First and foremost I have to state my bias, because let's be honest here: I'm a newborn photographer by trade. I firmly believe everyone should do newborn photos in some form, whether it be hospital, studio, or at home. That aside, of course there are plenty of factors to consider.
For most families, cost is the biggest issue. Bringing home a new baby is EXPENSIVE. No denying that, and no way to get around it. More and more people are struggling in current times, so it makes sense to cut back on non essential services. Those of us in the service industry are thoroughly aware of this fact, that's for sure. It's nothing to be concerned over, though, because we all get it.
There are staff photographers who come around to rooms and take the photos for free, offering to sell packages after the fact. Those packages typically end up costing around $250-300 in the end, but the downside to that service is that the employee is working on a commission only basis. The photographer is typically required to use their own camera and laptop (wear and tear over time), and provides the full end to end service. I can't help but be opposed to the system as a whole, when they end up taking home only a small percentage of the package selected. Of the companies I'm aware of, none offer benefits like health insurance or sick leave either, but that's a whole other issue.
So what's the point? Hire your own photographer. I can think of ten extremely talented local small business owners that would be thrilled to come take photos, even excluding my own career. The same is quite likely true for wherever you live, and a quick google or Facebook search should pull up a list to reach out to. Is scheduling it more than you feel able to take on? Don't stress over it. If you only have space for paying whomever is on staff at the hospital, then that's completely fine too. The individual workers are likely to be talented and wonderful people, and you won't regret capturing those memories.
That's the important part, in the end. Just capture it! If the cost is a burden, you can learn some basic poses and lighting tips to do your own cell phone photo shoot. The basics are pretty common sense- but think clutter free and with good natural window light rather than artificial light. Learn how to do a tight swaddle, and always take the photo from straight on or above (don't shoot up baby's nose). I'll do a TikTok series on this one to demonstrate the techniques in a more visual way, but those are the main things to remember. There is absolutely no shame in doing these yourself. We've all been there, and those hospital bills are no joke. You can't go wrong here, truly. Just do your best and enjoy your new little one!
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