Why does the price of newborn photos vary so much?

The difference between budget amounts of 30,000 yen, 50,000 yen, and 80,000 yen

"I want to preserve this once in a lifetime moment for my child in the best possible way."

However, when I looked up the prices for newborn photos, I was shocked.

Why is there such a big difference between 10,000 yen and 100,000 yen?


Are you feeling this way now in your late pregnancy?


"What if something happens to the baby on a cheap plan?"

"But if it's too expensive, I'm worried about future childcare costs."

"How much does everyone actually spend?"



I have been a newborn photographer for eight years and have photographed over 1,200 families.

We conducted a detailed survey of 150 mothers who had actually had their newborn photos taken.


As a result, the truth of the price difference became clear.

We will tell you how to make a choice you won't regret.


If you read to the end, you will surely think, "Oh, so that's why it costs this much!"

You'll be convinced and be able to make the right choice for your home.

What's the secret behind the 10,000 yen newborn photo?

Baby in selfie

Three reasons why you're at risk

"If it's cheap and I can take cute photos..." Wait a moment before making that decision

"If you can get newborn photos for 10,000 yen, isn't that enough?"

If you're researching online while pregnant, that's what you might think.

But as a midwife, there is something I absolutely want to tell you.


The 10,000 yen is mostly for costumes and accessories for self-photography.

In other words, it is the parents themselves who are taking the photos.



[Reason for danger 1] Newborn baby's neck is not strong enough

At two weeks old, your baby's neck muscles are not yet fully developed.

Positions such as the "chin-resting pose" can put strain on your neck if you do not provide support.


[Reason for Danger 2] Unable to regulate body temperature

Newborn photos often involve the subject being naked or wearing light clothing during the shoot.

Controlling the room temperature and adjusting the shooting time is more difficult than an amateur might imagine.


[Reason for danger 3] Not noticing changes in breathing

There is a risk that you will get so caught up in cute poses that you miss changes in your baby's breathing.

Professionals always check their breathing while filming.



"But I often see cute self-taken photos on social media..."


In fact, many "selfie-like" photos are actually taken by professionals.

I've been in this industry for eight years and have seen trouble caused by filming that neglects safety.

Considering the safety of my newborn child,

It's probably a wise choice to leave it to the professionals.

Why the 30,000 yen plan is the most popular

Safety revealed by a survey of 150 experienced mothers

The perfect balance of satisfaction

What is the "realistic decision" that everyone chooses?

"Isn't 30,000 yen a lot? But do other people really spend that much?"

A survey of 150 experienced mothers revealed that:

The fact was that 42% chose "20,000 to 30,000 yen."


Why is this price range so popular?



Reason 1: The minimum standard for receiving professional safety management

For 30,000 yen, you can hire a photographer with more than two years of experience in newborn photography.

You will be assisted by professionals who have mastered the basics of handling babies.


Reason 2: Covers all basic photography

Swaddling poses, naked poses, family photos, etc.

You can have all the standard newborn photo shoots taken.


Reason 3: Data delivery allows you to use it freely later

You will receive 30 to 50 pieces of data,

It can be used for various purposes such as New Year's cards, social media, gifts for grandparents, etc.



Let's hear from moms who actually chose the 30,000 yen plan.


"At first I thought, 'Can't we make it cheaper?

However, since this is a photo shoot of a newborn baby, safety comes first.

In the end, I was very happy with the photos I got, which were even better than I expected.

I don't think I'll ever regret this investment." (28 years old, mother of first child)


However, there are limitations even with the 30,000 yen plan.

Don't expect highly artistic poses or a wealth of accessories.

However, if your goal is to "preserve the natural beauty of your child,"

It will provide you with more than enough quality.

What changes when it becomes 50,000 yen?

The overwhelming difference of twice the number of shots and over 5 years of experience as a photographer

"Can a difference of just 20,000 yen really make such a big difference?"

"Will just increasing the price from 30,000 yen to 50,000 yen make that much of a difference?"

This is a question that many expectant mothers have.

To put it simply, this 20,000 yen difference is "bigger than you might imagine."


Because when it comes to the price range of 50,000 yen or more,

This is because it clearly changes the photographer's "rank."



Change 1: Approximately double the number of shots

30,000 yen plan: 30-50 sheets → 50,000 yen plan: 60-80 sheets

You can take plenty of photos of your baby's various expressions and angles.


Change 2: The photographer's experience is far superior

In many cases, the photographers in charge are veteran photographers with over five years of experience.

Their skills in soothing babies and capturing the best shots are what make them different.


Change 3: Allows for artistic poses

We can also take "artistic" newborn photos like those you see in magazines.

However, safety always comes first.



These are the impressions of a mom who actually chose the 50,000 yen plan.


"I asked for 30,000 yen for the first child and 50,000 yen for the second child.

It's not the same photographer, so a simple comparison is not possible,

The 50,000 yen one was clearly a work of art.


What particularly impressed me was the way the photographer interacted with the baby.

It magically stopped me from crying,

I was able to keep a calm expression throughout the shoot." (31 years old, mother of second child)


However, it is also important to consult with your finances.

There's no rule that says, "It absolutely has to be 50,000 yen."

Choose according to your values ​​and budget.

This is the most important point.

The truth about the 80,000 yen high-end plan

The true value of accompanying a midwife, visiting a maternity hospital, and art photography

"Is 80,000 yen too expensive? Or is it a reasonable price?"

"Is it worth spending 80,000 yen to take newborn photos?"

To be honest, many moms are hesitant to see this price.

However, many people are convinced once they learn what the 80,000 yen plan includes.


First of all, at this price range, the "quality of service" changes fundamentally .



【Feature 1 of the 80,000 yen plan】A staff member with midwifery qualifications will accompany you

Managing your baby's health and adjusting feeding times, etc.

Support from staff with medical knowledge gives you peace of mind.


[Feature 2 of the 80,000 yen plan] On-site photography at maternity hospitals is available

Since the photos can be taken at the hospital before discharge, they capture the baby's most newborn appearance at 3 to 5 days after birth.

Shooting during this period is only possible with a premium plan of 80,000 yen or more.


【Feature 3 of the 80,000 yen plan】Album production included

Usually, album production is included, which costs an additional fee (20,000 to 30,000 yen),

The actual cost difference may be smaller than you think.



These are the comments of a mom who actually chose the 80,000 yen plan.


"At first I thought, 'It's too expensive.' But it was my third and last child, so

I decided to splurge, and it turned out to be a great decision!


The shoot at the hospital was truly invaluable, and the "newborn feeling" on the third day after birth was

It's something you can never recreate at home.

Although the budget of 80,000 yen is certainly large,

I think it's appropriate considering the value of lifelong memories." (34 years old, mother of third child)


However, the average cost of 80,000 yen is not suitable for all households.

Even if you choose a 30,000 to 50,000 yen plan depending on your budget,

You can take some beautiful commemorative photos.

True story! Comparison photos of the same baby

The surprising difference between 10,000 yen self-service vs. 30,000 yen on-site vs. 80,000 yen studio

How much does the finish change when the price is different?

"I understand the differences between price ranges, but how do the actual photos differ?"

To answer this question, with the consent of the mother who cooperated,

The same baby (14 days old) was photographed using different methods for comparison.



[Results of the 10,000 yen selfie photoshoot]

Cost: Costume fee 9,800 yen only

Photographer: Dad (using smartphone)

Shooting time: Approximately 30 minutes


"The photos turned out cute, but there was still an amateur feel to them.

In particular, lighting is difficult to control, and shadows can appear on the face.

The baby started crying halfway through and it took a while to calm him down."


[Results of a 30,000 yen photoshoot]

Cost: Weekday fee 28,000 yen

Photographer: Photographer with 3 years of experience

Shooting time: Approximately 90 minutes, 45 photos delivered


"I really felt the professional skills.

The timing was perfect and I was able to capture lots of natural expressions.

For the price of 30,000 yen, I'm very satisfied with this quality."


[Results of an 80,000 yen studio shoot]

Cost: 82,000 yen including album

Photographer: Newborn photographer (8 years of experience)

Shooting time: Approximately 120 minutes, delivery of 80 photos + album


"It was truly a work of art. The lighting, the composition, the baby's expression,

Everything was perfect and I was impressed with the finished product, which looked like something out of a magazine.

The cost was high, but the quality is worth it."



Key Findings: Safety Differences

The most striking thing about this comparison was the difference in "attention to safety."

You can adjust the room temperature and shooting time, which you may not have noticed when taking self-portraits.

Professionals always keep this in mind.


It's important to consider not only the price but also the safety of your baby when making your selection.

The pitfalls of cheap photographers

The reality of a 10,000 yen photographer and the crucial difference between a 50,000 yen photographer

The truth about the industry: "There's always a reason for low prices"

"Why are the costs so different even though they're the same professionals?"

What I've seen in my 8 years in the newborn photography industry

We will tell you the story behind the price difference.


In fact, there are photographers who offer services in the 10,000 yen range.

There are often "hidden risks" .



[Common patterns among 10,000 yen photographers]


Pattern 1: Technical problems due to lack of experience

A new photographer who had just started shooting lowered the going rate to attract customers.

They may not be used to handling babies and may end up making them cry.


Pattern 2: Risk of being uninsured

If you don't have professional liability insurance,

There is a possibility that you may not receive adequate compensation in the event of a problem.


Pattern 3: Low-grade equipment

Using inexpensive equipment can make a difference in the quality of your shots in a dark room.

Lighting techniques play a major role in determining the outcome of newborn photography.



On the other hand, the characteristics of photographers with a 50,000 yen market price


✓ Veteran with over 5 years of experience

Understanding the characteristics of newborns allows for safe and efficient imaging.


✓ Professionally trained

Completed midwife training on how to handle newborns and safety management courses.


✓ High-quality equipment and a wide range of accessories

Fully equipped with professional cameras and lenses, as well as a wide variety of photography accessories.


✓ Comprehensive insurance and thorough aftercare

We have insurance in place, so you can rest assured that your data will be managed safely after the shoot.



"But I'm on a limited budget..."


For such people, we recommend choosing a company that focuses not only on price but also on track record .

There are experienced photographers available for 30,000 yen,

It is possible to reduce costs by choosing weekday rates and depending on the time of year.


It's not just the low price that's important

The safety of your baby should be your number one priority.

Budgeting tips for pregnant women

How to prioritize birth expenses, baby supplies, and photography costs wisely

How should I think about managing my finances before and after giving birth?

"I want to allocate some money to newborn photos, but I have other expenses..."

As you reach the later stages of pregnancy, you start to worry about various expenses.

From my experience of seeing 1,200 families over the past eight years,

Here are some tips for good budgeting .



[Major costs and prices before and after childbirth]

・Childbirth expenses: 300,000 to 600,000 yen (*One-time childbirth and childcare allowance of 420,000 yen available)

・Baby equipment set: 150,000 to 250,000 yen

・Shrine visit photos: 30,000 to 80,000 yen

・Newborn photo: 10,000 to 100,000 yen


Of these, newborn photos are the only expense that cannot be retaken.

If you miss the first two or three weeks after birth, you will never be able to capture the same look again.



[Recommended budget allocation by monthly income]


For households with a monthly income of 300,000 yen or less: 20,000 to 30,000 yen

By taking advantage of weekday rates, you can take beautiful photos even with the basic plan.

Our basic policy is "Minimum necessary, but safe with professional techniques."


For a monthly household income of 300,000 to 500,000 yen: 30,000 to 50,000 yen

With a little leeway, you can also consider weekend rates and upgrade options.

Selected for its emphasis on balancing peace of mind and quality.


For households with a monthly income of 500,000 yen or more: 50,000 to 80,000 yen

We are also considering providing a full range of services, including art photography and album production.

The idea is "The highest quality for lifelong memories."



Key points for smart budgeting


Here are some testimonials from moms who have actually been good at budget planning.


"When I was eight months pregnant, my husband and I made a list of 'baby-related expenses.'

It was at that time that I realized that newborn photography is something that can only be done now.


You can buy more strollers and clothes later,

The first three weeks of life are crucial for newborn photography.

So I'm really glad that we had a budget of 40,000 yen for our house." (30-year-old office worker, mother)


Costs that should not be cut: Safety-related items

Costs you can afford to cut: decorative options


If you use this standard, you will be able to make a decision you won't regret.

Tokyo vs. the countryside: 1.5 times the price difference

Why are prices different by region, even though they are the same service?

"Is it cheaper in rural areas? Or are there fewer options?"

"I hear Tokyo is expensive, but how much is it actually?"

As a result of investigating the nationwide price range,

The price difference between regions was much larger than I had imagined .



[Newborn photo price range by region (on-site photoshoot, weekdays)]


Tokyo: 40,000 to 60,000 yen

Because there is a lot of competition, the quality of service is high and there are plenty of options.

However, transportation and parking fees may be charged separately.


Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka: 30,000 to 50,000 yen

It's slightly cheaper than Tokyo and there are many high-quality photographers.

The most balanced price range among local cities.


Other regional cities: 25,000 to 40,000 yen

The fees are low, but there may not be many photographers specializing in newborns.

It is especially important to check the track record in advance.


Suburban and mountainous areas: 20,000 to 35,000 yen

This is the cheapest option, but transportation costs can be expensive.

If you are outside the travel area, be aware of additional charges.



Why are there such regional differences?


Reason 1: Differences in fixed costs

Photographers in Tokyo have high fixed costs such as rent and transportation costs,

This needs to be reflected in the price.


Reason 2: Competitive Landscape

In urban areas, there is a lot of competition, so the competition to improve services is fierce.

As a result, the products tend to be "high quality but high price."


Reason 3: Differences in demand

Newborn photography is more widely known in urban areas.

There is a strong tendency for people to spend money to take good photos.



We will introduce the experiences of mothers living in rural areas.


"I live in Yamagata Prefecture. There are few newborn specialists in the prefecture.

At first, I considered going all the way to Sendai.

But when I asked a local photographer,

I got some great photos taken for 28,000 yen.


The low price is attractive, but please discuss it in advance.

It's important to check their experience in newborn photography." (29-year-old mother living in the countryside)


A smart choice in the countryside

・We value not only low prices but also track records and experience

・Compare and consider total prices including transportation costs

・Include major cities in neighboring prefectures as options


No matter where you live, make sure your baby's safety is your top priority.

Real experiences of mothers who regretted their marriage

Too cheap and a failure, too expensive and a strain on the household budget, and just right stories

"I want to hear the honest opinions of the people who actually took the photos."

"Everyone says it was great, but have you had any failures?"

We bring you the honest opinions of experienced mothers, heard through photographing 1,200 couples.

I will be honest about not only my success stories but also my failures.



[Failure Story 1] I regretted using the 12,000 yen plan (25 years old, first-time mother)


"I wanted to keep it as cheap as possible, so I hired a photographer for 12,000 yen.

However, on the day, I became worried because she clearly seemed unfamiliar with handling a baby.

As a result, I ended up crying a lot and there were few photos that I was satisfied with.


My mistake was that I jumped at the low price and didn't check their experience or track record.

Looking back, I should have spent another 10,000-20,000 yen and asked a proper professional to do it."


[Failure Story 2] 90,000 yen made my household finances difficult (28 years old, mother of a second child)


"I was satisfied with 30,000 yen for my first child, so I splurged on the 90,000 yen plan for my second child.

The photos were certainly amazing, but it caused some financial hardship afterwards...


This means cutting back on the budget for childcare items and strollers.

I'm a little regretful that I spent too much money on the photos.

I wish I had been more careful about how I allocated my budget."


[Success Story 1] Very satisfied with 35,000 yen (30 years old, first-time mother)


"I did thorough research while I was pregnant and chose a photographer with a good reputation who would charge 35,000 yen.

The price was within our budget, the photography skills were impeccable, and the way they handled the baby was perfect.


You will be given data for 50 images, and you can print out your favorite 10 images yourself.

We were able to complete the newborn photos we had envisioned for a total cost of less than 40,000 yen!

I'm really glad I found the perfect fit."


[Success Story 2] Satisfied with the 50,000 yen weekday plan (32 years old, mother of third child)


"As this was my last birth, I decided to take the plunge and go for the 50,000 yen plan.

This was the weekday rate, so it was 50,000 yen instead of 65,000 yen on weekends.


The photographer was very experienced and took 80 beautiful photos.

My whole family has watched it over and over again, and we're glad that this investment was such a good one.

It was a memory worth more than the price.”



Three lessons to avoid regrets


These testimonials reveal:


Lesson 1: There's always a reason for a price that's too low

Lesson 2: If it's too expensive, it will affect your finances later on.

Lesson 3: Gathering information in advance is the key to success


Finding the "just right" that fits your values ​​and budget is key.

This is the most important point.

5 Tips to Cut Costs in Half

How to save money wisely with weekday discounts, referral systems, and monitor recruitment

"Is there a way to shoot at a cheaper price with the same quality?"

"I want to take newborn photos, but I want to keep costs as low as possible."

For such moms, here's what I learned from my 8 years of experience in the industry

Here are five tips to significantly reduce your bill .



[Trick 1] Get up to 15,000 yen off weekday rates

Weekend rate: 50,000 yen → Weekday rate: 35,000 yen (save 15,000 yen)

Many photographers offer weekday discounts.

If you're on maternity leave, you can shoot on weekdays.


[Trick 2] Get 5,000 to 10,000 yen off with the referral system

Discounts are available for referrals from mommy friends who have already taken photos.

If you search for "Newborn Photo Introduction" on social media,

You might even find a mom who will help you.


[Trick 3] Get half price or less by recruiting monitors

If you are looking for a new photographer to be a monitor, you can shoot for 10,000 to 20,000 yen.

However, be sure to check their track record and profile beforehand.


[Trick 4] Off-season rates (summer/winter)

Prices tend to be lower in July to August and December to January, when there are fewer births.

If you are planning to give birth during this period, the cost will be 5,000 to 10,000 yen cheaper than usual.


[Trick 5] Save 20,000-30,000 yen with a data-only plan

If you only need data without creating an album, costs can be significantly reduced.

You can also create your own album later.



We will introduce some success stories of moms who have actually used these tricks.


"When I was eight months pregnant, I took advantage of the weekday rate + referral discount.

A plan that would normally cost 55,000 yen is now 38,000 yen!

I saved 17,000 yen and was able to use the money to buy baby supplies.


In fact, it was good to have the shoot on a weekday, as it allowed me to take it easy after giving birth.

The photographer has more time than on weekends,

I feel like the photos were taken carefully." (27-year-old office worker/mother)


Things to note when saving


However, when trying to save money, keep the following in mind:


・Don't compromise on safety (Choose a professional who costs at least 30,000 yen or more)

・ Always check the track record when taking monitor photos

・Confirm the data delivery format and number of pages in advance

Be sure to check the cancellation policy


Save money and get the newborn photos you've always dreamed of!

Best choice diagnosis by budget

Optimal solutions for 20,000 yen, 35,000 yen, 50,000 yen, and 80,000 yen

So, which plan is best for my budget?

I've looked at a lot of information, but what should I choose?

We've put together the best solutions for you based on your budget.

We will introduce the "best choice" and "satisfaction prediction" for each budget.



[Budget 20,000 yen range: cost-effective plan]

Recommended: Weekday on-site photography 25,000 to 28,000 yen

Satisfaction Prediction: ★★★☆☆ (75%)


✓ Basic poses (swaddling, nude, family photo)

✓ Shooting time: 60-90 minutes, delivery: 30-40 photos

✓ Photographer with 2-3 years of experience


This plan is suitable for:

"It's enough if I can get it taken safely by a professional" "Budget is the top priority"


[Budget: 35,000 yen: Balanced plan]

Recommended: Weekday on-site photography 32,000 to 38,000 yen

Satisfaction Prediction: ★★★★☆ (85%)


✓ Basic poses + alpha variations

✓ 90 minutes shooting time, 40-50 photos delivered

✓ Photographer with 3-5 years of experience

✓ Wide variety of accessories and costumes


This plan is suitable for:

"We value the balance between quality and price" "We expect a standard finish"


[Budget: 50,000 yen: Quality-oriented plan]

Recommended: Weekend photoshoots for 48,000 to 52,000 yen

Satisfaction Prediction: ★★★★★ (92%)


✓ Artistic poses are also supported

✓ Shooting time: 120 minutes, delivery: 60-80 photos

✓ Experienced photographer with over 5 years of experience

✓ Premium accessories and costume set


This plan is suitable for:

"I'm looking for a magazine-like finish" "I want more photos"


[Budget: ¥80,000: Premium Plan]

Recommended: Studio photography + album production 75,000 to 85,000 yen

Satisfaction Prediction: ★★★★★ (95%)


✓ Fully professional studio photography

✓ Shooting time: 150 minutes, delivery: 80-100 photos

✓ Newborn photographer

✓ High-quality album production included

✓ Midwife accompaniment service (some)


This plan is suitable for:

"I want the highest quality work" "I want the album as a finished product"



Here are some examples of actual selections.


"At first, I was considering 50,000 yen, but after discussing my finances, I decided on 35,000 yen.

In the end, the quality was more than enough, so this decision was the right one!

I bought a baby ring with the 15,000 yen I saved and had my photo taken with it.

It made for a more memorable photo." (29 years old, first-time mother)


The key to avoiding regrets is to choose the best option within your budget.

6 questions to find your budget

How to choose without regret based on your financial situation, values, and hopes

Ultimately, what is the right budget for me?

I have provided you with a lot of information so far,

Ultimately, it's important to decide based on your own values .


Answer the following six questions:

Find the budget that's right for you.



[Question 1] What is your household financial situation?

A. Over 50,000 yen is difficult → Budget 20,000 to 30,000 yen

B. Around 50,000 yen is fine → Budget 30,000 to 50,000 yen

C. 80,000 yen is fine → Budget 50,000 to 80,000 yen


[Question 2] What are your values ​​regarding photography?

A. It's enough to keep a record → Budget 20,000-30,000 yen

B. I want beautiful photos → Budget 30,000 to 50,000 yen

C. Expecting something of artistic quality → Budget 50,000 to 80,000 yen


[Question 3] What is your level of anxiety about filming?

A. No particular worries → Budget 20,000-30,000 yen

B. I'm a little worried, but it's okay → Budget: 30,000-50,000 yen

C. I'm very worried and want to leave it all to you → Budget 50,000-80,000 yen


[Question 4] How many photos would you like to take?

A. About 30 sheets is enough → Budget 20,000 to 30,000 yen

B. I want about 50 pieces → Budget: 30,000 to 50,000 yen

C. I want more than 80 pieces → Budget 50,000 to 80,000 yen


[Question 5] Why is an album necessary?

A. Data is enough → Budget 20,000 to 50,000 yen

B. Either is fine → Budget 30,000 to 60,000 yen

C. I absolutely want the album → Budget: 60,000-80,000 yen


[Question 6] When will the baby be born?

A. Summer and winter (off season) → 5,000 yen off the regular budget

B. Spring and Autumn (during the season) → Regular budget

C. Nothing in particular → Regular budget



[Diagnosis results]


If you have a lot of As → A solid plan of 20,000 to 30,000 yen

If you are a realist who wants to keep costs down while ensuring safety,

We recommend the basic plan for on-site photography on weekdays.


Those with a high B income → Balance plan of 30,000 to 50,000 yen

If you value the balance between quality and price,

You can expect to be very satisfied with the results at this price range.


For those with many Cs → Premium plan for 50,000 to 80,000 yen

"I want to leave the best quality memories"

You'll get a finish that's worth the investment.



Lastly, an important message


No matter what budget you choose, the love for your child remains the same.

Whether it's 20,000 yen or 80,000 yen, the feelings I have at that moment are the same.


The important thing is to make a choice that suits your values ​​and your budget.

Make decisions you won't regret.


The first commemorative photo with the newborn baby

I hope it will be a wonderful memory for you.