Why Are Newborn Photoshoots So Expensive? The Hidden Costs Revealed

Maternity
Jan 10, 2020
4 min read

Updated: May 18

Bringing a baby into this world is a miracle — and preserving those first few magical days through photography has become an essential part of modern parenting. But if you've recently inquired about a newborn photoshoot in Kolkata, chances are you've been met with prices ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹40,000 or more, leaving you wondering: “Why are newborn photoshoots so expensive?”

In this in-depth, Kolkata-specific guide, we break down the real costs, what goes behind the scenes, and why this seemingly high price is, in fact, an investment in priceless memories.

Quick Overview: What is a Newborn Photoshoot?

A newborn photoshoot is a professional photography session for babies aged 5–20 days. During this window, newborns are usually very sleepy, allowing photographers to pose them safely and creatively in adorable setups.

The Pricing Puzzle – Why It Seems Expensive

Let’s start by confronting the big question:

“Why does a 2-3 hour baby shoot cost as much as a weekend trip?”

Here’s what you’re really paying for — and it's far more than just “clicking photos.”

9 Hidden Costs Behind Every Newborn Photoshoot in Kolkata

1. Specialized Equipment & Props

Custom lighting setups safe for babies
Premium DSLR and mirrorless cameras with soft lenses
Designer props (baskets, wraps, headbands, wooden beds)
Sanitized accessories made from baby-safe materials

“Most of our newborn props are imported or hand-crafted. Even a single wool wrap can cost ₹1,500+,” says Ankita Bose, a Kolkata-based baby photographer.

2. Extensive Training & Certification

Newborn photographers undergo safety training
Posing a newborn requires expert anatomical knowledge
Baby-led posing must avoid stress on spine, hips, or neck

3. Time and Patience

A typical session may last 2 to 5 hours
Much of this time is spent soothing, feeding, and comforting the baby — not shooting
Patience is key, and only experienced professionals know how to read baby cues

4. Post-Production Magic

High-end editing software (like Adobe Lightroom & Photoshop) used
Each photo may take 15–45 minutes to retouch (skin softening, tone correction, background blur)
Final delivery usually includes 10–25 fully edited images

5. Studio Maintenance

A fully sanitized, temperature-controlled studio is critical for newborn comfort
Props need regular cleaning and replacement
Studios must follow strict hygiene protocols, especially post-COVID

6. Assistant & Team Support

Most newborn sessions involve an assistant to help with baby safety and setup
Larger studios often have in-house editors, stylists, or infant care professionals

7. Scheduling & Limited Slots

Only 1–2 sessions per day due to time demands
Photographers often block off entire days for each newborn shoot
Slots are limited, especially in peak seasons (October to February) in Kolkata

8. Insurance & Business Costs

Professional photographers invest in business licenses, liability insurance, equipment insurance, and more
Overheads also include website maintenance, software subscriptions, marketing, and transport

9. Customized Experience

Each newborn is unique — themes are personalized to client preferences
Premium studios in Salt Lake, Ballygunge, or New Town offer curated packages with luxury touches like keepsake albums, nameplates, or video montages

Newborn Photography Cost Breakdown (Kolkata 2025)

Package Type	Price Range (Kolkata Avg.)	Inclusions
Basic Studio Shoot	₹8,000 – ₹15,000	1 theme, 5 edited images, no prints
Standard Shoot	₹15,000 – ₹25,000	2 themes, 10+ edited images, props included
Premium Shoot	₹25,000 – ₹40,000+	3+ setups, props, family portraits, albums
Home Session	₹12,000 – ₹22,000	Portable setup, 1-2 backdrops, travel charges

Pro Tip: Maternity Photographer Kolkata offer early booking discounts if confirmed during pregnancy. Ask about maternity + newborn combo packages.

Part 4: What Makes Newborn Photography in Kolkata Unique?

Cultural Themes

Use of traditional dhoti-kurta, shola mukut, paan pata in setups
Bengali-style Annaprashan and Godh Bharai additions

Popular Studios

Baby Tales by Riya (Salt Lake)
Bundle of Joy Studio (Behala)
The Baby Era (Park Street)
Pixel Stories Baby Studio (New Town)

Weather Considerations

Most Kolkata parents prefer indoor, AC studio shoots during humid summer or monsoon
Winter months (November to January) are ideal for natural light home shoots

Is It Worth the Investment?

Absolutely. Here's why:

Newborns change rapidly — you’ll never get these first-week sleepy poses again
Professional images can be preserved for generations
Baby-safe conditions ensure your child’s comfort and well-being
It’s one of the few times you’ll be in the picture as a new parent

Questions to Ask Before Booking a Newborn Photographer in Kolkata

Are you trained in newborn safety?
How many setups/themes are included?
Is the studio baby-proof and air-conditioned?
Are props sanitized and baby-friendly?
Can siblings or parents be included in the shoot?
What happens if the baby is fussy or unwell?
What is the refund or reschedule policy?
Do you offer albums or print packages?

Real Parent Experiences from Kolkata

“I was initially hesitant about spending ₹20,000 on a shoot, but when I saw the final images — my daughter wrapped in soft pink swaddles with a tiara — I cried. Worth every rupee.” – Piyali Das, South Kolkata

“We did a home shoot in New Alipore. The team brought their own lighting and props. My wife and baby didn’t even need to step out — super professional!” – Arindam Ghosh, New Alipore