If you’re an expecting parent (congrats!!) in Northwest Arkansas, you’re probably starting to look into your newborn photography options and might have some questions — when to book, what to expect, and how to prepare for capturing those first sweet moments with your baby. As an established professional newborn photographer with over a decade of experience serving the Northwest Arkansas area, I often get asked a lot of questions by new parents just like you. Here are the top 10 questions I hear the most — with answers to help you feel more confident and ready for your baby’s first photo session!
1. When Should I Book a Newborn Photographer in Northwest Arkansas?
Booking early is key! I recommend scheduling your newborn photo session during your pregnancy, ideally between 20-30 weeks at the latest. This ensures you have enough time to plan and reserve a spot during the best time for newborn photos—usually within the first 10 days after birth when your baby is naturally sleepy and flexible for those adorable poses. If you are wanting a maternity session as well, I would reach out to your preferred photographer during your first trimester. For my clients, I suggest scheduling their Maternity session between 28-32 weeks. Additionally, most established newborn photographers offer packages that can include a maternity and newborn session.
2. What Should I Expect During a Newborn Photography Session?
Newborn sessions in Northwest Arkansas will vary depending on your photographer’s style (traditionally posed, studio, in-home, lifestyle, etc.) and approach to photographing newborns and families. Photographing newborns should be relaxed and unhurried with an average session typically lasting 2-3 hours. Most newborn photographers will provide swaddles (and props for studio photographers) and gentle posing for baby and family. Full Service Newborn Photographers (like Loren Bullard Photography) often offer professional hair and makeup for the mom, and maybe even a Client Closet of clothing or outfit planning for the family – making your session even easier on you!
3. How Long Does a Newborn Photo Session Take?
While this answer also varies, you can typically plan for about 2-3 hours. Newborns (and toddlers) need plenty of breaks, so the session moves at your baby’s pace to ensure comfort and safety while capturing those perfect sleepy shots. We take our time to allow for feeding, comforting, and gentle posing. While my sessions of just a newborn in the studio can last up to an hour, my studio or in-home newborn sessions including family average 2-2.5 hours.
4. What Should Baby Wear for a Newborn Photo Shoot?
Most parents will be happy with simple swaddles or wraps that highlight their baby’s natural beauty. Some parents may include family heirlooms for a personal touch. My clients don’t need to have anything prepared as I bring neutral swaddles to all of my sessions that will work with any home or clothing color palette. If you do have items you would like to incorporate, I’m happy to guide you on how to include it into your photos!
5. Is It Safe to Have a Newborn Photo Session?
Safety should be of top priority. A professional photographer, like myself, should be trained in newborn posing and follow strict safety protocols to keep your baby comfortable and secure throughout the session. That is why it is very important to not hire just anyone with a camera to photograph your baby. Ensure that the photographer you choose to hire for your baby’s photos has had training and extensive experience in how to safely photograph newborns.
6. How Much Does Newborn Photography Cost in Northwest Arkansas?
Pricing for a newborn photographer in NWA varies. Newborn sessions can range anywhere from $300 to $1200, depending on the photographer’s expertise, years in business, and what the package includes. This usually includes the session, editing, and a selection of digital images or prints. I personally offer customizable packages to fit your needs with my offerings ranging from $750 – $3550. Most of my sessions and packages include complimentary outfit planning for the family, a leather album including your favorite images of the session, and can include hair and makeup for mom by my trusted professional artists.
7. Can Family Members Be Included in the Photos?
Definitely! Including parents and siblings makes for beautiful family portraits. Most newborn photographers in the Northwest Arkansas area allow families to be involved in the newborn session. I, for one, LOVE having parents and siblings included!
8. What Style of Newborn Photography Should I Choose?
This is completely dependent upon your own preference. Just be sure that find a photographer that matches your vision. For instance, don’t expect to receive lifestyle photos in your own from a photographer that specializes in traditionally posed newborn photos. Those styles are not the same! I offer a natural lifestyle session approach either within your home or at a natural light studio in Rogers. We’ll discuss what style fits your personality and vision best to create photos you’ll love.
9. How Do I Prepare My Baby for the Photo Session?
I cover this in more detail in my communication with my clients. But the big things are to make sure your baby has been awake for a little while before the session, and is well-fed with a clean diaper at the beginning of the session. Leave them in just a diaper wrapped in a soft blanket to keep them warm for easy changes when the photographer is ready to begin. Having familiar items on hand like a pacifier or favorite blanket, or even an extra bottle of milk can help soothe your baby during the shoot.
10. When Will I Receive My Newborn Photos?
I know you will be eager to see your photos! For most photographers, you can expect to receive your edited photos within 3-5 weeks after the session. Some photographer that offer products as part of their packages may have different turnaround times. You can almost always expect to receive previews before your full gallery arrives! I often send sneak peeks within a week of your session so you can start enjoying those precious moments right away!
If you’re expecting a baby in Northwest Arkansas and want to capture these fleeting moments with professional newborn photography, I’d love to chat! Contact me today to book your session or ask any questions.
