COVID 19 - Should I do a newborn session?
The answer is a HARD NO! First of all, at the time of writing this article, it is illegal for photographers to be working. We will receive a hefty fine, and it is not worth the financial struggle, but more importantly, it is NOT worth the risk to your health and the health of your baby. Hobbyists shouldn’t be offering either. NO ONE SHOULD! If you are working with a reputable photographer, we know the safety precautions, and we work very hard to keep your baby safe during our sessions while capturing the fleeting and very precious first days of your baby’s life. However, right now, as valuable and precious as your newborn’s photography session is, the risk to you, your spouse, your baby, your family…it is NOT. WORTH. IT. Let me repeat that for you all - IT IS NOT WORTH IT!
We are in a global pandemic right now - no one is immune, there is no vaccine, there is no cure, and our front line health care workers are BEGGING us to stay home for good reason. If you find a photographer, hobbyist, or anyone who is claiming that they can work with you right now, they are breaking the law, and they obviously are NOT putting you and your family first because it is incredibly selfish to put your life and health at risk for a photography session. Period.
As a photographer, do I like having to turn down clients? No. I hate it. I hate not being able to capture precious family moments. I hate that people are being deprived of professional photography, ESPECIALLY for newborns because you cannot redo it. You get one chance. But, think about it. People are having to cancel EVERYTHING right now. Our kids aren’t at school. Weddings are canceled. Grandparents aren’t allowed to meet their new grandchildren. Nursing homes are locked down. People are dying every day. It is tragic and horrible. We all know what is going on. Why would a newborn session be an exception to this?! They are so vulnerable in general, so it is just maddening to me that there are people considering newborn photography right now. Apparently, I am triggered. Sorry guys. Sometimes I get upset when I see things that are just blatantly NOT OKAY.
HELPFUL TIPS
Here are some things that you CAN do in place of a newborn photography session right now:
Buy a DSLR camera. These are GREAT to have for your everyday family moments, such as birthdays, holidays, playing outside, school programs and kids sports…it is an investment that every family should have. You don’t have to have the professional grade cameras that us professionals have - a simple set up can help you capture wonderful memories without breaking the bank. The Canon Rebel bundles are a great way to get started with this: Canon Rebel Bundle
Go on Pinterest. Review your photographer’s newborn portfolio. Get inspired. Then, recreate those poses as best as you can. Pinterest Inspiration
Use natural light. Here are some great tips: Best Natural Light Tips
Take photos at the hospital - these do not need to be posed - the organic interactions are amazing. Here is some inspiration! Hospital newborn photos
Purchase a tripod, set your timer, and get photos of you with your baby. Get photos of both parents together. Get siblings in the photos, pile in, and just look at each other and the baby and don’t worry about “posing”. The natural interactions make for some amazing captures.
If all else fails, use your cell phone. Phone Photography 101
EDITING SERVICES
Many people can take great photos, but then, the editing is where people struggle. THIS IS WHERE I COME IN! :) :) :) :) I am here to save the day!! During this time, I am offering editing services to clients who are doing the safe and responsible thing and taking their own photos. For newborns, I can create composites for you to get the more “traditional” looks. For your lifestyle photos, I can edit in my usual style to make your photos pop. I can remove blemishes, distractions, and give your photos a professional polished look so that you don’t miss out on having professional-level photos for your newborn.
If you are interested in this service, please reach out to me! Pricing for this service is $15 per edited photo and $25 per composite.
Email: saw@finkanie.com - Text: 269-377-2462 - or use my contact form on my website: www.finkanie.com/contact