What to Look For In A Pittsburgh Newborn Photographer
Look at his sweet little fingers and toes <3. Relaxed, comfortable, perfectly lit and posed in a simple newborn photoshoot in my Pittsburgh studio..
How to Choose a Newborn Photographer
Having a baby is one of the most meaningful — and fleeting — seasons of life. Those first days pass quickly, which is why newborn photos are often some of the most treasured images a family will ever have.
Because newborn sessions typically take place within the first three weeks after birth, choosing the right photographer ahead of time is an important decision. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to know what to look for. From my perspective as both a mom and a professional newborn photographer, here are the most important things to consider when choosing the right photographer for your baby.
A 2 week old baby girl, happy, relaxed, and sweetly posed with pretty but simple accessories my Pittsburgh newborn studio.
Choose Your Preferred Style: Posed vs. Lifestyle Newborn Photography
Newborn photography generally falls into two main styles: posed and lifestyle.
Posed newborn photography is typically done in a studio setting and includes carefully styled setups using wraps, blankets, and props. Babies are gently guided into classic, curled poses.
Lifestyle newborn photography usually takes place in your home and focuses on natural, lightly posed moments with minimal props.
Neither style is better — it simply depends on what you’re drawn to.
👉 If you’re unsure which style is right for you, you can read a full breakdown here: (Posed Vs. Lifestyle Newborn Photography)
This is one of my in-home/lifestyle newborn images done in my client's Peter's Twp home. The same idea can also be executed in my studio.
Safe Newborn Posing is Essential
Your baby’s safety should always come first. A qualified newborn photographer should:
- Never place a baby in an unsafe or unsupported position
- Understand how to gently transition between poses
- Know how to read a baby’s cues and comfort level
These skills often come from specialized training and experience, not just general photography knowledge. Not every photographer — even very talented ones — has the experience needed to safely pose and handle a newborn.
One of the best ways to evaluate this is:
- Ask other parents about their experience. You can read my newborn photography reviews here.
- Look for photographers who specialize specifically in newborn photography
This image was captured in my Pittsburgh newborn studio. She is posed by me on my specially designed newborn posing beanbag and perfectly lit with my studio lighting system.
Pay Attention to the Details
A skilled newborn photographer pays close attention to small details that make a big difference in the final images. When reviewing a photographer’s portfolio, look for:
Relaxed Hands & Natural Posing
Babies naturally clench their hands, but a trained photographer will gently guide fingers into a more relaxed, natural position.
Flattering Angles
Images should avoid:
- Harsh angles
- “Up the nose” shots
- Awkward or unbalanced compositions
The baby should always be the clear, beautifully framed focus of the image.
Clean, Thoughtful Presentation
Professional newborn images should feel polished and intentional — not rushed or random
Appropriate Styling
Images should always be tasteful and respectful. You NEVER want to see any lower frontal parts exposed.
Editing & Skin Tones
Newborn skin often includes redness, flakes, or temporary blemishes. Editing styles vary, but consistency and quality are key. Professional editing should:
- Soften or remove temporary marks
- Even out skin tones
- Maintain a natural, timeless look
The baby is cozy, curled, and comfortable. His fingers are relaxed and the tones chosen for the image beautifully compliment him.
Image Quality & Lighting Matter
Every image in a photographer’s portfolio should be:
- Sharp and in focus
- Properly exposed (not too dark or too bright)
- Lit with soft, flattering light
Lighting should create depth and dimension — not look flat or overly harsh.
If you notice inconsistent quality in a portfolio, it is probably a sign of inexperience.
Because of the system I use and my 15 years of experience, the lighting in my studio images remains consistent across all poses and set-ups, no matter if the baby is wrapped in a prop or simply posed lying on my posing beanbag.
Experience with Newborns Makes a Difference
Newborn photography is a specialized skill.
An experienced newborn photographer understands:
- Baby behavior and soothing techniques
- Safe posing practices
- How to create a calm, efficient session
This experience directly impacts both your final images and your overall experience.
The baby is fully supported and comfortable in the prop, relaxed and peaceful, allowing me to capture this gorgeous image of her.
Choose Someone Whose Work You Truly Love
Style, editing, and approach vary from photographer to photographer.
Choose someone whose:
- Portfolio consistently matches your taste
- Editing style feels timeless to you
- Overall work stands out to you emotionally
Trying to recreate a variety of styles from different photographers rarely leads to the best results.
A stunning mama and her new baby boy captured in the family posing section of my studio.
Looking for a Newborn Photographer in Pittsburgh?
I would love to work with you! You can learn more about my newborn photography sessions, experience, and studio here: