Do Newborn Photographers Offer Digital Only Newborn Photography Packages?
If you’re expecting a baby and researching newborn photographers, you may be asking: Do newborn photographers offer digital only newborn photography packages?
In 2025, the answer is yes—most professional newborn photographers do offer digital only newborn photography packages. Digital images are now a standard part of the photography industry, and many studios offer digital-only newborn photography packages or collections that include digital files with optional print products.
Understanding what “digital only” really means, what the long-term pros and cons are, and help you choose the best option for your family.
What Are Digital Only Newborn Photography Packages?
Digital only newborn photography packages typically include:
- A set number of fully edited digital images
- Delivered via online gallery or digital download
- Printing rights so families can print images on their own
Many photographers also offer prints, albums, and wall art as optional add-ons, allowing parents to customize their experience based on budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Because families share images online, store photos on phones, and send pictures to loved ones instantly, digital-only packages have become very popular.
Why Digital Only Newborn Photography Packages Are So Common
We live in a highly digital world. Parents often choose digital only newborn photography packages because:
- They want immediate access to their images
- Sharing photos with family is easy
- Digital files feel flexible and convenient
- They want “all the images” from their session
As a newborn photographer, I fully understand this appeal. In fact, I began my business offering digital-only packages, just like many photographers do today. Now I offer digital only newborn photography packages and the option to add on prints and albums. This lets families get digital images and also add customized heirloom printed photography options.
The Downside of Digital Only Newborn Photography Packages
The most common issue families face with digital-only newborn photography packages is that the images:
- The digital images never get printed
- They up lost, damaged, or inaccessible as technology changes or becomes obsolete
- They are only viewed occasionally on a phone screen
Backing up digital images using cloud storage and multiple devices is an important step that I strongly recommend. But even with backups, digital files rely on constantly changing technology.
Printed photographs do not. Photographic prints last much longer and once they are printed no longer need anything special to enjoy them. I have pictures of grandparents that are almost 100 years old at this point.
Why Many Parents Still Choose to Add Prints to their Digital Only Newborn Photography Packages
There is something special about holding a photograph or flipping through a newborn album.
Advantages to printed photographs:
- Outlast technology
- Can be enjoyed by multiple people at the same time
- Become part of a child’s everyday environment
Research has shown that children who grow up in homes with displayed family photos often have higher self-esteem and a stronger sense of belonging. Seeing themselves represented on the walls of their home matters.
This is why many parents who initially choose digital only newborn photography packages later decide to add a few professional prints from their session.
Quality Over Quantity in Newborn Photography
One thing I wish more parents understood during the booking process is this:
A few meaningful printed images often bring more long-term joy than hundreds of digital files stored on a hard drive.
That said, I also respect that many parents prefer digital images and want access to as many photos as possible. There is nothing wrong with valuing digital convenience. What matters is choosing intentionally and the package that is best for your family.
Is a Digital Only Newborn Photography Package Right for You?
A digital only newborn photography package may be a good fit if:
- You plan to print images yourself
- You are committed to backing up your files properly
- You primarily enjoy photos digitally
You may want to consider adding prints if:
- You want images that last generations
- You want your child to see their photos daily
- You don’t want to risk losing irreplaceable memories
Final Thoughts on Digital Only Newborn Photography Packages
Digital only newborn photography packages are widely available and can be a great option for many families. The key is understanding both the convenience and the responsibility that comes with digital files.
Newborn photos are not just for today—they are for your child’s future. Whether you choose digital only, prints, or a combination of both, the most important thing is preserving those memories in a way that truly serves your family long-term.
If you are overwhelmed picking a newborn photographer, this blog post may help narrow it down more than if they offer digital images or not.
