Ever dreamed of turning your newborn photography passion into profit, but froze over what to charge? I’ve been there—newbie days, stressing over pricing, worried I’d scare clients away or undervalue my work. After 10+ years and hundreds of bubs, I’ve got the super easy tips to price your newborn photography services for heart-melting shots and a thriving business that shines for years to come. These hacks work for beginners, pros, and even mums wanting to start small—whether you’re shooting at home or building a studio! My free 30-min masterclass video will have you shooting like a pro in less than 30 mins!
Why Smart Pricing Builds Your Business
The right price means happy clients, steady income, and stunning shots. These hacks deliver:
- Fast: 5 mins to set prices—no endless math.
- Easy: Just a notebook—no fancy tools needed!
- Wow: Profitable gigs—mums save memories, pros get happy customers!
Others might say you need complex packages or high rates—nah, my way’s simple, and nails it. Let’s price those newborn shoots!
1. Start with Simple Packages
Struggle: Confusing prices turn clients off.
Fix: Offer 1–2 packages to keep it clear, scheduling shoots at 9-9.30am when bubs settle best (pic below of a cozy newborn session!). When starting out, try a $100 mini session (20 mins, 4 digital files). Tell clients prices will rise soon (e.g., ‘Book now, prices increase next month!’)” to make it actionable. For pros, add a mini session and full session option. E.g. mini could be 30 minutes with 10 digital files, full session 1 hour with 15 files. This is a great option for those who cannot afford your full session – as you would run the mini session cheaper.
Tip: Name packages warmly, like “Tiny Toes Mini” or “Cuddle Glow Full,” for a timeless vibe!
2. Cover Your Costs
Struggle: Low prices lose money.
Fix: List basics—travel, props (e.g., neutral or earthy-toned wraps), editing time. For beginners, $20/hour covers a quick shoot. For pros as a baseline, factor in $50/hour for skill and equipment. Use free apps like Snapseed initially to edit your photos if costly editing software is not within your reach yet.
How much to Charge: Pricing can be a very individual thing. If you are booking out solid – this is a great sign to increase your pricing. You don’t want a 100% booking rate. Receiving some No’s is a great sign of balance and you’ll attract more clients who appreciate you.
When first starting out my advice is don’t start too cheap! You risk clients not taking you seriously or worse – not showing up for their session! Treat it like a business – get clients to pay for their session prior or pay a booking deposit to show they are committed.
From my experience charging anything under $100 (unless is a 15-20 minute mini session with limitations e.g. baby only, not full family) risks attracting those who don’t value your work and end up being demanding clients who are hard to please.
Tip: Add $10–$20 for gas if shooting locally—it adds up!
3. Test with Model Calls
Struggle: No clients to test prices.
Fix: Run a “model call” for free shoots to build your portfolio. Post in local Facebook groups: “2 FREE Newborn Model Call Shoots for May! DM name, email, phone, baby’s DOB, photo. Closes [date].” Offer 4 free digital files, then upsell all files for $100+, (pic below of a model call sibling shot). Get consent to share pics.
Tip: Tag a newborn clothing brand for extra buzz—they’ll love the shoutout!
4. The Pro Secret – The Profit Lock (Tease!)
Struggle: Prices don’t grow your biz.
Fix: Here’s my trick: start low, test with model calls, and raise rates as your portfolio glows—my method made me profitable in months! My $27 Mobile Presets polish your mobile phone shots for pro portfolios, inspired by my 10+ years perfecting bubs! For calming bubs, my $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course shares magic, inspired by Sheyne Rowley, the Australian Baby Whisperer—read it here!
Tip: Want more? My free masterclass will have you shooting like a pro in 30 mins—click below!
Level Up with My Free Masterclass!
These hacks are your pricing starters, but want pro-level secrets for shooting? My free masterclass for at-home shots covers:
- Posing hacks—cute curls, safe and simple.
- Lighting hacks—no gear, just glow.
- Baby-calming moves—peaceful shots every time.
It’s 30 minutes to stunning pics—phone or DSLR—mums save memories, pros get happy customers! Join the free video here—you’ll be hooked!
My $179 course (reg. $359, worth $579) covers 0-12 months, tricky toddlers, messy homes, and more—and sleep tips from The Gentle Sleep Specialist Tara for the first 3 months of your baby’s schedule. Or snag my $27 Mobile Presets—pro editing skills that work right from your phone!
