— Studio guide · A free reading from Aline's Gentle Lens
How to Choose Your Photographer
Ten questions to ask before you book — and what a good answer sounds like.
— A note before we begin
Choosing well matters more than most parents realise
You are not just booking photographs. You are choosing who holds your baby, and who you will look back on these images with for years.
There are many lovely photographers on the Northern Beaches, and price is only one part of the picture. This short guide gives you ten honest questions to ask — and what a thoughtful answer sounds like — so you can choose with confidence, whoever you go with.
I have written it plainly, the way I would explain it to a friend. I hope it helps.
With warmth,
Aline
— Question one
How much experience do you have with newborns specifically?
What to listen for. Newborns are not small adults — they need a particular calm and confidence. Listen for hands-on experience with babies, not just years owning a camera. Someone who has truly handled many newborns will settle yours far more easily.
— Question two
How do you keep my baby safe and comfortable during the session?
What to listen for. A good answer is specific — baby-led posing, nothing forced, a warm room, clean hands and props, and a parent always close by. Safety should be the first thing they talk about, not an afterthought.
— Question three
Do you work from a studio, or in homes?
What to listen for. Both can be lovely. A dedicated studio gives controlled light, warmth and props in every season; in-home is convenient but depends on your space and weather. Ask which they offer, and why.
— Question four
Is your style consistent across a whole gallery — not just the highlights?
What to listen for. Ask to see a full recent session, start to finish. Anyone can show ten beautiful images. You want to see that every photo in a gallery holds the same calm, consistent look.
— Question five
What exactly is included, and what costs extra?
What to listen for. Clarity is kindness. Listen for a clear explanation of session time, how many images, prints or products, and any add-ons — so there are no surprises later.
— Question six
How and when will I see and receive my photographs?
What to listen for. A thoughtful photographer has a clear process — a private online gallery delivered within a realistic timeframe, with download and print rights. Vague answers here often mean vague delivery.
— Question seven
What happens if my baby is unsettled, or arrives early or late?
What to listen for. Newborns keep their own schedule. Listen for flexibility — patience with feeds and breaks, and a willingness to move dates around your baby rather than the calendar.
— Question eight
Are you insured, and do you have a backup plan?
What to listen for. A professional carries insurance and has a plan if equipment fails or illness strikes. It is a quiet sign you are dealing with a real business, not a weekend hobby.
— Question nine
Can I read reviews from recent families?
What to listen for. Recent, specific reviews — ideally mentioning how the photographer was with their baby — tell you far more than a star rating. Ask where you can read them.
— Question ten
Do I feel calm and looked after when we talk?
What to listen for. Trust the feeling. You will be tired and emotional on the day. The right person makes you feel safe and unhurried from the very first conversation.
— Worth noticing
A few gentle red flags
- Safety brushed aside. No clear safety answer, or posing that looks risky in their portfolio.
- Only highlights. Beautiful single images, but no full galleries to show consistency.
- Vague or pushy. Unclear pricing, or pressure to decide on the spot.
- No business basics. No reviews, no insurance, no backup plan.
— Keep this handy
Your questions checklist
- Real hands-on experience with newborns
- A clear, specific answer on safety
- Studio or in-home — and why
- Consistent style across a full gallery
- Clear pricing and what is included
- A defined way you will see and receive photos
- Flexibility if baby is early, late or unsettled
- Insured, with a backup plan
- Recent reviews from real families
- You feel calm and looked after
— Take it with you
Download the printable PDF.
Pop in your email and we'll send the beautifully typeset PDF straight to your inbox — plus the occasional gentle note from the studio.
— Let's begin
Ready to plan your session
Fresh dates open most weeks — newborn reschedules mean short-notice spots come up often. If your date is close, reach out anyway.
- — Phone
- 0494 561 832
- info@alinesgentlelens.com.au
- — Studio
- Studio 11/89 Darley St, Mona Vale NSW 2103
- — Web
- alinesgentlelens.com.au