The Ultimate Guide to Picking Your Family Maternity Newborn Photographer in the Lehigh Valley, PA
Choosing the right family photographer is so much more than picking someone with a nice camera. It’s choosing the person who will freeze your family’s story, exactly as it feels right now, into images you’ll love for decades. Here in the Lehigh Valley, PA, you have tons of options, but finding a photographer who fits your family, your personality, and your vision doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Here’s your ultimate guide to choosing the perfect photographer for your next family session.
1. Choose Someone Whose Style Makes You Feel Something
Every photographer has a unique eye. Some lean bright and airy, others dark and moody, and some like many lifestyle photographers, focus on emotion and storytelling over posing.
When browsing a photographer’s portfolio, ask yourself:
- Do these images look timeless?
- Do the families feel relaxed or stiff?
- Can I imagine my family in moments like these?
If the photos make you pause, smile, or feel something in your chest.. that’s your sign.
2. Make Sure Their Personality Fits Your Family
Your photographer is going to be part of your family’s space for an hour or more. You want someone who feels comfortable, warm, and confident, especially if you have young kids, teens, pets, or a partner who would rather do anything else.
Look for someone who:
- Gives clear direction but keeps things fun
- Knows how to handle chaotic kids with patience
- Makes adults feel relaxed and natural
- Helps you forget the camera is even there
A family session should feel like a fun little outing, not a chore.
3. Check for Experience in the Lehigh Valley
The Lehigh Valley offers everything from golden fields and wooded trails to urban charm and river views. A photographer who knows the local area will already have:
- Ideal locations for your vibe
- Backup spots for rainy or crowded days
- Seasonal lighting knowledge
- Tricks for timing your session around the sun, weather, and local foot traffic
Local experience matters, and your gallery will reflect it.
4. Understand What’s Included in Their Packages
Price matters, but value matters more.
Pay attention to:
- What’s included (session length, number of images, styling help, etc.)
- Whether there’s a booking fee vs. full session fee
- How images are delivered
- Whether you get printing rights
- Any pre-session guidance or prep tools
The best photographers deliver more than pretty photos, they deliver a seamless experience.
5. Look for Someone Who Guides You Through the Entire Process
A great photographer does more than show up on shoot day.
They help you with:
- Outfit planning
- Location ideas
- Posing + prompts
- Kid-friendly tips
- How to relax and just be together
- What to expect from start to finish
If the photographer provides a clear process, it means they’ve put intention into making the experience enjoyable, not stressful.
6. Read Their Reviews (Especially the Ones Mentioning Kids!)
Leads me to my next point: Parents are honest. Reviews will tell you everything, how the photographer handled shy kids, wild toddlers, or parents who felt awkward in front of the camera.
Look for comments like:
- “My kids actually had fun!”
- “She captured real moments, not forced smiles.”
- “My partner hates photos but actually said he’d do it again.”
Those are the real green flags!! Those reviews hold value and should explain their experiences. You can see an example of my personal reviews here!
7. Trust Your Gut, It’s Your Family’s Story
At the end of the day, go with the photographer who feels right. The one whose images you can already imagine on your walls. The one who makes you feel seen, celebrated, and comfortable. The one who feels like they’ll meet your family exactly where you are in this season of life.
Family photos aren’t just pictures, they’re heirlooms. Choose someone who treats them that way.
Secure your session today and let’s turn this season of your life into timeless artwork.
