5 Tips for Choosing the Best Southeast Michigan Baby Photographer

So you just had a baby and are unsure where and how to start when finding the perfect Southeast Michigan baby photographer that works for your family. I’m here to help you narrow it down! I’m a local lifestyle photographer with all the tips on what to look for! Check out my top 5 suggestions to help you find your dream photographer.

1. Figure out what’s important to you specifically

Before you start sifting through photographers, it’s important to figure out what you truly care about. I know; that sounds obvious, but many of us jump to looking at packages and comparing what each photographer includes. We don’t always stop to think about the other things that matter. Here are some examples:

• Time: Do you want someone who can finish the session efficiently so you can get back to your daily schedule? Or, do you want a photographer that takes their time and makes the session feel calm and non-rushed?
• Location: Would you prefer an on-location photographer that comes to your home, or would you prefer to go to a studio?
• Aesthetic: What editing style is your favorite? Do you enjoy true to color edits, light and airy, dark and moody, or do you like bold and punchy?
• Posing: Do you enjoy perfectly posed photos, lots of props, or natural and relaxed?

I encourage you to figure out the answers to those things before you start your search.

2. Where to look for your Southeast Michigan baby photographer

There are lots of places to search, but here are my favorites:

• Google: Google is a great place to start! Try searching “Newborn photographer near me”, “your city Baby Photographer”, etc. Click the images button to quickly see work and compare. Google is a great place to check reviews as well (more on this later)
• Instagram: This one is a little less obvious, but social media can be a great way to connect with a photographer. Instagram specifically is a great spot to find a photographer because it is filled with less words and more photos. Just what we want to see! Looking at a photographer’s Instagram feed can be a quick way to see if their work is consistent in editing, lighting, posing, etc. You can often tell what the overall vibe is by checking their grid. Click on their reels to get a glimpse into their personality as well! Can you relate to the content they post?
• Local Facebook groups: If you have a Facebook account, try searching for local community groups to join. Make a post asking for recommendations on local photographers. The more specific you are in your post about what you’re looking for, the better suggestions you’ll receive!
• Friends & Family: Nothing beats a personal referral from someone that you trust. If you have a good friend that has photos that you love, reach out and ask them who took the photos and if they enjoyed their experience. It’s the ultimate compliment!

3. Review Portfolios and Galleries

Take the time to carefully review the portfolios and galleries of photographers you are considering. Look for consistency in their work, such as the quality of lighting, composition, and editing style. Pay attention to the emotions captured in the photos and how the photographer interacts with babies and families. This will help you determine if their artistic vision aligns with your preferences. For example, if you want to show that your family is fun and playful, you’d want to avoid a photographer that has more serious, editorial type work and vice versa!

4. Ask About Experience and Expertise

When selecting a baby photographer, it’s essential to consider their experience and expertise in working with infants. Ask potential photographers about their background, training, and how long they have been specializing in baby photography. Experienced photographers will have the skills and patience required to handle babies safely and capture those precious moments beautifully. When photographers work with babies often, this will normally be very apparent on their social media pages and their website as well! Don’t be afraid to do a little investigating.

5. Evaluate Pricing and Packages

While it’s important to find a photographer whose style and approach you love, it’s also crucial to consider your budget. Compare the pricing and packages offered by different photographers. Look for transparency in their pricing structure and make sure you understand what is included in each package. Consider factors such as the number of edited photos, session length, if retouching is included, and any additional costs for prints or digital files. Does the photographer have a hands-on approach and make everything easy on you, or do you need to handle most of the planning? Balancing quality and cost will help you feel confident in the photographer you end up booking.

 

If you’re interested in learning more about me, I’m Kim and own Pickett Perfect Photography in Canton, Michigan. I encourage you to check out my page and reach out if my work fits what you’re looking for!