Jessica began her search for a newborn photographer in her second trimester. She declined the idea of a maternity session because overall she said she didn't really like being pregnant. I hear this sometimes, so know that you're definitely not alone in those feelings of discomfort and the changing of your body. Second trimester is a great time to start looking though, you need enough time to make the perfect decision for your family. Lots of people search for their services in different ways. Some people use web searches like Google, Bing, Duck Duck Go, etc. Some people actually still use directory platforms like Yelp. Jessica was actually referred to me by a past (and now repeat) newborn client, which is the best compliment my local Charleston clients can give me. She remembered seeing her friend's newborn pictures and really liked the quality and variety that I provided their family so she got in touch via my website. Being able to capture these milestones for local families and providing them with the best customer service and portraits I can is a must, but having a personal connection with clients via referrals is a bonus feature. 

As a Photographer myself, here are some important things to look for, ask, or determine when looking for your own photographer:

• First, determine your ideal style. Do you like the idea of an in-home session to capture your home environment or do you prefer a studio?  This is a huge factor because not every photographer has a studio, and not every photographer offers in-home sessions. And even fewer will offer the studio experience in-home. So determining exactly what style you like is a great place to start. Make sure that when browsing their portfolio it matches your vision. If you don't see what you envision move on to another. 
  
  
• Second, while browsing photographers websites (yes, their website!) I recommend either researching what information they offer on their experience, or asking what experience they have with newborns. Are the professionally trained in posing and safety? Is it important to you that they be vaccinated? Are they licensed and fully insured? While it's important to have the emotional connection to their work, it's equally important that you trust the person who is handling your new baby to keep them safe. Every photographer handling a newborn should have some experience, whether an in-person course or online and they should also have liability insurance. 
  
  
• Third, what testimonials and reviews do they have? It's important to research their reputation in the community if not found via a personal referral. Google or Facebook reviews, searching their name online, etc. All ways to make sure they are reputable and providing a great service for their past clients.