Newborn

How to Choose the Best NWA Newborn Photographer for Your Session

February 15, 2025

A mother sits in a rocking chair near a large, bright window, holding her newborn baby in her arms. In the foreground, two family dogs rest on the floor, completing the intimate and loving family moment. Sunlight streams through the window, creating a soft and peaceful atmosphere. This heartwarming lifestyle newborn session was taken by an NWA photographer, capturing the beauty of motherhood and family bonds.

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If you’re a new parent (or about to be), you’re probably overwhelmed with all the decisions you need to make. There are many NWA newborn photographers to choose from, but finding the right one for you doesn’t have to be stressful.

As a NWA newborn photographer who also specializes in birth and maternity, I understand the value and importance of capturing these early moments of your baby’s life! Let me guide you through the process and provide you with all the information you need to capture the early moments of your baby’s life.

Let’s dive into some of the most common questions about newborn photography.

“What should I look for when researching NWA newborn photographers?”

It’s very important to choose a photographer who specializes in newborn photography and has experience working with infants. I’ve been a newborn photographer since 2017, and beyond just taking photos, I focus on creating a calm, enjoyable experience for new parents. My expertise allows me to guide you through the process, from helping you prepare beforehand to keeping your baby comfortable during the session.

Many first-time moms don’t realize how much a prepared, experienced photographer can impact the outcome of their session. I didn’t think much about my own newborn session when I had my first baby—I just knew I wanted it documented. Looking back, I wish I had invested more time in preparing, selecting outfits, and choosing a photographer who really understood newborns. That’s why I do everything I can to make this experience easy and enjoyable for my clients, ensuring they have photos they’ll cherish for a lifetime.

“What can I expect during a newborn photography session?”

My approach to newborn photography is natural, organic, and baby-led. I have a workflow that ensures we capture all the essential moments—baby alone, mom with baby, dad with baby, parents together, and siblings if applicable. I also love incorporating special details, like nursery decor and candid family interactions.

Your baby’s comfort is my priority. I don’t force babies into unnatural poses or use excessive props. Instead, I focus on genuine, heartfelt moments—diaper changes, feedings, snuggles, and those fleeting in-between interactions that tell your family’s story.

If your baby needs to be fed or changed mid-session, we take our time. Just the other day, I had a session where the dad was feeding the baby a bottle while also feeding the mom coffee through a straw—it was such a sweet, real moment! These little glimpses into early parenthood are the ones you’ll treasure most.

I also know that mamas have a lot on their plates, which is why I guide you every step of the way, from outfit selection to gentle posing that flatters you during postpartum recovery. And if you have older siblings, don’t worry—I’m a master toddler negotiator with plenty of tricks up my sleeve to keep them engaged and happy.

“Do I need to bring anything?”

You don’t need to bring much, as I provide everything necessary, from wraps and blankets to simple, timeless accessories. However, if there’s something personal you’d like to include—like a special blanket or family heirloom—I’d love to incorporate it.

One of the biggest stressors for new parents is picking outfits at the last minute, which is why I encourage planning ahead. Even if you don’t want to buy new clothes, I can help you coordinate outfits from your current wardrobe that will photograph beautifully. I also highly recommend professional hair and makeup—it makes such a difference in how relaxed and confident moms feel. My preferred stylist, Paige with GhlamBeauty, does an amazing job of creating a bright, refreshed, polished-but-natural look that my clients love.

“When will I get my photos?”

You can expect your final edited images within 4-5 weeks. Most clients opt for my Signature Newborn Session, which includes all edited digital files, but I also offer a Baby’s First Year Plan for those who want to document their baby’s milestones beyond the newborn stage.

“How much do NWA newborn photographers charge for sessions?”

While all NWA newborn photographers are different, my pricing for maternity sessions starts around $450 and newborn at $750. I offer three newborn session options so you can choose what’s best for your family and your budget:

  • Mini Session: A shorter session focusing just on baby (or baby + parents).
  • Signature Newborn Session: The most popular choice, including a full session with all edited digital images.
  • Baby’s First Year Plan: A curated series of sessions capturing baby’s first year, including a print credit.

Payment plans are always available and can be customized to fit your needs. Since I take a limited number of newborns per month—especially now that I also offer birth photography—I recommend booking early to ensure availability. Many of my clients reserve their session before baby arrives, which makes the process so much smoother and stress-free once baby is here.

So, there you have them, my best tips for choosing a NWA newborn photographer to help document those precious early days!

There are so many talented NWA newborn photographers, but choosing the right one for you is so important. This is such a fleeting and special season, and you want someone who will preserve it in a way that speaks to you artistically—but also someone with the experience to handle newborns safely and gently. Your photographer plays a huge role in making sure your session feels relaxed and stress-free, so you can focus on soaking in these precious moments.

I’d love to help you document this time in a way that feels effortless and enjoyable. If you have any questions or want to book your newborn session, [click here] to fill out my contact form.

I can’t wait to create beautiful, lasting memories for your family!

Click here to contact me.

Click here to see more of my newborn images.

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Northwest Arkansas newborn photographer

ABOUT leslie

Now that I'm a mom, I know the secret: we don't know everything. We are growing and changing, right alongside our little ones. 
Motherhood changes us in ways we never expected.

My days may seem filled with NERF bullets, diapers, and endless laundry, but they are really filled with moments of profound connection and love as I raise my babies.

Through my lens, I strive to celebrate the beauty of motherhood in all its forms. From the messy chaos to the quiet moments, I want to honor the sacred bond between you and your child and capture the joy and wonder that it brings.

©Leslie Nice Photography

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