Are you expecting a new little one and happen to live in Iowa City (Iowa)? This post today is your one stop shop packed with info about newborn photographers/photography here in our lovely little slice of the midwest. I am going to try to tackle the basics to help you navigate from square one about booking a newborn session with an Iowa City newborn photographer.

How early should I book a newborn photographer?

The most typical recommendation is to book 3-4 months prior to your baby’s due date (or in your 2nd/3rd trimester). I know some parents that book a photographer shortly after they make the official announcement! Most photographers will require some sort of deposit or retainer to hold your spot on the calendar (your due date). While this will depend on the photographer, some photographers do have last minute availability (I personally typically can fit in newborn sessions during the week within 2-3 weeks notice). You can always reach out directly to newborn photographers you are considering to ask how far out they typically book.

How much does newborn photography cost?

In the Iowa City area, the cost of newborn photography varies from approximately $400 to $1,025 (for full sessions). When you are looking at photographer’s pricing, you will want to look at the pricing structure as they can vary (just like other types of photography). Some packages will include a session fee (which does not include any images/pictures)-which is just a fee to get started. Other packages may include a certain number of photos, while others may be what we call “all-inclusive” (yes, similar to that resort in Turks + Caicos-everything is included). If you are someone who loves to print your photos or create albums, you may want to consider that you may want a large number of images. Other parents or families are looking for just a few photos to frame.

Should I book a studio or at home newborn session?

I think this is truly a personal preference thing. I really encourage any expecting parents to look over photographer’s portfolios, i.e. the website, to gain a true appreciation of what vibe/look you like better. You can also ask to see a full gallery. This gives you a better idea of what you may receive as a client. Social media is often a highlight reel (just the best images), but seeing more images + a variety can inform you more about the artist’s work.

Sidenote: When I first started photographing newborns I thought I loved posed newborns. I literally looked like I was moving in when I showed up at client’s homes (portable heater, huge beanbag, positioning pillows, cute outfits and headbands-all the things). If you have looked at my current work, then you will see that I have completely shifted my work to more “natural” at home sessions. It’s just something that inspires me more. Here’s a little comparison/breakdown of studio vs home/lifestyle.

Studio Newborn

• at a photographer’s studio (ok that one was obvious)
• typically knit outfits and/or wrapping/swaddling techniques
• studio is kept at warm temperature to promote calm/sleep baby
• photographer poses/positions your baby (may include a bean bag, basket etc)
• some photographers include family/sibling photos
• sessions typically last 2+ hours
• overall have a very clean “polished” look to them

Home/lifestyle

• at home-typically include common spaces i.e. living room, master/primary bedroom, nursery
• typically simple outfits such as a onesie or romper (“usual clothes”); swaddling can also be done
• photographer guides parents/family members into general positions/makes different suggestions (how “posed” it is really depends on the photographer)
• sessions include family and siblings (including pet siblings)
• sessions typically last 1-2 hours
• each home session looks unique
• may include more natural or “day to day” family life (i.e. a toddler playing with mom holding baby or parents enjoying coffee in the kitchen etc)

Other Helpful Info

Feel free to look through my blog library under the newborn section for more blogs that you may find helpful. I have a separate blog that talks even more about lifestyle newborn sessions here.

If you are looking on information about how to choose a Iowa City newborn photographer (a little bit more about the decision itself), I have a whole blog about it, check that out here. It’s so important that each family is able to choose a newborn photographer that works with your family’s personality, style and artistic eye 🙂

If you ready to book or want more information, feel free to contact me via my CONTACT PAGE.