Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

Where is the best place to take baby pictures?

Baby pictures are among the most popular types of portrait photography, and most newborn photographers are well versed in the best places to take baby pictures in their local areas. Some newborn photographers will come to the hospital to shoot the baby within a day or two of birth, while others have set up their studios to accommodate the needs of infants. Some parents prefer to have the newborn photographer come to their home or travel to a favorite park or other outdoor location. Like any portrait photography, the best place to take baby pictures is the place you like best and that will yield the types of photos you want of your baby, whether that’s posed and carefully lit studio portraits or spontaneous, casual photos at home. Work with a local newborn photographer to find a safe, calm location with great lighting and some privacy for your family.

How much does baby photography cost?

Portrait photography provides parents with lasting images of the first whirlwind months of a newborn’s life. The cost varies based on several factors, including the length and location of the session, the number of photos provided, and the amount of editing and retouching the photographer does. The national average cost for baby photos is $150-$200. Some baby photographers charge by the number of photos provided, typically ranging from an average of $299 for 20 high-resolution edited photos, to an average of $399 for 35 photos, to $499 for all of the images taken in a single session. Props and location affect the cost, too; an elaborate studio shoot with props and professional lighting may increase the cost to $600-$700 for 20-50 photos. Adding a second location or asking the photographer to travel can add $70-$250 to the cost of the session. Photographers may also charge extra fees for providing additional photos and DVDs, scheduling weekend sessions, and shooting siblings. Expect to pay at least a $50 deposit when you book a portrait photography session.

When should you take newborn photos?

Few styles of portrait photography are as tricky as newborn photos — the unpredictable infant is always in charge! The best way to ensure a successful photo shoot is to work with a local newborn photographer within the first two weeks of the baby’s life. Some photographers even work with hospitals to offer newborn sessions within a day of the baby’s birth. But newborn photographers usually recommend scheduling a shoot during the baby’s first two weeks of life, while the baby is still sleepy and relatively cooperative, especially for posed or studio shots. During this time, babies are easier to swaddle in blankets and dress in hats or headbands, and, because they often nap or nurse, can be staged with various props or be cuddled by their parents. For casual photos, most newborn photographers recommend shooting within the first six weeks of a baby’s life. Lifestyle portrait photography is more flexible and doesn’t require the baby to cooperate with multiple poses or props.

Patricia T.

Verified review

Ivan was my photographer for my maternity pictures. He did a phenomenal job! He took all of my example photos and really worked hard to get mine as close to them as possible. He brought a lot of camera equipment and material for lighting. I couldn't be happier with how the photos turned out. In all, he spent around 3 hours shooting. I never expected him to take so much time out of his day, but he was very dedicated and cared about the quality of the photos. Ivan truly went above and beyond. He had a great attitude and was easy to shoot with. I would recommend him to anyone!

Margaret P.

My family and I had a great experience with Sheryl. We had a huge family photo shoot due a very meaningful reunion- with a newborn, several Oct. birthday celebrants, and a family member that has been in remission with cancer for one year to the date. I was coming from out of state and I searched online for photographers. What caught my attention and what drew me to Sheryl was her great eye and great shots from her portfolio. The colors in her pictures were vivid and creative and wanted to have memorable family photo shoot. She was very professional, easy to contact and talk with. One family member has to be careful with large crowds due to health issues, and she worked well with the space we had. She was resourceful, efficient and accommodating. And she worked well with all the kids- which were 6 in total! Overall, I highly recommend Sheryl for her professionalism, her talent, and for her thoughtfulness.

Tasia L.

Susan is an amazing photographer. The pictures look like they belong in the hospitals (labor and delivery wing) and in magazines. I was so happy when she took time with the baby and didn't rush. She was so loving and understanding and we even stopped between the shoot to feed baby. When baby was crying, she encouraged me to stop and pick her up to calm her and then we would start again whereas at other studios I felt rushed and like I was inconveniencing them. She has an amazing imagination and she was relentless to find the perfect shot for the baby. When the baby was too fussy she figured out a way to take the shots of her ON ME!! You can't even tell I was holding her. In my opinion, that is truly amazing! You could really tell this is a talent and true passion of Susan's. The pictures came out so amazing and I would definetly use her again for any of our photographic needs.

Zee A.

Lily and her husband make a great team! My wife and I were very pleased and happy to have them as our photographers. They were very professional and were both so nice! They were always around to take pictures when we wanted them, but yet never in the way. We would both highly reccommend them!!!

Janet A.

We recently had a company picnic and wanted to hire a professional photographer to capture those family moments. Maria did an amazing job! No stress, fast and the pictures are beautiful!! Thank you so much Maria.

Benjamin N.

In working with the family and temperamental young children, Donna exhibited great patience and creativity in trying to get cooperation to get some great photographs. Donna Mitchell Photography is a natural light, lifestyle photographer. She does on location photography to capture life's most precious moments, from family, to newborn, to maternity and more. Shes not afraid of getting down in the dirt to get the perfect shot!

Sai V.

I can say for my experience that Corey is hands-on one of the best photographers that deliver good quality work and beat customer experience. I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for quality service

Matthew N.

On the single most important day of my Life to date, Jordan captured the moments that we, my fiance and I, will treasure for the rest of our days. Not only was the occasion a 30th birthday party, but also the proposal! That's right - I popped the question and she said yes. Jordan captured it all. If you are searching for a photographer and videographer that is responsive, honest, and produces quality, please reach out to Jordan. By the way; he shoots with Sony. Therefore, you can only expect the best quality photos and video, with crisp audio. Looking forward future opportunities, Jordan. Thank you!

Tasha W.

Michael was so great! He made everything super easy for us such as giving us good tips, providing a book about clear/popular poses, and he made the whole session simple. A lot better than other photographers we have hired before!

Karolina S.

Hugo photographed a wedding party for us and we couldn't be happier. He captured everything from dress details to candid guest shots and silly pics in a remarkably short time. Our communication was smooth in spite of time difference - the party was in Los Angeles and I live in Europe, Hugo made the formal process as easy as it can be. The pictures, already edited, arrived very soon and they were just great. Hugo (and Sara! she was great too) captured everything we wanted to remember from that special event. We had the pleasure of working with two other photographers during our geographically splintered wedding, but we think it's these photos we're most eager to hang on our walls.

Karen L.

Jerry was terrific -- a wonderful photographer, genuine human being and total professional. I am not at all comfortable having my picture taken, but he put me at ease and made me feel at home. Plus, his photos are uniquely shot -- he really captured who I was, inside and out. That's in part because he took the time to get to know me. His prices were very reasonable, and he delivered the pictures quickly. Look closely at his sample head shots -- he shows an artistry unique to headshot photographers. Plus, he is a really kind, friendly person. I also recommend his makeup artist. She made be look better, but still like me, which is exactly what I wanted.

Ashley L.

Loved working with Nikki! She's so sweet and so passionate about what she does. We used her for our maternity photos and our daughters newborn photos. We definitely plan on using her in the future as well.

Maria V.

Kristal and her husband were amazing! There are no words that describe how beautiful and amazing their work, time, dedication patience, and not to mention PASSION! They made our wedding phenomenal and gave us everything we asked for. If you're looking for a photographer, definitely choose her, she is fun, amazing and nice to work with. Whenever we have an event and need a photographer we know who to go to. Thanks Kristal for all your work and being part of our special day!

Betty N.

Loi and Joel are an amazing Team! Loi’s eye for photography are on point and beautiful! Not only was she able to capture gorgeous posed shots, she captured the best candid shots as well! Challenging, to say the least, with a 2 yo, 5yo and a dog! She even got the dog to look at the camera! Serrano Photogprahy will be our go to photographers for many more years to come as our family continues to grow through the years! Thank you Loi and Joel! We love you! 💕 Toan, Betty, Emma, Mila & Fozzie

Amy R.

Excellent photographer, delivery of the photos, and video went beyond our expectation. Easy to work with, flexible. Used for multiple events, from a birthday party to a wedding! Highly recommended

Jude S.

The final photos were suuper good, and Anthony sent them to us the next day which way quicker than some photographers I've worked with in the past so that's also a plus! I'd definitely recommend!

Lacey M.

Nikolette recently did my maternity photos and I couldn’t be happier about my experience! Nikolette was on time, professional and took some beautiful pictures. She helped me pose and directed me throughout the shoot to make sure I looked my best. I highly recommend using her services for any occasion :)

Arcy C.

Gloria is Absolutely amazing! I’m kind of new to the high desert and I wanted to find a photographer to assist me. So I can pursue my passions and dreams. Her professionalism and tips are amazing and the way the pictures turned out was beyond amazing 🦋. I would reccommend her to each and everyone. If your not using her then you need to. By the way she very sweet and very business oriented! I will come back.

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