
Choosing a photographer to capture your most cherished moments—whether it’s your pregnancy, your newborn’s first days, or a special family milestone—is a big decision.
Photography is not just about snapping pictures; it’s about creating timeless memories and investing in your key moments in life, ones that will be treasured for generations. Here are some essential factors to consider when selecting a photographer and common pitfalls to avoid.
1. Consider your preferred style:
Every photographer has a unique style, and it’s important to choose one that aligns with your preferences. Some photographers, like myself, are able to provide various styles and can tailor their approach to suit your preferences but you will still find that some go for a dreamy posed soft style, others go for natural unposed style, and some like myself, find a balance between the two.
We find that some client's like to screen shot some style's they like and send in advance or show us on the day of thier session, others verbalise their preferences, and some leave it to evolve naturally throughout the session. There is no right or wrong answer, it's totally your preference, but we are of the view that sessions should be baby led, if a baby isnt comfortable with something, it shouldn't be pushed, and actually we feel it is best to embrace their unique preferences, for example, i might position a baby, but they keep putting their foot or arm out, they don't want it tucked in, this is something true to them, and i think it should be captured just as much as the posed, if not more, as it contains an element of their personality, the same can be said if they don't want to sleep, that is ok for us, it provides opportunity to capture a first glimpse at thier character.
How to Evaluate Style:
Browse the photographer’s portfolio on their website and/or social media.
Look for consistency in quality and a style that resonates with you.
Ask yourself: Do I prefer dreamy, soft images or a natural, minimal editing style? Do I want themed images or something that is simple and timeless?

2. Be Wary of Prices That Seem Too Good to Be True
Photography is an investment, and quality service comes at a fair price. Low-cost sessions or free photoshoot giveaways often come with hidden costs or compromises. Be aware of hidden expenses, such as additional costs for including family shots during your newborn session, which may not be mentioned upfront.
Red Flags to Watch For:
Competitions where "everyone is a winner"—often a tactic to generate leads. They won't tell you everyone is a winner, instead it will go something along the lines of "We are giving away a photoshoot worth XXX, enter your details for a chance to win" Then everyone get's an email saying they have won something. It often run's in line with the same photographers who are not transparent about their prices, you end up attending the session for your free included XXX and then you are hit with an unexpected bill for more photos.
Others are little more obvious and will say " we are giving away 20 sessions" That most likely is their full quota of sessions for the month.
"Free sessions" If someone is offering a free session, keep in mind that they could be new and inexperienced, and/or you may find its a tactic to get you booked in. Ask for the cost of physical products afterwards if this is something you opt to consider.
Access to digitals only when you spend XXX - We live in a digital era, if you know you will want to put your images on your phone, share them with family friends, ensure the photographer you chooses doesn't use digitals as a way to leverage higher sales, for example some will say "if you spend XXXX then we will sell you the digitals for XXX"
Tip:Â A professional photographer will be transparent about pricing, package details, and what to expect from your session.

3. Check for Transparency and Clear Communication
A reputable photographer values honesty and clarity. Before booking, you should have all the information you need to make an informed decision.
What to Expect from a Trustworthy Photographer:
Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
Detailed service descriptions, available on their website or shared openly.
A willingness to answer questions and provide guidance.
Tip:Â Beware of vague pricing structures or photographers who avoid discussing costs until after your session.

4. Prioritize Experience and Credentials
Experience matters, especially when it comes to newborn and maternity photography, where safety, posing techniques, and patience are crucial. Read google reviews for better insight into others' experiences.
Questions to Ask:
How many years of experience do they have?
What reviews and testimonials do past clients share?
Tip:Â A degree in photography, genuine awards or professional memberships, often demonstrates a higher level of commitment and expertise.

5. Consider the Full Experience
Photography is more than just the final images. The experience from start to finish should be enjoyable, you should be put at ease, and the session should be personalised.
What to Look For:
Support and guidance in preparing for your session.
Access to props, wardrobe guidance, and styling tips.
A clear post-session process for reviewing and purchasing images.
Tip: If a photographer emphasizes tailoring the session to your story/preferences, you’re more likely to enjoy both the process and the results.

6. Watch Out for Quantity Over Quality
When it comes to photography, quality always trumps quantity. Receiving 150 poorly photographed, edited or rushed images is worth far less than a gallery of 20-30 carefully crafted, high-quality photographs that you’ll treasure forever.
What to Look For:
Photographers who use high-end equipment, not entry-level cameras on auto.
Photographers with a professional studio space
A commitment to achieving excellent results with attention to detail. Remember, you pay for what you get—all the digitals for £100 is unlikely to be of high quality.
Tip:Â Look for photographers who have realistic session lengths. For us, 2 hours is plenty of time to capture precious moments, and our feedback tells us our customers prefer this to sessions that last half the day.

7. Make an Informed Investment
Think of photography as an investment in your family’s legacy. Professional portraits increase in sentimental value over time, look amazing on the walls of your home and in luxury albums.
How to Prepare:
Set a realistic budget for quality photography. Our average customer spend is £650, some spend more, and other's spend less, but ultimately you should be expecting to pay around £300 as a minimum for a smaller package, up to 4 figures for larger packages that include a combination of digital, prints, and wall art and maybe other sessions too like 6 months and first birthday.
Understand the value of tangible products like prints and albums, and the extent of use of digital images which can be shared with family and friends, and printed at your leisure.
Remember that these images are heirlooms that will be treasured by future generations.