m a lifestyle-only newborn photographer. This means I focus on capturing natural, in-the-moment, documentary-style photos. However, it’s called “lifestyle” because I do give some direction during the session, and I also include a few simple shots of just the baby, but in a way that feels authentic and relaxed.

If your heart is set on a style with more posed, intricate setups and props (think sleepy babies wrapped in blankets or curled up on tiny beds), then you’re looking for a “posed newborn photographer.” If that’s the case, I’m happy to provide recommendations for some wonderful photographers who specialize in that style.

Let’s dive into more tips for finding the perfect newborn photographer for your family, and what you should know before booking!

Deciding Between Posed vs. Lifestyle Newborn Photography

If you’ve found your way here, maybe it was the images that caught your attention. If you love the style of my newborn gallery, you’re in the right place. I specialize in lifestyle newborn photography, which means I focus on more candid, documentary-style photos. While I do guide the session, the goal is to capture natural, in-the-moment moments with your baby and family.

If you’re looking for something more posed, with fewer shots of parents involved, you might want to search for a photographer who specializes in posed newborn sessions. Not to worry—if that’s your style, I’m happy to give recommendations!

If you’d like to dive deeper into the differences between these two styles, check out this blog post.

Tips for Finding the Right Newborn Photographer for You

You may be asking, “How do I even begin to look for the best newborn photographer for me?” Here are some tips to help you get started:

Does Style Match the Photographers?

Once you’ve narrowed down a few photographers, make sure their style matches what you envision. Reach out to ask about pricing and make sure they are upfront about your total investment. Is the pricing within your budget? If you’re still unsure, schedule a phone call. It’s important to vibe with the photographer, so trust your instincts during the conversation.ing, as I think it’s important to vibe with the person who’s going to be documenting these once-in-a-lifetime memories!

Research & Review the Newborn Photographers Portfolio: 

Do some research online and ask for recommendations. Once you’ve gathered a list of photographers, browse their portfolios and blog posts to see full sessions. It’s crucial to make sure the photographer’s work is consistent in style, editing, and quality. Look for photos that evoke the emotions you want to remember from this special time in your life.

The Perfect Time to Schedule Your Newborn Photos

As a lifestyle newborn photographer, I tend to do most of my newborn sessions within the first month. While some photographers may have a tighter window for posed shots, I like families to have enough time to settle into their new routine without feeling rushed. Around one month, babies start to become more awake and less “sleepy newborn,” which can make capturing those pure, peaceful moments a bit trickier.

Of course, life doesn’t always follow our plans, so talk to your photographer about flexibility and how they handle schedule changes. If you’re more interested in capturing your baby at a later stage, say 3 or 6 months, talk to your photographer about what might be the best fit for you.

What to Expect During a Newborn Photography Session

Here’s what you can expect during a typical newborn session with me:

Working with Siblings: If you have toddlers or older kids involved in your session, you may want to chat with them beforehand about what to expect. It’s helpful to show them some photos on my website, so they know what it looks like to snuggle with their new sibling. Don’t pressure them into doing something they’re not comfortable with—it’s all about capturing the moment in a relaxed way. While I’m not advocating for bribery, it’s not unheard of to have a little incentive (like a special toy) to encourage great behavior by the end of the session.

Relaxed and Baby-Led: Every baby is different! Some newborns sleep through the entire session, while others need breaks for feeding and cuddling. I try to keep the session relaxed and comfortable for everyone involved. Typically, my sessions last about 90 minutes, but if your baby is being fussy, I’ll happily stay longer to make sure we get the perfect shots.

Why Choosing the Right Photographer Matters

I’m writing this as I prepare to send my kid off to college, and I can tell you—those 18 years since he was a newborn have flown by in the blink of an eye. It’s a reminder of how important it is to capture those fleeting moments.

Choosing a newborn photographer is an investment in memories, heirlooms, and moments you’ll never get back. It’s not just about taking photos; it’s about preserving those moments for the future. That’s why I’m passionate about lifestyle newborn photography. It’s authentic and timeless. You don’t want overly trendy or filtered images that will look dated in a few years—choose a photographer who stays true to capturing real life in its most beautiful form.

Conclusion: Let’s Create Perfect Memories Together

Choosing the perfect newborn photographer is about more than just getting photos—it’s about finding someone who understands your vision and can capture the authentic moments of your family’s story. Whether you’re drawn to posed or lifestyle newborn photography, take the time to find the photographer that feels like the right fit for you.

If you’d like to learn more or book a session with me, I’d love to chat! Let’s create images you’ll treasure forever. xo, Taryn