babyblog

Send 'em an invoice for your time, seeing as it was on false pretences... I reckon abut $1000 should do it, which will enable you to get some decent photos done by someone you choose.

I wish I had been as smart as you. I had the same problem... I gave in and ended up spending 100 bucks.. the guy would not leave I tried so hard. He was horribly pushy, and I was super uncomfortable. I wish I had listended to my father before spending that kind of money on 7 little pictures. I think I am going to call the BBB and make a complaint and see if many have been made.

GOod morning! I wanted to say that I have had the MOST PLEASANT experiences with Canadian Baby, and the BEST of portraits! I have only ever purchased the proofs (which are 3x5, not tiny small pictures).

The photographer that came was professional, didn't seem pushy at all, nor was the guy that returned to show us the pictrures etc. he did a WONDERFUL job with my children, and they are returning today to take pictures of my 3rd child :)

When they did call my house last week, they did say theyw ere coming to take pictures, and let me know what I had to do to be ready for them!

Kudos to the good people of this local Canadian Baby!! (I don't know where you are.. I'm in the Niagara Region...)

KA

I willl never ever tell anyone to use this company. I had a very similar experience. A photographer named Mark arrived at my door. I felt good for a bit and was enjoying myself. Then he put his hard roughly on Emmas arm and hurt her she began to cry, he responded some babies are not good for pictures, Blamed her can you imagine,
I told him it was over and he needed to leave. He then told me the session was over because Emma was not co operating. He left a bruise on her arm, but it was her fault she was crying. I called the managet to complain they offered free pictures and then called back to say ooopssy he deleated them. What a SCAM!!!!!

I had a wonderful photographer,however the guy that was suppose to show up with my pictures,never came, no phone call nothing.I called the office for a week no return call.She finally calls today saying the driver had lost my address.Wouldn't it be better to call the customer back then to leave them hanging wondering what had happened?

My wife and I had portraits done of both our children and both times the photographer was courteous and not at all pushy. Our problem now is that after spending a good amount of money, our photos are overdue by a week, with no call to us to explain why the package would be overdue, or how long before we would get our photos.

This is interesting. I have had a horrible experience with them as well and I thought I was the only one. To start off with they called me several times when I finally agreed, (my baby was 4 months old then) this photographer "Mr.Smoke" shows up -- smelling of cigarette smoke - I couldnt stand it let alone my baby -- made her pose while she was crying and would just wipe off her tears right before clicking the shot...
I thought that was probably normal procedure, anyways baby didnt like him and the crying got worse so he decided to call it off and come some other time and take the pictures.. I asked if he could save some that went well - he says "no" have to put the baby though the whole thing again --
I get another appointment after a week or so.. he shows up an hour late and says no one was home...
then after a few weeks they call again.. I told them i didnt want "Mr.Smoke", she says and I quote "oh Mr.Smoke went bye-bye" as if i am some kid!
Then this lovely lady shows up does an awesome job (I thought - wow i am going to get each one of these pictures)
I get a call in a week that the computer crashed and they will have to redo the takes! (WHAT!)
Then she comes back after a week and then baby is too sleepy cause its around noon time...
I call them again... no appointment till few more weeks ... now they then call me and tell me the day before and let me know that "mr. smoke" will show up on so and so time.. I say wait a minute i thought "he went bye-bye" then they say they will call me back ...
today they called me and said the lady is coming tomorrow again around noon time... well i keep telling them noon doesnt work for my baby!
I accidently came across this webpage while looking for their phone number... i think after reading the above stories i am just going to call the whole thing off! My baby is now almost six months old!

I will be forever grateful that Canadian Baby initiated the call and offered to take pictures of our children. We have always had great experiences because these photographers know what they are doing. When the salesman returned with the pictures we were excited to see the results and were not disappointed. Our children except for one are now teenagers. Those precious baby months are history, but the pictures are so dear and so worthwhile. For those of you who are complaining so bitterly what are you going to grab on your way out of the house when its engulfed in flames and you have made sure that everyone is out safe. I bet it will be the memories.

A cynic might say it looks as though Canadian Baby Photographer employees are posting 'aren't they wonderful' messages , might he? :-)

I just want to say that i had my son's pictures taken by canadian baby and i also have to say that the men that called my and came to my house were very nice gentlemen they were not at all pushy or rude by any means i also have to say that my son doesnt smile for anyone in pictures but the gentleman that took the shots had him smiling in every picture he actually took his time i think that the canadian baby pictures i have are beautiful i wouldnt change a thing i also spent 600 dollars on them and have absolutally no complaints (however my pictures from sears yes are just as beautiful and didnt cost a fraction of what canadian babys did all i suggest is that they lower there prices people would buy more that way)

I had a relatively good experience with the photographer except when he tried insisting that my baby was hungry (I fed her not even an hour before) and gave me trouble for giving her a bath that morning because it tired her out (she has hair like you wouldn't believe, completely necessary to bath her before portraits). Also, he picked up the guitar leaning against our wall without asking if that was okay, so come to think of it, it wasn't the greatest experience. I also would have really liked to know the approximate price ranges before I spend any time with the "salesperson" but he apparently couldn't let me know that information. I was also quite disappointed with the free gift (a growth chart)

Well, I'm not surprised at all with all these comments. So I did a little investigating of my own. Well did you ever wonder how they got your name and called you? Well, I found out. Apparently, alot of the hospitals have on contract an outside company that takes the babies first picture. BEWARE. This company is located in Woodbridge and is actual a Lab known as TCN. Well guess what, Canadian Baby is taking all their work there. Well TCN is using your name and giving out your personal information to Canadian Baby and who know what other comanies. This has been a partnership for many years, as I've found out from my source. Well now the Lab has stopped processing Canadian Baby's orders, and begun to do exactly the same thing on their own. Hiring inexperience photographers, to handle your baby. Plus calling you to push the same stuff. Since the Privacy Act came in to effect, isn't there some issues that should to taken to the authorities. There are other companys out there doing the same thing. We're smart consumers so why should we put up with this. I think this very point should be brought up with the hospital you attended to create a dent in this scam. What ever happened to a reputable studio coming to your home. None of these companies has a real website. They are so elusive, they won't even give some kind of reference from other customers or even a price range of some packages. If it smells like a fish maybe it is. Does anybody know of a Professional Studio that handles babies exclusively, who will work with you over a long term period and may be willing to come to your home for the first visit?? All I have to say is BEWARE OF IMPOSTERS, do your research first.

My experience with Canadian Baby Photographers started off good and ended up worse than ever. The photographer showed up on time, was very patient with Emily and took good pictures. My problem was with the sales man who came to the house. He pulled out very expensive price sheets one by one. The first price sheet he pulled out ranged in outrageous prices. I looked at my husband and he looked red in the face looking very embarrased. I probably had the same look as I felt very embarrased also and thinking to myself I cannot afford to pay these outrageous prices. We looked at the sales man and pointed out to him that we were not expecting to pay so much money. Than he pulled out another price sheet with cheaper packages on it than the first. My eyes nearly popped outta my head wondering how many other price sheets he had in his bag that he wasn't showing us. I told him we still didn't want to spend this much money clarifying that at the most we were looking to spend $200.00. He pulled out another price sheet and acted as if that was all the price sheets. The lowest package on this price sheet was $325.00 approx. and it was the only price that included the montage. My point being is that for those of us who cannot afford the luxury of in home photographers the company needs to be very upfront with the customers. I ended up purchasing a package I simply could not afford because how do you say no when its your baby in the pictures. I felt very deceived.

My experience with Canadian Baby was great. My photos came in very sophisticated looking folders. All the photos taken were incredible. I would just like to express how I have never heard of any department store studio offering this many poses at one sitting. Department store prices are alot cheaper because the photographers are regular people like you and me taking photos with top of the line equipment so the photos don't look half bad. Professional photography companies offer more proofs and a bigger selection of pictures at higher prices because they specialize in the profession. If you want regular pictures you can go just about anywhere but for professional in home photographers and higher-end specialty studios you pay for the service. Believe me the service is not cheap either. It's better to do your research before you go anywhere!

Canadian Baby are *not* professional photography. They are a young guy with a DSLR and a backdrop and umbrella who puts your baby into pre-arranged poses (every baby into the same pose) and takes 10 mediocre-lit, mediocre-styled photo's, which cost an obscene amount of money. Department stores are the same. There's no training, no qualifications, no ART involved.

Canadian Baby are really very rude and impolite, they gave me an appointment and nevery show up and when I tried to complain the one who answered the phone refused to hear me andhanged the phone on me and when I called again and asked for her manager she told me thier are no managers right now and hanged the phone on me again , this is tottally unaccepted and I have never been to this situation before

Canadian Baby are not the perfect photographers to take pictures of your newborn. The same thing happened to me i received a call at home,just 3 or 4 weeks after my daughter was born. They told me the same thing, we have a free gift for you,in order for u to receive your free gift we will be going to your house to take some pictures. So i accepted it, the first photographer came to my house and i thought he was not so bad, well i was wrong as soon as he picked up my daughter to take the photos she started to cry,i told him that he was hurting her arms by holding her like that. He then gave up and said that she was cranky he would have to come another time. Once he left i called Canadian baby and said i do not want the same photographer to come. Not realizing i should of just called it quits,so the following week another photographer comes to my house. As he came in my house he didn't give me a good impression,he got everything ready and grabbed my daughter for pictures, well he picked her up in such a way that hurt her arms right after she started to cry. But he kept telling her to SHHHHHHHHH very loud and then made this commment "huury up baby smile i don't have all the patience for u, you have to leave some for the other babies" and then said stop crying you won't make me feel sorry, cry all you want. Well that just blew me away, I felt that it was rude just to tell him to leave, so he finished. When the sales man came to my house i told him all about it he said he would notify the office about him,never got a call for an apology. Idid order some pictures,and on the pictures my daughter had his finger marks on her arms that's how hard he held her. And let me tell you they are very expensive, i ordered because it was my daughter but i will never use their service again. The photographers name was "Vladimir" I never experienced something like this my whole life. I do not know how they are still in business.

You guys are all a bunch of cheap parents with terribly behaved kids. The montage is a classic that no Canadian family should be without. My parents have montages of me and my siblings and I haven't missed one of my children yet either. In fact, I call them instead of them calling me.

What a bunch of whiners.

I too have been contacted by Canadian Baby Photographers and they are suppossed to be coming to my house tomorrow morning. I didn't really want them to come but felt pressured into excepting. Since reading I have called and left a message to cancel. I looked this company up with the Better business bureau and they are apparently a member. They can be a member because they have not had complaints against them in the last three years. I suggest that everyone post there complaints with the bbb. There is no charge and the company will not know it is you. You can access info at http://complaint.bbb.org This not a company that should be a member of the bbb!

I had Canadian Baby in my home last week. I was not impressed, they put this chessy tarzan suit on my baby and were very pushy! I know I should have but I didn't buy any of the pictures because they did no justice. I did my research and found a very good place, Rembrandt Studios. They come to your home at no charge!!! They wanted referals more then they did my money! Prices are very reasonable considering the great work they do. I would definetly go back for family portraits and future baby pictures... They made me feel very comfortable and the photographer was EXTREMLY nice! My baby loved him :) This is the website www.wephotoyou.ca ... They are not expensive at all! They have REAL studio unlike Canadian Baby and others.

Canadian Baby are not the perfect photographers to take pictures of your newborn. They said free gift and the real price is too expensive. I asked for buy individualy, the sales then told me at least 7 pictures, that is the minimum requirments, I asked him where says 7 is the minimum, he can't answer.
Then he left and even I can't buy 4 pictures.

Forget it, Canadian Baby is not good for u.

Note from the site author.

Recently there have been a batch of positive postings about Canadian Baby Photographers. All praising the company. All insisting that people with negative experiences are being untruthful or are mistaken.

I am very surprised by the number of comments this particular entry in my blog has. Obviously there are alot of people out there who wish to comment on this company. My experience was negative. Other people who are posting here have had negative experiences. Some have had positive experiences.

I am very keen to promote free speech & happy for anyone to share their experience with me on this and any other subject I write about on my blog.

What I did notice recently, however, was that all of the recent 'positive' postings (some 6 or 7 of them) that were written were originating from the same computer and the same IP address. They all had different names, but were all very similar in style and prose (which is what prompted me to look into this).

I have, therefore, deleted the fake postings and I politely request that people use this comments section honestly & truthfully.

Thanks

Katie Jones
http://www.katie.com/babyblog

I am writing from Airdrie, I have had a great experience with Canadian Baby and my daughter, the photographer that showed up was excellant with her, as well as the salesman that came after, I am sure the pictures will be just as great as their customer service.

5 years ago, i had the HONOR of having my daughters portraits taken by Canadian Baby Photographers. I waited until she was a little older since i knew that i would be bombarded with family portraits. I had a fantastic photographer in Calgary who took the portraits. She was sincere and wanted the portraits to turn out as well. She (the photographer) was on a roll, and asked if she could take another set of portraits. I said sure, Why not. I then had the sales"woman" to the house and she was a gem as well. We knew that professional portraits cost a little more than a department store (as well as the quality), so we weren't Embarrased at the prices. Then we had the joy of showing them off on our wall.

Now that we have our 2nd daughter, we decided to do the same thing. This time, (in Whitby, Ontario) it was ME contacting Canadian Baby. I had a wonderful photographer come to our home and do the whole set up as well. Things have changed in 5 years, and now they are digital. We could see the portraits right there. How fantastic! Again, we knew what the prices would be, and had an overall FANTASTIC time. 5 years ago, and 1 year ago. Canadian Baby must be doing something right to be in business for as many years as they have been. I feel for the others who haven't had such a good time like i have.

I hope you do post this, as i am NOT an employee of Canadian Baby as you have said in your last statement that you are having postive feedback from employees. I feel sorry that you had such a terrible time with them, but does that give you the right to bash them with your negative-ism? Because of a few of you with bad experiences, think of how many out there had such wonderful experience like i have. tisk on you!

Karen

I think what is key to being happy with your photographs is understanding that there are different styles and tastes to suit different personalities.

After my baby was born, I too had them over b.c they were part of the welcome wagon package from the hospital. The guy was great but I didn't like the style of prints. I had no problems with the price but did with the policy that you had to purchase a minimum when they basically all looked the same. That prompted me to get back into photography and open my own business up.

My point is this, research the photographer, view the samples... before you have them over. Ask for referalls, amount of experience, training. I always have a preconsultation meeting with my clients to understand their needs and so that they too can also understand my photography style (which is not everyone's taste). There is no minimum to buy and my prices are available so there is no hidden surprise. Free gifts don't guarantee happy results.
Tara

I recieved a phone call from Canadian Baby about 1 month after my son was born. They wanted to come give me a free gift and to take some photos of my new baby. The date that they were in my area would'nt work for me so they said they would call back. They called me about a month and a half later and the representative would be in my area the very next day. So I reluctantly agree to an appointment time. The appointment was setup for 1:00 by 1:45 I was fed up with waiting my son had fallen asleep and I had another appointment to make. So I went on the internet to find a phone number to call Canadian Baby. I did not find a phone number for them but I did find this site and after reading these stories I was very happy that I did'nt have to go any further in this process. I would rather go to sears or Wal mart to have pictures of my son done where there will be no pressure and less hassle.

in my experience with the baby photographers i had good and bad.the man who took photos of my so some how cut himself and in one of the pic there is a littel f his blood on my sons leg.They than called to make an appointment for me to view he proofs and they phoned ad cancelled.They said they would contact me the next week to reschedule.it was a month later before i heard form them.The lady that did come to the house was very nice and considerate.We ended u ordering pictures and i am still waiting their arrival.Thepics were taken when my son was 2 month old,he is now 5 months and i am still waiting.....

in my experience with the baby photographers i had good and bad.the man who took photos of my so some how cut himself and in one of the pic there is a littel f his blood on my sons leg.They than called to make an appointment for me to view he proofs and they phoned ad cancelled.They said they would contact me the next week to reschedule.it was a month later before i heard form them.The lady that did come to the house was very nice and considerate.We ended u ordering pictures and i am still waiting their arrival.Thepics were taken when my son was 2 month old,he is now 5 months and i am still waiting.....

in my experience with the baby photographers i had good and bad.the man who took photos of my so some how cut himself and in one of the pic there is a littel f his blood on my sons leg.They than called to make an appointment for me to view he proofs and they phoned ad cancelled.They said they would contact me the next week to reschedule.it was a month later before i heard form them.The lady that did come to the house was very nice and considerate.We ended u ordering pictures and i am still waiting their arrival.Thepics were taken when my son was 2 month old,he is now 5 months and i am still waiting.....

My experience so far has been a positive one. The photographer, John, was quite professional and worked very well with Logan, who was 4 weeks old at the time. John was able to get 12 different poses with Logan smiling in all of them! He let me take a look at them before he left, and I can't wait to see them developed. He even tidied everything up before he left!
I just hope I'm not posting a negative comment when they come to show/sell the portraits.
I am glad I found this site...now I have an idea what I'm in for! Thanks.

I was a customer over 4 years ago. My wife and I had a lot of fun with canadian baby (photographers). I did buy a big package with absolutely no regrets. I am a proffessional photographer and I truly believe that these people are specialists offering a very good product.

As a photographer I can appreciate some of the comments on this site. Not every experience is going to be perfect. BABIES CRY ALOT!!!! That is why these guys are the best at what the do!! They have skill and patience that alot of you sleep deprived moms should understand.

To everybody out there, remember, there is no obligation. If the poses aren't to your particular taste just go to wal-mart. Mind you, I wouldn't bring my car there for an oil change let alone my baby!!!!!!

I don't understand these 'Canadian Baby are great' posts here. Why are people who had babies 4 yrs ago finding this site and commenting? What on earth would prompt you to search for Canadian Baby and do that? Combined with what the original author put, it stinks of attempts to garner positive publicity on the part of CBP's by getting as many people as possible to post good things.

Everyone else posting has good reason to be searching for CBP, they've just had babies or they've just had bad experiences, the so called positive ones are frankly so OBVIOUSLY FAKE that it's almost funny.

This company is not one of professional photographers, it's dodgy wal-mart-esque cheap shots done in your house at a time when you're vulnerable which are then sold to you at exhorbitant fees taking advantage of the fact that you don't want to say no to pics of your little one.

Complain to the Better Business Bureau!

I had the pleasure of having my daughters pistures done with canadian baby and I love them. The prices for the quality were well worth the money we spent. The photographers were honest about prices and very nice to have in my home. If you allowed someone in to your home for the free samples they said they would bring without asking what types of products they were bringing or knowing who they were you have no right to complain. I would never let someone who called me up not knowing who they were into my home to pt my childrens lives at risk. The baby photographers will be here next week to take my new son's pictures and I can't wait

I have no good or bad comment to make about this company because I cancelled their appointment immediately after my wife made it.

I wanted to find out how this comapny got our baby's anem and our phone number. We were careful not to share that info, so it could have only been shared by the hospital. Even when the wlecome Wagon came around we refused the phone number to avoid unwanted solicitations.

We had a baby, and it should not be used for opportunists to try to cash in on.

Canadian Baby would not give me an answer about how they got my info, only saying it was a gift from someone. Well, I am sure if someone gave me a gift, they would let me know.

So, I cancelled the appointment, they were friendly on the phone, but when I said I was not going to reschedule they said OK and hung up in my ear. Not exactly professionalism.

I find it very hard to believe all of the people who say they had pictures from years ago because the person above said, why would they even findthis site? I found it because I wanted to check them out before letting them into my home.

Some people have no shame, no honor, and no morals. If this company is legit, then why not tell people where they got thier name instead of misrepresenting that a friend of ours gave it to us as a gift? If the service is good and the pressure is not high, they would do better business and have a better REP.

One final thing, there was a user above who asks what give the blog owner the right to be negative about the company. What givesw her, and anyone else the right to complain about a bad service is that this is a free country. just like you are alloed to feel HONORED to have had someone take your baby's picture. If a bad service is received then she has every right to complain.

It's not like this is a reputable company that is honest and forthcoming is it? Nope, they are a high pressure sales company trying to take people for a ride on over priced goods.

I just had a baby and when the times comes I will take her to the department store, and if that doesn't work out, then I will go to a professional, not Canadian Baby.

Fisrt off I would like to state that I am a photographer contracted by Canandian Baby! I have been photographing for this company for 3 years now. With 5 years of professional experience before that.

I find it amsuing that people on here feel qualified to say that we are not professional photographers. While I can't personally speak on behalf of all the photographers that are contracted by the company I can speak for myself as well as 8 other photographers I have been aquainted with. We have all been formally trained in photography, usually 2-4 years at such eduactional institutions as NAIT, Langera, and Ryerson. Most of us also provide photography services aside from Canadian Baby.

Lets put things into perspective here people. Each of us photographs well over 1200 babies a year, there are bound to be some dissatisfied customers in there because, as we all know it is impossible to please everyone all the time. While it is our job to know how to photograph babies, we are not miracle workers or magicians who can make your baby smile on demand or instantly stop crying. Sometimes things just don't work out. We are only human and we do on occassion have bad days just like everyone else... computers crash, babies cry, people get lost and get behind schedule, bad timing..this is life.

As for those of you who claim that we show up under false pretenses, I apologize to you for that happening, but I can honestly say that it is rare for a mother to be unsure of what I am doing at her door. I can tell you that only twice in the last 3 years have I shown up and had a mother be unsure about what I was there for, in those situations I explain what we are about and give her the option to go ahead or not.

As for complaining about our prices....well it is up to the client to decide if they think the photos are worth it and most of our clients think they are.

Canadian babies have been having their photographs taken by this company for well over 40 years now, for a company to survive this long I think it is fairly safe to conclude that we have many more satisfied customers than not.

I didnt think they were pushy, he actually seemed nice and was very good with my son (2 months at time) the prices were extreme; totaling over $400, but I said to myself it's my first baby and it's worth it. Well the pictures came in 6 weeks like they had said, but then I was missing photo's. The ones I was supposed to be sending to family. Well I called them up and told them that I was missing them, they said sorry and said there would be a rush order on them and should be there within two weeks, well that was May 18th. Last week I called them agian and asked about them, they said they would call the main office and find out where they are and call me back, well they didn't. It is now the 13th of June and I will be calling them agian today. I am so mad these pictures are suppose to go to family and my son is getting older, soon the photos will be old news and they will want recent ones.

I too had a HORRIBLE experience with Canadian Baby Photographers. They called my home repeatedly; unfortunately, I agreed to book a photo session. The photographer who came to my home decided to rearrange my furniture without my consent (I was upstairs changing my baby), in order to fit his backdrop and lights. I was immediately put-off by this, and his attitude. He claimed to be part of the 'top 5 baby photographers in Canada'; and kept telling me how experienced he was, and how skilled he was...in the meantime, I became increasingly worried about the unnatural poses he was putting my baby in, and how frustrated she was getting. I should have stopped the session - instead, I stupidly allowed him to take his requisite number of shots. When the session was over, he handed me the promised 'gift' - sample of detergent and deoderant...what a gift. I was completely blown away, when two weeks later, a sales agent came to my home and tried to sell my husband and I a photo package costing over $600 -I nearly fell off my chair. He became increasingly aggressive and insulting when we repeatedly told him that we could not afford to purchase any of the packages (the cheapest one was still over $300). He said that "when our child is older, she'll look back on this as a great disappointment". He told us that we were really odd because less that 5% of parents refuse to purchase a photo package. He told us that we would feel awful/guilty when Monday rolled around and we realized that he was forced to shred our baby's photos. We couldn't believe the trash that was coming out of his mouth; and we told him as much and escorted him to the door. Later that day, he left us a voice mail - he was still pushing us to buy a package. My husband and I were shocked. We've never been so insulted, or experienced such high-pressure sales tactics. These people are completely unprofessional, and I would NEVER recommend them. Please don't make the same mistake we did by inviting them into our home.

I contacted the Canadian Baby Photographers Main Office and left two voice mail messages for the sales manager. Not so surprisingly, I never heard back from him. I have shared my experiences with my friends and family. I hope noone else has to experience what we did.

I can sympathize with your story. Here in Lethbridge Alberta, my wife and I had a similar experience, although the people we dealt with seemed quite nice (maybe they wouldn't have been so nice if we resisted more).

The salesperson was quite smooth using pitches like "your baby's worth it wouldn't you say?" and "grandparents love this sort of thing" etc. After we heard the enormous prices of the packages, we bought the proofs thinking we were getting a great deal. Later that day, BUYERS REMORSE, bigtime. We would never go to a store a spend this kind of money! It was $105.00 just for the 7 prints (112.35 with tax)!

Luckily I noticed on the back of the receipt (which the salesman hid in the photo album that comes with the proofs), A CANCELLATION SCHEDULE.

I don't know if all provinces force them to print this (I'm sure they are being forced to do it), but in case they don't I will quote exactly what it says...
"
BUYER'S RIGHT TO CANCEL
You may cancel this contract from the day you enter the contract until 10 days after you recieve a copy of the contract. You do not need a reason to cancel.

If you do not receive the goods or seervices within 30 days of the date stated in the contract, you may cancel this contract within one year of the contract date. You lose that right if you accept delivery after the 30 days. There are other grounds for extended cancellation. For more information, you may contact your provincial/territorial consumer affairs office.

If you cancel this contract, the seller has 15 days to refund your money and any trade-in, or cash value of the trade-in. You must then return the goods.

To cancel you must give a notice of cancellation at the address of this contract. You must give notice of cancellation by a method that will allow you to prove that you gave notice, including registered mail, fax, or by personal delivery.
"
I hope you find this helpful. I will try to cancel this order as the purchase was only 4 days ago. I'll let y'all know how it turns out.

Back in 1998 I had the same experience with this organization, I had a baby in April of this year and not learning from my past experience I was searching for their number when I came across this site, it brought back unpleasantness so now I won't be going through this again, even though I must say my baby picture in 1998 was wonderful, by the same can't be said about the photographer.

I know the Canadian baby photographers were good for my sister in law and the pictures were cute and she had nothing bad to say about the experience...However...I think they may have gotten our phone number from the numerous entries we filled out at Thyme maternity, as they called me on my Husband's cell phone, which is the number we used on the ballots. The thing that shocked me was they called me the night I delivered my baby while I was still in the hospital! "Hi this is so and so from the baby canadian photographers, we are just calling to find out if you had your baby?" I grouchily said "yes...I'm in the hospital right now!" She quickly apologized and neither me nor my husband have heard back from them since! Which I am not too upset about as I have taken better pictures myself.The funny thing is that the due date I put on those ballots was a week after the date they called me, my baby was early.

Hello all
I recently came across this site while I was searching out information on Canadian Baby Photographers prior to a job interview. I was amazed that Katie would go threw so much trouble to start a blog on her site about her distaste for this company. We all have bad experiences with a company here and there throughout our lives but do we go to the extreme and bad mouth them to death? NO. So I started thinking of the other posts in the thread and the odd bad experience, well mistakes happen and I am sure that Canadian Baby will stand up and correct them if made aware. You are not obligated to have them come to your home, they contact you, and this some would say is a convenience. They come to your home and professionally photograph your child at no charge to you, if having the photographer there is an inconvenience say no when they call. They then call and arrange a time to come back with the portraits of your child so you may view them, again at no charge to you. If the portraits are not good do not buy them, if they are you will cherish them till the day you pass. If you still think this is not a good deal contact another professional photographer and get a quote as to what it would cost to come to your home and photograph your child. You will be looking at any where from $80-$120 dollars for him or her to leave their studio if they will shoot in your home at all. As for packages you pay for the quality and longevity of the images. They are not out to fleece you for all your money if you don’t need 150 things or montages ask the portrait consultant to create a package for you to suit your needs.
The decision is yours to make.

Im a little nervous after reading these postings. The photographer just left and I went online to try and find out prices. The photographer I had was very good and the pictures seem like they will be really good but I really don't have the money to spend on pictures and I really don't need a pushy salesman in my home.
So far my experince has been good but I guess the hard part is yet to come! I'll keep you posted on the rest of my experience.

It's me again. On June 18th I wrote a comment on getting a refund. Well I got the refund after some hassel.

First, I sent both a fax and a registered letter to the Calgary office (which are both in bold print) to my surprise the registered letter came back as "no such address". I spoke with Linda from the Calgary office on June 28th, she said the fax was forwarded to the head office in Ontario, but the registered letter was sent to an old address and the salesman must be using the old receipts. I asked how I could confirm that the head office got the fax. She was helpful, told me to call Judy at 1-800-465-9383 extension 223. Judy was nice too, said they got the fax and it would be processed in a couple days (I asked her about the Calgary address, she said the same thing as Linda).

A couple days later, the credit showed up on my credit card and my wife got a call from the the comapany saying to return the photos. We sent all but one (the free one) by registered mail, to the head office. Each registered letter cost me $7.76 including tax, so I ended up paying about $15 to get back the $112. Live and learn eh.

We're new in town, so the welcome wagon is the only way they could've gotten our new address. I'm tempted to call the hospital and the welcome wagon and share my experience.

For those of you who have had less success at getting a refund than I, I reccommend contacting your provincial consumer affairs office (see below). Don't waste your time with the BBB, they look out for businesses more than consumers. Worst they can do is revoke or deny BBB member status. The BBB may publish "unresponded to" complaints (without any details attached), but not "unresolved complaints".

Hope this information has been helpful.

Regards,
Ryan

Provincial Consumer Affairs Offices
Eastern Offices

New Brunswick
Consumer Affairs Branch
Department of Justice
670 King Street
PO Box 6000
Fredericton NB E3B 5H1
Tel: (506) 462-5100
Fax: (506) 453-7483
E-mail: al@gov.nb.ca
Web site: http://www.gov.nb.ca/justice/

Newfoundland and Labrador
Consumer Affairs
Department of Government Services and Lands
2nd Floor, Confederation Building West Block
PO Box 8700
St. John's NF A1B 4J6
Tel: (709) 729-2600
Fax: (709) 729-3205
Web site: http://www.gov.nf.ca/gsl/cca/tpl/default.stm

Nova Scotia
Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations
PO Box 2502
Halifax NS B3J 3N5
Tel: (902) 424-5200
Toll Free: 1-800-670-4357
Fax: (902) 424-0720
Web site: http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/

Ontario
Ministry of Consumer and Business Services
General Inquiry Unit
35th Floor, 250 Yonge Street
Toronto ON M5B 2N5
Tel: (416) 326-8555
Toll Free: 1-800-268-1142
Web site: www.cbs.gov.on.ca

Prince Edward Island
Consumer, Corporate and Insurance Services
Office of the Attorney General
4th Floor, 95 Rochford Street
PO Box 2000
Charlottetown PEI C1A 7N8
Tel: (902) 368-4580
Toll Free: 1-800-658-1799
Fax: (902) 368-5283
Web site: http://www.gov.pe.ca

Quebec
Office de la protection du consommateur
Room 450, 400 Jean-Lesage Boulevard
Quebec QC G1K 8W4
Tel: 1-888-672-2556
Web site: http://www.opc.gouv.qc.ca

Western Offices

Alberta
Alberta Government Services
Consumer Services Branch
Floor 3, 10155&-102 Street
Edmonton AB T5J 4L4
Tel: (780) 427-4088
Toll Free (in Alberta): 1-877-427-4088
Fax: (780) 422-9106
E-mail : consumer.services@gov.ab.ca
Web site: http://www.gov.ab.ca/gs

British Columbia
Ministry of Attorney General
Community Justice Branch
Consumer Services Division
Consumer Services Head Office
5th Floor, 1019 Wharf Street
Victoria BC V8V 1X4
Mailing Address
PO Box 9297, Station Prov Govt
Victoria BC V8W 9J8
Tel: (250) 387-3045
Fax: (250) 953-3533
E-mail: consumer@ag.gov.bc.ca
Web site: http://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/consumers/

Manitoba
Consumers Bureau
Manitoba Finance
302&-258 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg MB R3C 0B6
Tel: (204) 945-3800
Toll Free: 1-800-782-0067
Fax: (204) 945-0728
E-mail: consumersbureau@gov.mb.ca
Web site: www.gov.mb.ca/finance/cca/consumb

Nunavut
Consumer Affairs
Community Government and Transportation
PO Box 440
Baker Lake NU X0C 0A0
Tel: (867) 793-3303
Toll Free: 1-866-456-2304
Fax: (867) 793-3321

Northwest Territories
Consumer Services
Community Operations Programs
Municipal and Community Affairs
Room 500, 5201&-50th Avenue
Yellowknife NWT X1A 3S9
Tel: (867) 873-7125
Fax: (867) 920-6343
E-mail: mgagnon@maca.gov.nt.ca
Web site: http://www.maca.gov.nt.ca

Saskatchewan
Consumer Protection Branch
Saskatchewan Department of Justice
1871 Smith Street
Regina SK S4P 3V7
Tel: (306) 787-5550
Toll Free (in Saskatchewan): 1-888-374-4636
Fax: (306) 787-9779
Web site: http://www.saskjustice.gov.sk.ca/cpb/default.shtml

Yukon
Department of Justice
Consumer Services Branch
PO Box 2703
Whitehorse YK Y1A 2C6
Tel: (867) 667-5111
Toll Free: 1-800-661-0408
Fax: (867) 667-3609
E-mail: consumers@gov.yk.ca

Linda, i hope you are reading this and can see that your so called salesman are nothing more than ignorant rookies. I can't see how you have been in biz 52 years with service like this. I have been waiting over 6 weeks now, same as the rest no phone calls no explanations. I wouldn't use this company or reccomand it to anyone.

I just want everyone know that I use to sub contract for Canadian baby. I quit after realizing how much people were being bothered by "some nasty salesmen". I was trying to build a good reputation in the kitchener Cambridge area. Instead, I think I was hurting my future career in photography. I can say they did give me excellent training in how to handle baby. I today manage a studio at a Zehrs and loving every minute. I have very happy repeated customers that Im proud to say I work for Zehrs. Anyone who lives near a Zehrs, Fortinos,or Loblaws, I would suggest to try them for your babies first portraits. Best wishes and Good Luck to all of you with your new babies.
Francine

Well for me- the photographer was excellent but the sales man that burst into my home two weeks after treated me worse than I have ever been treated as a customer. He told me he had my free gift - he put it to the side and did not let me see it - he then proceeded to tell me how wonderful the company is and what a suucessful business man he was. I then told him that I would like to see the pictures - as he started to pull them out - he asked how I would be paying! Havn't even seen the pictures yet! I then told him that my husband was out of town and I would be discussing the package options with him before purchasing....o.k...wait for this one... He then told me that i was not a qualified wife!!!!!! I said excuse me? He said that a qualified wife was one which was able to make a purchase with out consulting the husband! well welcome to year 2005! I do have an excellent career- but my son is 3 months old and I am still home with him - how dare he tell me that I am not a qualified wife!! Couldn't believe it - he took my free gift- put it in his brief case and stormed out! I want my free gift - not beacause it's free - but beacause they mis lead me and insulted me. It is unfortunate - I am a young mother - planning to have more children and all of my friends are in the same demographic - I will not hesitate to tell this truly sexist and rediculous story.

Jenn - Calgary Alberta

Well for me- the photographer was excellent but the sales man that burst into my home two weeks after treated me worse than I have ever been treated as a customer. He told me he had my free gift - he put it to the side and did not let me see it - he then proceeded to tell me how wonderful the company is and what a suucessful business man he was. I then told him that I would like to see the pictures - as he started to pull them out - he asked how I would be paying! Havn't even seen the pictures yet! I then told him that my husband was out of town and I would be discussing the package options with him before purchasing....o.k...wait for this one... He then told me that i was not a qualified wife!!!!!! I said excuse me? He said that a qualified wife was one which was able to make a purchase with out consulting the husband! well welcome to year 2005! I do have an excellent career- but my son is 3 months old and I am still home with him - how dare he tell me that I am not a qualified wife!! Couldn't believe it - he took my free gift- put it in his brief case and stormed out! I want my free gift - not beacause it's free - but beacause they mis lead me and insulted me. It is unfortunate - I am a young mother - planning to have more children and all of my friends are in the same demographic - I will not hesitate to tell this truly sexist and rediculous story.

Jenn - Calgary Alberta

Jen,
I wouldn't let this horrible man get away with that. Can you imagine how he treats his own wife? If I were you, I would call the company and file a complaint against him. I can't understand why people have to be so rude and thoughtless. Get yourself a good digital camera that has a 10 optical zoom with no less then a 4 mega pixel. You can get some lovely photos of your baby yourself. Lovely close ups of face, ears,toes and turn them into black and white and frame them. you would be amazed how many people will ask who the photographer was. Crop tight and leave no space around.

The money you might have spent on photography, buy a good camera and have fun.
Cheers.

I JUST WANTED TO TELL EVERYONE ABOUT A LITTLE PLACE CALLED SEARS. I WORK THERE AND I WOULD NEVER DO THE THINGS THAT I HEAR CANADIAN DOES. KEEP IN MIND IT ALL DEPENDS ON THE PHOTOGRAPHER. SO IF YOU FIND A GOOD PHOTOGRAPHER THEN REQUEST THEM EVERY TIME YOU BOOK AN APPOINTMENT. GOOD LUCK.

We recently got some photos done by CBP. We bought a package ~$250 because we were told that a CD with the raw images was included. The sales guys said that we could take this CD and print whatever image we wanted at a local Costco or Loblaws for cheaper. The CD actually contained downsized images (~100kb) and Costco and Loblaws will never print images from a professional photographer (which we didn't know at the time of purchase). I made several complaints to Customer service only to be faced with non-returning of calls and delay tactics. I'm surprised that a company that has been around for so long would continuously get away with this type of service.

PJ

Hi, I had pictures taken today by Canadian baby and they went great. The photographer was excellent. Very professional and gentle with my baby.

Hi PJ,

The company had a excellent reputation for many years. Your parents would of been appouched when you were born. Most families welcomed the photographer and salesman into the home and was very pleased with the photos. I don't know what has happend, is it greed? We now live in a very selfish, rushed world. I would go to the head office (Markham) if I were you and speak to someone in charge.

Katie, please let us know how you make out with your salesman after you recieve your photos. I hope you get someone who is pleasant and explains everything to detail.If you haven't heard from them in 3 weeks, call them.

Cheers
Agfa

The company has had an excellent reputation as there's clearly been very little in the way of outlets available for people to complain to. Now we have the Internet. And lo and behold a million complaints on this site alone. Greed? Greed on the part of the company, yes. Overcharging hundreds of dollars for two-bit portraits , employing bully boy tactics by the photographers and the sales people, and playing on the sympathies of new mothers.

i had canadian baby do my babys pics. i love them and yes they are beautiful lovely but too expensive
howoever my best friend took them too for her baby just 2 days ago from canadianbaby photographers and they dont look profesional at all i am sure she could have done them better herself
and yes as you all say the sales people are too pushy

i had canadian baby do my babys pics. i love them and yes they are beautiful lovely but too expensive
howoever my best friend took them too for her baby just 2 days ago from canadianbaby photographers and they dont look profesional at all i am sure she could have done them better herself
and yes as you all say the sales people are too pushy

I live in Edmonton, and I was actually looking for a different baby photography place, and came across this site. I can't believe how many negative things are being said about this company. My first son was born 2 years ago, and yes, they kept calling our home to set up an appointment to photograph our baby. I knew that they were quite expensive, but they told me that we would receive a free gift. So, I set up an appointment and the photographer came and took photos. He was not very enthusiastic, and basically just took pictures of my son very quickly and didn't take the time to make him smile, or have any kind of expression. My son was 3 1/2 mos old then. And when we finally got the proofs for the session, he had the same blank look on his face in 10 different poses. My husband didn't like them, and so we said no. He gave us our free gift of one photo and left. The salesman was not very pushy, but seemed very annoyed and left very abruptly when we told him no. I shake my head at the attitude of him, and am surprised, and even shocked that everywhere else in the province, people are getting the same type of service. I wonder how CBP hires their personnel, because it seems that a lot of people are unhappy with the way they run things. I'm sure it wasn't all that bad in the beginning, because almost 10 years ago, my nephew had his photos taken by them, and the people were wonderful. I guess it just went down hill. I did get photos done of my son, by a small company called Alberta Baby Photography, and Don, the photographer who owns it is ABSOLUTLEY wonderful. He takes the time to really get your baby's smile, and if he's a bit cranky, like my first son was, he gave him to me and asked that maybe I could nurse him, or give him a little bit of a nap to settle him. He waited half an hour for us, and when my son woke up, he was so happy and he ended up taking awesome pictures of him smiling. His prices are pretty reasonable, and I called him up again to take pictures of our second son. We get the proofs in one week.

If you live in the Edmonton area, and are new parents, I strongly suggest you go with Alberta Baby Photography. He's in St. Albert, and he comes to your home to take pictures of your precious miracle. I'm so happy my best friend recommended him to us.

Don't do Canadian baby!! Just read what everyone else has said.

Well we are about to embark on this journey of having Canadian Baby Photographers take our 4 month old daughters first professional photographs.

After reading all the horror stories on this page, and the obviously fake positive stories (like someone above said, if your baby's pictures were taken 4 years ago, what the heck are you doing here for in the first place??? This seems to be a place for researching having them done, not to come back to years later and give praise) but anyways, my experience so far hasn't been very positive.

Although my parets did have me and my 3 siblings pictures done when we were babies, and the pictures were very cute, i'm sure they were extremely overcharged for thier 7 shots. (luckily they were smart enough not to opt for a package).

Since my daughter has been 2 months old we have been gettin calls almost once a week to schedule a shoot. Well finally my wife agreed, so today we are to have them done at around 4:00 ET. This morning at 9:00 am they called and said they had a cancellation and could bump it up to 12:50 pm, I said that my wife was out running some errands with the baby, and she would not be home until after 1:00. They then told me they would call her back (do they even listen??? she WON'T be home).

So here's my plan, I have a Sony DSC-P43 camera, it's not the greatest digital camera, but it has 4.1 Megapixels, but only a 3 times digital zoom, no optical zoom. I have charged the batteries, and cleared the 256 MB memory stick and I plan to have my camera ready to go when they get here. How long do ya think it'll take before the photographer tells me off, or just packs up and leaves? I mean, it is my home, my child, and if I wanna take a picture at the exact time the canadian baby photographer does, I should have that right, shouldn't I?

So that's the plan.. I'm gonna stand right beside the photographer and whenever he goes to snap a pic *FLASH* I'm gonna take one myself. I bet I get my one free picture (taken by myself of course) before he packs up his stuff and heads out.

Also, if he hurts my daughter in anyway he'll be leaving with a broken face, because nobody is going to hurt my daughter.

I'll keep ya's informed on how the shoot went and if your interested i'll put "my" pictures up for everyone to see.

Cory T

well i guess they really don't value thier business... they called to tell us they could not make the scheduled time, so after us putting things we had to do today aside. we find out that they called when we were out to inform us that they couldn't make it at the scheduled time... they could make it an hour and a half before they were supposed to come... so to our dismay we missed them... they said they would call to reschedule... arrrgghhh... if it wasn't for the fact that i truly am curious if i can get away with taking my own pictures while the photographer is here, then i'd just tell them to go away and leave us alone...

cory t

Cory, that's too bad that you missed the glorifying experience of having them in your home. But isn't it just like them to schedule, and then reschedule and I'm sure they'll reschedule again. I'm sure they're not too heart broken though that you made time for them, but didn't have the decency to make time for you and what you had to do. Keep us informed though of what and when it happens.

Just wondering if anyone has tried to access the CBP website. I tried today as I just had my baby photographed and I wanted to find out more about them, but none of the links offered on the home page work. After finding THIS site, it makes me wonder if it is all just a farse. A website offering to give more information into packages etc. but then "conveniently" the links do not work so you have to allow a salesperson into your home to find out more. The photographer I had today was okay, although he sounded like he had a lot of lines and did not even bother to remember my daughter's name ,just kept calling her, "your daughter". Even the kids taking her picture at Sears called her by name! Gave me the impression of being very fake and rehearsed. I have a friend who does not like CBP due to price, pushiness, etc. and actually had a well known local photograher, who jetsets all around the world to take people's photos, take some of her and her son. Even with the sitting fee in his VERY beautiful studio and about 7 pages of proof sheets and a final purchase of a huge photo framed on the wall and several smaller ones for family, she still ended up paying less than she would have with CBP. I was curious to see if her experience was just a one off but after reading this site I think it is more the norm than the exception. I wonder what my salesperson experience will be? After reading this site, I think I already know!!!

I could not sleep last night thinking that I spent $347 on 3-8x10, 2-5x7, 2 wallet size and the 11 proofs which recently BCF upgraded to 5x7 size and I assume they are not the same quality as the actual photos. It seemed like a small fortune that could feed a 3rd world child for a year. Is it worth it?
The experience with the photographer Brian from Calgary was great. My daughter 4 months old when the photos were taken a month ago was content and she was even laughing for him.
I anticipated the cost would be a little higher than Sears which I spent $60 for 8-8x10, 1-10x14 and 2-5x7 when she was 2 months. The BCP salesperson suggested the cost is higher due to the $10,000 digital camera which I noticed it was a Canon D10 which Brian mentioned he bought it a year before the Canon D30 came out thus it probably would cost about $2300. So am I paying for overhead costs?
As for the quality of the photos it said on the order forms that it is "Silver Halide". Well, silver halide is used for traditional film photography. I have not seen anything relating digital photography and silver halide. And the salesman indicated that if the picture is cut to reveal a cross-section it would show the depth of the impregnation of the ink onto the paper which would make it last a lifetime.
If there was a website by CBP describing the higher quality and comparisons with other methods, the price list, up-to-date information on the labs being contracted and a place to address customer complaints, it would be great.
To compare with Sears prices for each 8 1/2x11 page Sears cost $6/page CBP 34.70/page. I am not even comparing it to Walmart which for one time in baby's life for $5.95 it includes 1-8x10, 2-5x7 and several wallet size.
Is the cost for the "in home" service worth 5 times the cost of going to a photographer such as "Sears"?
I want to be fair since nothing is for free but I do not want to feel as if I am taken advantage of. I’ll keep you posted on the refund part.

Canadian Baby pressured me into a free sitting and complimentary photo when my daughter was only a few weeks old. She couldn't even smile yet! I was assured that the photographer could work magic, so I relented.

The photographer was professional, if a little brusque. He arrived, shot the photos and left. A few weeks later I heard from Canadian Baby again, this time to schedule a viewing.

OK, call me stupid but I was shocked by the prices. Had the photos been unique and personal the cost could have been justified, but the lowest package available was $180.00. Of course, I could purchase 7 of the proofs at $15 a pop, but honestly, my daughter was so young that she just looked like anybody's newborn baby and an unsmiling one at that! I hate to say it, but I've seen these exact outfits and poses and startled baby faces on many other mantelpieces and endtables.

Now, since the photos were really quite unimpressive (I wouldn't have paid any more than a buck apiece for them) it's not the end of the world that they have never given me the free picture. The stinky (and I mean, revoltingly smoke-saturated) fellow who came by to show us the photos swept up the pictures of our daughter, crammed them into his briefcase like they were garbage and walked out without so much as a goodbye. Seriously. I am annoyed that they weaseled their way into my home (no obligation, free picture), were rude when my husband and I balked at the outrageous prices, and failed to provide what they had promised.

When the foul-smelling man left with the pictures practically crumpled up I had a feeling I was never seeing the free picture. So I waited a few weeks and called to ask them and was told "it will be sent in the mail." My daughter is now 4 months old. I'm going to call them tomorrow, not because I think I'm going to get the picture and not because the picture is worth getting. I am going to call them so that I have something concrete to tell other new mothers when I warn them against Canadian Baby Photographers.

If they do send a photo (don't hold your breath, friends) I will certainly post a partial retraction. Partial, because I still believe them to be unscrupulous, pushy, rude...and some of them, quite malodorous.

Well, am I ever nervous. I just finished reading this whole page and my Canadian Baby Photographer is due to arrive in 45 minutes. My one saving grace is that I'm in Whitby and someone posted that their Whitby photographer was great. I now realize that I probably won't be able to afford the photo packages. I can't be guilted into buying as I've got an appointment on Friday with event portraits at the Oshawa mall. I know exactly what that costs and I'm ready for it. Wish me luck everyone!!

If I do get someone who is rough with my baby and will not listen when I ask them to stop he/she will either leave with either a concussion or a big dogbite on their bum (if I can persuade my lazy dog to do anything that is, he he). Luckily, my son is 5 months old and my hormones have calmed to the point where I can't be guilted into it (at 3 weeks you could have sold me frozen dog poop on a stick if you said it was good for the baby).

Well, the photographer came when they said he would. I think that it really does depend on who this company contracts out to. This guy was very nice, very good with my son and I really liked the pics he took. I asked if I could be in one and he took 4 or 5 of me and my son that looked good when I previewed them on his camera.

I just hope I get a good sales person. I hate salespeople, well, pushy ones anyway. I do want some of those shots but I can't pay $300!!!

I have had a terrible experience so far. First of all, I am in sales myself and know a thing or two about how to set up a "buying customer". First things first, when they tell you that your husband has to be home, it's because they want both decision makers there, so you can't use that as an excuse to not buy. The free gift is meant to lure you into letting them come back because we all want something for nothing. Once they are in your home and in front of you they have an opportunity to sell to you. That is why you cannot preview the prints on the internet, which would be very easy for them to do. These warning flags came up right away with CBP.
Our guy booked an appointment to show us the pictures for 9:30 at night, and then didn't show up or even bother to call to say he wasn't coming. No follow up phone call to say sorry and re-schedule until a few days later. Then he books another appointment for this evening, and because I wasn't home from work yet, he wouldn't even show my wife the pictures at all, saying it would be a waste of his time. All this even though my wife said that I would be home in the next 15 minutes. I guess our business is not worth it for them, and so we will arrange to have a PROFESSIONAL photographer in to take pictures. It's unfortunate as the photographer was excellent and probably took some great shots, which we would have spent money on.
I would say stay far away from a company that has repeatedly offered poor service.
Best of luck to all you new parents!

I'm glad I read all of this before the photographer came by tomorrow. This morning I recieved a call from some lady from a 905 area code (I'm in BC, so I'm assuming this is Toronto) who could barely speak English, telling me that a representative would be in my area tomorrow between 1 and 2pm and would be stopping by. She said have some brightly colored clothes picked out and some bath towels. I was caught off guard so I said 'Ok...' and agreed to the appointment.

After reading all the negative comments I'm going to ensure that the photographer doesnt get in my door. I live in a gated community so he's gonna have to buzz in before he can get to my front door.

I dont know how they got the information about my babies. They knew that I had twins and they were about 3 months old. I remember them calling 3 days after my babies were born telling me that they wanted to come by for a sitting. I said 'what's the point, they're 3 days old and they dont do anything but sleep.' The only place I can think of them getting my name or number from is either the hospital (which I would hope that the hospital didnt give them my information... doctor patient confidentiality and all that) or from the hospital photographs we had taken and purchased.

At any rate, thanks for all your comments and thank you Katie for posting this. Canadian Baby Photographers will not be coming to my door. I'd be better off going to Sears or something.

Well, the sales guy came (I posted 3 postings ago). The photos were so good, well, I didnt care for the Tarzan ones but the just Colin shots were so cute. It tore my heart out to tell him that there's no freaking way I could afford this. To top it off my hubby just got laid off so even if I was contemplating it there is just no way. I can't believe they don't even keep the pictures on file! What if I got the money and wanted them later? Anyway. I watched the guy take the shots so I'll just set up the same poses myself...not too shabby with my digital camera if I do say so.

CBP
Are scum they pressure there way into your home and pressure you to buy crap that any one with a $400 digital camera could do.
Do not use the they are scam artists

Hi, just wanted to say thanks for all the info guys! I had an appointment set up for tomorrow to have my 4 mos daughter's ffirst professional photos taken. But after reading all these stories, I called to cancel the apointment. No CB photographer will be coming into my house! I'll stick with Wal-Mart and Sears!

Walk down your local main street, search the web for a local photographer. Look at the pictures, talk to the person and decide if this person is going to have an empathy with your child. Good child photos take patience, consideration for the child and parent. I photograph lots of children and like to make it fun for every one, relaxed and happy, then the pictures show happy relaxed fun expressions. As a photographer and father I am staggered at the treatment you have received, and hope in future you find a professional to create your family memories. - Victor

I just need to say that CBP is a horrible company and they should be sued. They claim that there photographers are pros, what a load of crap. THEY HIRE ANY ONE THAT WILL WORK FOR THEM. I am not sure about you but i would not trust my child in the hands of "whom" pedifile, pervert, drug addict and so on, Are the photographers and sales staff bonded did they have police background checks done highly unlikely, actualy I know for a fact they have not. They claim to be a christian company, boy Gods going to be pissed at them.
Claiming that there pictures are "high Density Silver halide" and places like zehrs and walmart do surface printing,Oh I am sure a company that steals bank deposit envolpes for there sales staff spent $30,000.00 on a high density silver halide print lab. You can bet that they are using the same if not cheaper equipment that your local one hour photo shop is using. Take this into consideration when they call you to set up the photo shoot,and let me assure you a free gift (5x7) photo of your child is not enough to have them in your home. A bit of advice take your child to a dep[artment store spend 1/16th of the price get 3 times as many photos. Buy the way photos you recive from department stores are arcival and will last a 100+ years, then put the rest of the money you saved on the pictures into a savings bond something that your child will cherish more then some sappy ass montouge. The company preys apone new mothers vulnability, the prices they charge are criminal for the shaddy work they do,
DONT BE A SUCKER
DONT GET SUCKERED
CANADIAN BABY PHOTOGRAPHERS ARE CHEAP, THEIVES WHO WILL SCREW YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!BEWARE

I was both shocked and relieved after reading this page. Shocked that so many people have been ripped off and relieved that I was not the only one! I wish I read it before!
I heard from Canadian Baby Photographer through a friend who was quite happy with them, even though she paid a lot. I really liked her baby pictures so when I saw them at a Baby Fair, I signed up for "a free present".
They started calling me at my house even before my son was born and the persons I talked to on the phone were quite rude. They called several times but as I explained to them, I wanted my baby to be at least 3 months since he was very small at birth. They still called once a week, if not more to book an appointment as they "had a photographer in the neighborhood". I politely repeated the same thing week after week until one time, when they called me at 8:15 a.m. right after I had finally fallen asleep with my baby who didn't sleep all night. I was SO frustrated, I asked the woman to please not call me so early in the morning in a not so courteous way. Well, I didn't hear from them after that until I actually called them myself as I was leaving the country for a few months. The day the photographer came to my house, I did my best to keep my baby awake but he showed up late (without a phone call or any warning) and by the time he got here, my baby was asleep. I had to wake him up and he was very cranky but overall, the guy was pretty good so my son ended up smiling and the pictures turned out pretty good.
Things got bad when the salesperson showed up. Luckily, my husband was home and before he came, we agreed on not spending a fortune, no more than 200 bucks, which was already a lot.
The guy started with the super expensive packages to which we said no right away. Like everyone mentioned on this page, he never showed us a list of the different packages but kept going down as we said no. He stopped at 250 or 280 and started to say "as a favor to us" he would add this one and that one blablabla. My baby cried so my husband went to see him upstairs and gave me his credit card. I was left alone with him and he crossed the $280 so write $300 something. I asked him why and he said because of the ones I had just added, the very same ones he was adding "as a favor" 5 minutes before. As English is not my first language and I had a hard time understanding him, I just thought it was a misunderstanding and I did not dare to say anything. Plus, he was talking/asking me tons of personal questions at the same time to confuse me. In the end, with the taxes and shipping, it was $400. As soon as he left, we not only felt like total idiots, but also really bad for spending that much money. Yet, we figured we would have quite a lot of nice pictures for that much. Well not quite! We got our pictures yesterday and there weren't many at all + the ones "he gave us as a favor" -that we ended up paying anyway are missing. I tried to call them but of course, no one answered. I also realized that although he scribbled down all kinds of stuff, including the deal we agreed upon, he took the papers with him and only left us a nearly-blank receipt, so it's his words against ours.
My present was a cheesy 10 cents bragging book to put my pictures in. For that price they could at least give you something decent!!
We'll definitely won't do it again for our next baby!!

I want to let everyone in Calgary know about somewhere great to go for pictures. The convience of a photographer coming to your house is not there, but this place takes amazing pictures! It has been in a couple of different malls around the city and will be opening a store up in Southcenter mall shortly, and I can't wait! A couple of friends have gotten thier babies pictures taken and they are great! It's called POGO Pics I believe and I was told they should be in Southcenter Mall sometime in October. I have been waiting for them to open to get my son's first professional pictures taken, and it will be well worth the wait.

I just wanted to say that my experiance with Canadian Baby was great. We had them taken for our son 3 years ago, and i came upon this website looking for their number for our second baby. I agree that the prices are high, but these are the keepsakes and our Zehrs photos (which are also good) we will change out as the kids grow older.

I had a photographer come to my home, take 2 pictures, then she tried to sit her up... and proclaimed that she was getting too tired to sit up.. um. hello??? my daughter was about a month old!! she said she would come back in about 6 weeks or so, etc.. never heard back. what ever happened to first photo? thats what I did for my son, and they did them IN the hopsital.. at least in brantford they did... Now, what ever happened to the few pictures that she DID take? intersting question...

They really do try to guilt you into buying. With all of the digital pics I have of my son I couldn't be guilted. I just feel bad for those that were scammed. It's worse when they get you right after you have your baby and are very emotional.

Hello Everyone! I am very happy to find this site because I too had a horrible experience with the salesman from Canadian Baby Photographers.
The photographer who came to my home was not bad and some of the pictures he took were nice,albeit somewhat cliché. After the photographer left, I had the intention of buying a small package.
HOWEVER, the salesman who showed up at my home later to sell the pics was extremely RUDE and UNPROFESSIONAL! LIke everyone else says on this site, the prices are highway robbery. I could not afford $240-300 on a package at this time and I felt like an absolute heel when the man said "I'll have to destroy the pictures right away then!". I didn't appreciate his tone and he became even more aggressive upon leaving. I was very grateful to have my husband with me because I might have been scared or felt threatened had I been alone.
Thankfully, I did not allow myself to be pressured into buying those overpriced pictures. I will not support such unprofessional and inhuman tactics. Shame on such a company that takes advantage of parents' good intentions to agressively push their products at an unfair rate.
BUYER BEWARE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My sister used Canadian Baby Photographer for both her kids, one in 1983, and one in 1986. The pics are soooo adorable. I always said to myself when i had children i would get the same pics done..well Sarah arrived in 2003 and Canadian Baby called (they got my number from Welcome Wagon) i agreed (they offer one free picture) the quality is superb, far better than walmart. and walmarts pics can fade over time, these are guaranteed NOT to fade..and as you can see by my sister..they have been around for many years. My newest addition, Vanessa is 6 months old and i am booking my appointment for her photo shoot. I felt it was well worth the money for high quality pics...oh, I GOT TO CHOOSE HOW THE PHOTOGRAPHER POSED MY BABY and i got to pick my own clothing..probably becasue i was very co-operative and friendly, not standoffish

Canadian Baby harassed us weekly until we agreed to an appointment (after repeatedly being assured that there was no cost or obligation). The photograhpher was good, BUT, the salesman was a complete jerk. Once he quoted the modest price of $300 my wife said we couldn't afford that. His reply: "Haven't you ever had professional photos done, this is what they cost." He then started babelling about the photographer wasting her time, etc. Then (to be nice I suppose) my wife said maybe next month we'll have more money and reconsider. To this he replied "They'll be shredded by the end of the week." Not just discarded or deleted, but SHREDDED. Ouch! Unfortunately I was not home because he wouldn't have gotten away with his aggressive tone had I been. What an amateur operation. Pyramid sales from the photog down to the salesman. I'm disgusted and ashamed that that "salesman" set foot in my home and treated my wife like a dumb piece of dirt. Live and learn I suppose. What a joke! Stay as far away from these creeps as you possibly can.

I think everyone should spread the word to friends having babies for the first time to definately AVOID having CBP in their home in the first place! Although our experience was not that bad (everyone was pretty friendly), DH and I did feel sufficiently ripped off after spending over $300 for our pics of DS. They really do prey on emotions of new parents! A friend of mine had more strength and said NO to the salesman for all pics...he then became extremely rude and gruff, packed up his things and immediately left. I agree...go to Loblaws or Sears. With the $$ you save you can buy a decent digital camera too!

Hi, I found your site thru looking for portrait studios. One comment for the guy that said we had bad kids and were cheap, kiss my butt. First:kids cry, doesn't make them bad, second: my money is limited so sorry $300+ is better spent on a cheaper package elsewhere and the rest on baby supplies. The photographer was a girl with her photography ticket for maybe a year, they call that experience? She was pleasant. The sales guy was pushy and tried to make us feel guilty for allowing our photos to be destroyed when we refused to buy. I had a digital camera (before I dropped it)and I took some great Christmas photos last year. One hint taking baby pics is to be 3ft away from the baby as the flash can hurt their eyes (a pro photographer told me that). Back to subject. Everybody I know uses Walmart or Sears and is satisfied with their packages. All in all I don't recommend Canadian to anyone. Have a good day, enjoy your kids!

Hi, I found your site thru looking for portrait studios. One comment for the guy that said we had bad kids and were cheap, kiss my butt. First:kids cry, doesn't make them bad, second: my money is limited so sorry $300+ is better spent on a cheaper package elsewhere and the rest on baby supplies. The photographer was a girl with her photography ticket for maybe a year, they call that experience? She was pleasant. The sales guy was pushy and tried to make us feel guilty for allowing our photos to be destroyed when we refused to buy. I had a digital camera (before I dropped it)and I took some great Christmas photos last year. One hint taking baby pics is to be 3ft away from the baby as the flash can hurt their eyes (a pro photographer told me that). Back to subject. Everybody I know uses Walmart or Sears and is satisfied with their packages. All in all I don't recommend Canadian to anyone. Have a good day, enjoy your kids!

In an earlier post, I mentioned that Canadian Baby had never given me the free gift as they had promised. I said I would post a partial retraction if they sent it...

Well, one unreturned phone message later, I got the woman who booked our initial appointment on the line. She admitted that the stinky salesman was supposed to give us a picture at the time, and she hoped that she would be able to find them online as the modus operandi is to destroy them. She said that she would provide two photos to compensate for the inconvenience.

About 2 weeks later (this is back in September) the photos arrived.

I have to say that at least this person had enough commonsense and class to try to smooth over a rough situation (I told her about the crankiness of the fella I understand to be named Bill).

However, everyone: Unless you have a whole load of money and don't mind tossing a few hundred out for a relatively small photo package, don't bother with the appointment at all.

All I have to say now is, check this out. Photolab.ca and look under photo studio. Prices are fair and you will be happy with your portraits.

All I have to say now is, check this out. Photolab.ca and look under photo studio. Prices are fair and you will be happy with your portraits.

All I have to say now is, check this out. Photolab.ca and look under photo studio. Prices are fair and you will be happy with your portraits.

I was reading these postings looking for a company to take our new babies picture and guess who just called to inform us that "someone" had bought us a free 5x7. They could not tell us who this someone was. They must have alot of time to drive all the way down here, live close to windsor, and take a free picture. I really wonder where these people get our phone numbers from?

It would seem that there are still greedy, unprofessional people out there attempting to capitalize from unsuspecting new parents. If the deal sounds fishy, the rewards are unbelievable and the process is easy then turn it down. There are professional children photographers out there and we wish all new parents well.

You wanted to know where they get your phone numbers and names from? It comes from the welcome wagon. Also they get it from friends who have had pictures done as well.
They try to repesent welcome baby and have done for many years.

I had my son's pictures taken by canadian baby, yesterday a man came, his name was JOE and he was a total jerk. He showed up late and my partner had to leave before the saleman got here. i tried to explain to JOE that i would call him in an hour and tell him the package i would purchase. HE wouldn't listen he said the minute he walks out the door the deal is off the table. I tried to explain that i had to run it by my husband as i am on maternity leave and don't bring in a whole lot of mioney at this time but we would definatley purchase. Joe tried everything to get me to buy right then, told me i could spend $459 ona package and give it to my husband for a christmas present. YEAH RIGHT... I said i will write down the poses i want and call you within and hour. then he offered all of the prints to me for $199 i was going to do it... they were 5x7 portraits... not that great looking but i figured i should by them. As i was just about to say yes... He said " well i can see that you can't even afford portraits through us, so i will be leaving now." I was embarrassed and still am... he left and being postpartum, cried my eyes out. I am planning on calling them in the morning and letting them know just what jerks i think they are.. i will also be calling the hospital and welcome wagon and whoever else i have to call.
I will tell everyone i know never to use this company.

JESSY,
I AGREE, HE'S A JERK AND DOESN'T DESERVE YOUR BUSINESS OR ANYONES ELSES. YOU SHOULD CALL CANADIAN BABY TO LET THEM KNOW WHAT IS BEING SAID ABOUT THEM ON THE NET.
JESSY, WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED>?

stratford, ontario

this sounds very dramatic, but my experience has scarred me. I think its going to take me some time to get over the way Joe spoke to me. It was unexceptable and hurt my feelings more than i can say. I am plannin gon calling first thing in the morning but i don't believe that anything will come of my complaint. Joe may get scolded, if that.

Jessy,

I know this is a busy time to get into a studio. Once Christmas is gone, call Zehrs portrait studio in cambridge and ask for Francine.

Jessy,

I know this is a busy time to get into a studio. Once Christmas is gone, call Zehrs portrait studio in cambridge and ask for Francine.

Well, I never had any pics done by Canadioan Baby but my friend did. I was with them when the salesperson came. He refused to show them packages less than $1800, he then insulted them by saying they didn't like their baby very much, and then kept saying how he must not be a good salesperson nd no one likes him and trying to make them feel bad. He then eventually sold them pictures and her brother bought a Montage. Well, when the salesperson left they looked at their receipt and he put down an 8x10, when he ordered and 16x20!!! So they tried calling the company, but always got hung up on whenever they tried to explain what happened. They finally got the right pictures after 2 months, but I don't think its worth it, neither do they

Since other people are promoting Sears etc, I am going to promote a company called "Event Portrait".
I am a dealer for this company and we do newborns right up to young teens. I have done babies as young as 4 days old and our portraits are adorable. We use digitally enhanced backgrounds so your baby looks like it is curled up asleep on a swing etc. I have talked to many new parents that saw my samples and wished they had come to me instead of Cnd Baby, as they spent a fortune with them and weren't satisfied. Our prices are reasonable and the quality is great. I used Cnd Baby in 1985 and 1987, and now in 2005 they still use the same corny propped up looking poses!
http://www.eventportrait.com

A few weeks ago a really nice photographer named Debbie came to our house. Both my son and I really liked her. Last night a very, very rude salesman came into our home and I refused to buy anything from him. He said he was giving me a special price and would let me buy the 12 5 x 7's for $199.00, these all had the same background and a lot of the pictures were very similar. I refused. I also indicated that I thought the prices for the packages were too high and I did not appreciate not being given anytime to think it over or compare prices. I explained to him that I had a picture printed on canvas at 34 x 40 and it was only about 85.00 and he basically called me a liar. My husband wouldn't even sit at the table with him. After a few more comments from him and a lot of pressure to buy I told him he was rude. He apologized and gave me the phone number for his manager to call and complain which I have not bothered to do. He then allowed me to pick the picture of my choice for my free 5 x 7 as an apology. One of these pictures was smudged and all were printed on what appeared to be cheaper photo paper, I was not impressed at all.
After he left my husband and I went grocery shopping at Zehrs in Cambridge and I dropped into the studio there (I have heard very good things about this studio from co-workers). The lady was very nice and the deals were incredible. It was this lady that told me about this blog. We could not get in before Christmas as they are fully booked, but I would much rather give them my business than Canadian Baby. The samples on their wall are much nicer than the samples Canadian Baby showed me. I had some Halloween pictures taken of my son there and they were MUCH nicer than the ones from Canadian Baby, and there were no smudges on the prints.

A few weeks ago a really nice photographer named Debbie came to our house. Both my son and I really liked her. Last night a very, very rude salesman came into our home and I refused to buy anything from him. He said he was giving me a special price and would let me buy the 12 5 x 7's for $199.00, these all had the same background and a lot of the pictures were very similar. I refused. I also indicated that I thought the prices for the packages were too high and I did not appreciate not being given anytime to think it over or compare prices. I explained to him that I had a picture printed on canvas at 34 x 40 and it was only about 85.00 and he basically called me a liar. My husband wouldn't even sit at the table with him. After a few more comments from him and a lot of pressure to buy I told him he was rude. He apologized and gave me the phone number for his manager to call and complain which I have not bothered to do. He then allowed me to pick the picture of my choice for my free 5 x 7 as an apology. One of these pictures was smudged and all were printed on what appeared to be cheaper photo paper, I was not impressed at all.
After he left my husband and I went grocery shopping at Zehrs in Cambridge and I dropped into the studio there (I have heard very good things about this studio from co-workers). The lady was very nice and the deals were incredible. It was this lady that told me about this blog. We could not get in before Christmas as they are fully booked, but I would much rather give them my business than Canadian Baby. The samples on their wall are much nicer than the samples Canadian Baby showed me. I had some Halloween pictures taken of my son there and they were MUCH nicer than the ones from Canadian Baby, and there were no smudges on the prints.

Oh my....I cannot believe this!!! I posted something on a stay at home moms webpage that I am a member on about this horrible company. The salesman actually made me cry, he was such a jerk. He pulled out the sheet with the most expensive packages first and then when my bf said our budget was $300 he pulled out the "cheap people packages" and then I explained it was end of the month, rent was due and I asked his secretary about if they have payment plans and she said yes. Well he pushed me to call my credit card company to increase my credit limit and was so unbelievably pushy, I told him just to hold the pictures at the office for a week and he said he would be promptly sending them back to the head office in Ontario and that I would have to pay postage for it and blah blah blah...YOU DON'T HAVE ANY MONEY?!?!?!? No you ass, no money sorry...anyways I could write A LOT more about this idiot, but I did write the company 3 times, and on the 3rd e-mail I told them I would be going to the BBB if I did not hear from them by the end of the week, 20 minutes later I get a reply "we are reviewing your history and will call you shortly". What history?!!??! Anyways, DO NOT support this company, they are awful.....

To the lady who wasn't able to get into Zehrs studio. I do hope you will come to vistit me once the big rush is gone. We are having 2 more walk in's if you're interested. I would be more than happy to serve you and your family with no pressure and with low prices and quality photos to share with everyone.

I noticed we have several parents that are unhappy with the salesmen from Canadian baby. It is too bad that they have ruined the whole idea of photographers going to the home. It's such a good idea because you are in the comfort of your own home and you don't have to bundle up baby to rush out in traffic. The idea is wonderful if only the salesmen weren't so pushy on something that should sell on it's own. (with lower prices of course) it has given a bad name to some wonderful photographers who are well trained. Most of them have no idea what goes on after they leave your home. I know this, I was one of them.

Best wishes
Agfa

I think the person who wrote the original blog must be the photographer at walmart. I think your a little jealous that you still use as a Polaroid camera you take the standard crappy ass poses with the cardboard cutout backdrops. I've had nothing but great experiences with all five of my children, soon to be six. I'll definetly use Canadain Baby Photographers again.

Well I just recieved a email asking me to work for a company called baby portraits. I will keep everyone informed in what it's all about.

The people commenting on this site are obviously, some of which......BABY PHOTOGAPHERS! I dont believe ANYONE could have ever had a positive experience with these people.Anyone can take a beautiful picture of your "knew bundle of joy" they are all good. But these people are pushy and EXPENSIVE. They should do some justice and send the copies they would otherwise throw out, after all it didnt cost SHIT!!! Dont have em come in the first place. GO TO SEARS!! Just as good! And a hell of a lot more economical.

My wife and I have had three children. The oldest one died at seven months of age of a rare blood disease. Canadian Baby Photographers have photographed all of my kids. I look back with joy at the work the photographer from Windsor did with my kids. I enjoyed watching this man work with my babies, as much as I appreciated the end result. The only photos I have of my oldest son Monty was done by this company and they are a cherished memory.

The montage of Monty is so beautiful, it along with my other children's is still on the wall today, thirteen years later.

God has blessed my wife and I with another child, due the middle of January. I came across this site looking for the phone number. I cannot understand why they don't print the phone number on the back of the cards that hold the photos. Anyways the tradition will be carried on in my family.

I wouldn't let Sears take my baby's photos.. we go there for the best appliances and power tools .......but baby pictures. Heck anybody can take a picture of a baby in a bucket seat with a blanket stretched over it!!!

I've recently have had a unpleasant time with the canadian baby photographers. i can agree to alot of people on this site, who have also had an unpleasant experience. i'm keeping it short and all i have to say is that there is so much more photography places out there to choose from. you just have to look around.

I wanted to give an update regarding my experience with Canadian Baby Photographers. We had a photographer named Lynn who took our baby's photos and then had a salesmen, Ivan who came over to show the photos.

I have to admit, the photos are very expensive, BUT, we have had our photos taken at the Bay and the Great Canadian Store in Oakville and these are much, much better.

The Baby and Loblaws are great for the price but their poses and photography aren't nearly as nice. I definitely don't recommend the Great Canadian Store in Oakville, the photographers are students (at least the guy we had was this skinny cocky useless kid). When I mentioned it to the Manager (French looking woman), she looked at me like I was a pain and asked what more I wanted? How rude!!

I have read so much about pressure sales tactics from the Canadian Baby, this guy Ivan was the best Salesmen I have ever dealt with. He did not pressure us one ounce and was extremely courteous. We had pretty much decided not to buy the photos and eventhough we had taken up over an hour of his time, he had no problem with that, he was ready to give us our free photo and leave. We eventually decided to buy the proofs but not due to pressure from Ivan. If you do deal with this company make sure you ask for him to show up.

We had our baby's photo taken by Canadian Baby as well recently. I agree that their prices are very costly, but I do like the photographer. He's very professional in handling our 7-week baby boy, and the photos are great. The salesperson is a stereotype salesperson as we can say. However, we couldn't help ourselves to spend some hundreds dollars on the photos because they are so cute. It would be better if their prices are not as high. Just wondering, have anyone been offered a lower price if you decline their first offer of packages? (ie. just order their proofs and photo CD?)

We had our baby boy photographed by Canadian Baby.
I hate the prices, the photographer was very rude (but did do an amazing job with my son)and the salesman was your stereotypical sales guy. In the end I was the sucker, spent over $600 and honestly I would do it again. My son is now nearly 2 and I still look at those photos everyday. I have been to other places since and the prices are better but the quality doesn't compare. And you can get the montage at Sears, they just call it a collage and the quality isn't very good at all.

I had pictures taken of my son 3 years ago with this company. The photographer was o.k. but I had the same negative experience with the sales person. My downfall was that my mom was visiting on the same day he was presenting the packages and I spend close to $ 700. I was very firm that I wanted the negatives of the photos back and he told me that I can get them back after 3 years. Being a very organized individual I had diarize to call the company to get my negatives back.

After leaving several photo calls to the customr service department and no one calling me back I finally got a live person 3 weeks after I starting calling. I told the girl why I was calling. She told me that she would not be able to find my negatives because they had moved offices and a whole bunch of negatives had been lost. She didn't even try to look ....how did she know right away that my negatives are gone ?

The customer service sucks and with my second baby I am looking for a professional to take pictures for me, anyone have any suggestions ?

I just wanted to say that I had great pictures done by Canadian baby before I became a photographer. Unfortunately I did not agree with their business tactics. They didn't tell you the prices before hand (sneaky) or how many shots would be taken. Of course when I saw them, I wanted them but couldn't afford them. I had to call my grandma with her credit card to bail me out since I loved them so much. The real catch was I found someone afterwards who had the same person photograph their baby and received the same amount of pictures for less! I am upfront with my business and tell people exactly what they'll get, and if they don't want them, that's ok I'll keep them for advertising!

I agree with most of you. The achual photography session went really well, the photographer was really nice but the equpitment and props they used was very old, stained and cheap looking, i wouldnt even get my DOG's picture taken with that stuff! Anyways when the guy came to our house to show us the pictures i was SHOCKED at the rediculous prices... I mean GET REAL the pictures weren't even THAT GOOD! I had a individual, professional photographer take pictures and they were CHEAPER, MORE PERSONAL MORE PROFESSIONAL AND THEY WERE BEAUUUUUTIFUL! :)

I agree with most of you. The achual photography session went really well, the photographer was really nice but the equpitment and props they used was very old, stained and cheap looking, i wouldnt even get my DOG's picture taken with that stuff! Anyways when the guy came to our house to show us the pictures i was SHOCKED at the rediculous prices... I mean GET REAL the pictures weren't even THAT GOOD! I had a individual, professional photographer take pictures and they were CHEAPER, MORE PERSONAL MORE PROFESSIONAL AND THEY WERE BEAUUUUUTIFUL! :)

I agree with most of you. The achual photography session went really well, the photographer was really nice but the equpitment and props they used was very old, stained and cheap looking, i wouldnt even get my DOG's picture taken with that stuff! Anyways when the guy came to our house to show us the pictures i was SHOCKED at the rediculous prices... I mean GET REAL the pictures weren't even THAT GOOD! I had a individual, professional photographer take pictures and they were CHEAPER, MORE PERSONAL MORE PROFESSIONAL AND THEY WERE BEAUUUUUTIFUL! :)

I was reading these posts the day AFTER I purchased the cheapest package. Much like another poster, I did not sleep well knowing how much money these pictures were going to cost me. Although I had a good experience with the photographer and the salesman was a typical salesman, I did feel a little pressured to purchase the pictures. I am shocked that the smallest package is still over $300!!

Anyway, I decided to cancel my order. It was easier than I thought! I called the 1-800-465-9383 number and they told me exactly what to do to cancel my order. I just sent an e-mail to customerservice@canadianbaby.com and cancelled my order. I do have to send back the originals at my cost but that's nothing compared to the cost of the package.

I feel much better!

Really the only complaint I have is the cost of the packages.

your company sucks

your company sucks

Can anyone explain why I would pay over $300 for

2 8X10s
1 5X7
8 2X3s
12 5X7s

Imges are good, photographer was excellent. I guess the sales people must be be making all the money!

They try to explain that they use "SILVER HALIDE" printing and that if you were to cut the image in half you would see that the image was embeded in the paper. Well here's a news flash. Anyone selling portraits as a business uses "SILVER HALIDE" printing. Infact I have seen some inkjet and LED prints that look just as good. Maybe better. Infact the sales guy was'nt even sure whether the photographers shot RAW images or compressed JPEG images, which make for lesser quality pictures. He told me the cameras were 12 megapixels but when I googled the model number our photographers was using I discovered they're using 6 megapixel cameras.

Educate yourself before you buy. Ask friends. Make phone calls to other photography companies. Heck call there office and ask to speak to someone about there image processing. Before you have a salesperson in your home do some research about printing methods. You'll be surprised what the mark up is. These guys are exploiting uninformed consumers.

Remember ask questions. Don't accept anything they insist on.

If you are loooking for great edmonton childrens photographer, I would hAVEto say Iasha is the best, she come highly recommended and did AN excellent job on your newborn portrait, she is a breath of fresh air for sure
Her website is

www.photosbyiasha.com

I had a good experience with the photographer and the person who called was upfront about what they were selling but holy crap could they charge any more for these pictures??

I asked both the person who called and the photographer if I could get a price list ahead of time since there weren't any prices on thier website and I was told that they don't put them on because they do business in many countries and the prices are different. Then I was told that thier prices were comparable with Sears...Bull! The smallest package is $229.00 for 2 5X7's and 1 8X10 and when you try to buy pictures by themselves which is also rediculous they insist you buy a package so you can keep the proofs... I didn't even like most of the pictures the guy wouldn't wait until I got her to smile before he snapped the picture so why would I want to pay so much to keep them? I did however want the CD so that I can print off pictures on my photo printer - It's way cheaper to buy good quality paper and the pics turn out great. I wish we weren't the first of all our friends to have a baby so we could have been warned but at least now they won't get ripped off. I should have done a little research before hand, I won't be that naive again!

I'm sure all the good things posted were from people in the company, they have started thier own blog on thier website now, like they're going to keep anything negative on it - give me a break.

Sorry to hear you had such a negative experience with Canadian Baby. I on the other hand had a very nice lady who came to my house did everything well without making me or my baby feel uncomfortable. When it came time to choose the portraits I was not pressured into getting any set package and was satisfied with the end result. Most of my friends and cousins have also had good experiences. I think the fact that you were given false pretenses from the beginning without being fully explained to what was going to happen that made the whole experience a nightmare. We all have to remember nothing is free so if someone tells you that they are coming to give you a free gift, I would question WHY???

Well, I became a photographer after a TERRIBLE Sears session. I had been a serious hobbyist for a decade, and realized I could do a better job. Now, I know Sears can do some lovely work (if you like pre-packaged, studio style that may or may not work for YOUR child -- mine hated it). But I took great joy in telling Canadian Baby Photographers that I'm not interested, and when pushed, I told them that I was a baby photographer myself. They backed off. In our area I had heard horror stories. I saw decent work, but the cost was exhorbitant for what you got and the people are NOT photographers. They have equipment that is all set up. All they have to do is push a button.

I have baby portraits of me from Canadian Baby Photographers. As the one person said, they are a bit of an institution.

As a photographer, and lover of documenting my own family and the moments of other families, I would say whatever you do... DO get photos done. From Sears, CBP, or an actual professional. In hindsight the cost will feel well worth it. Just be sure you do capture your precious ones professional at least a couple times in their babyhood and childhood, no matter who you choose.

I had a bad experience, not with the photographer but with the salesman. The photos were not cute and the prices were insane, then when he whips out his prices... we almost died. He then proceeds to tell my mom that "this is not walmart maam" I guess his attempt to justify the prices. HE was rude and he didnt even want to give me my free photo. I have had much better photos taken AT WALMART! Then they call me again a few months ago and the woman says hello I just wanted to say congratulations on your new baby...i said ya he's almost 2 now...lol OH my dear well I am sorry, I don't know how we got your number. I don't know either, but I filed a complaint with the BBB after this rude creep came into our house and made us feel like that. next time I will tell them to keep their free photo and bar of ivory soap. I am going to walmart!

I had my daughter's photos done by Canadian Baby 17 years ago. They were amazing and they are still the best pictures I have ever had done. I have recently re-married and have son. I drove to the city I had my daughters photos done in to have the same photographer do the pictures (London Ontario) He is professional and an phenomenal photographer. He has been working for CB for over 20 years. I used to be a photo developer for a professional photographer before my daughter was born so I know good quality. CB is the best! I would never go to a substandard photography company. CB is huge and has offices all over Canada...you are bound to meet different personalities all the time. You will not be happy with every person in any company all the time. My husband is in sales for a direct marketing company like CB and he has horror stories about some of the clients he deals with...To tell you the truth, the people who bitch and complain the most are the cheap penny pinchers who care more about saving some money than investing in something that will be displayed with affection for decades!

Might I suggest that rather than complaining into cyber space about this company, report them to the Better Business Bureau. I did not have a positive experience with Canadian Baby Photographers as well (on many levels), but I plan to go to the BBB where something can be done. I, too, need to vent sometimes, but in this case, I am extremely frustrated with them and they need to know about it. Also, the BBB posts complaints filed against each company so you can log on to their site at www.bbb.org Also, the photographers are welcoming any comments (positive or negative) onto their own website. I am curious to see if they will post the negative experiences people have or if they will use it to pat themselves on the back.

And, to the person who said that the parents not purchasing the photographs are "cheap"... not everyone has a bottomless bank account and some would prefer to EAT and pay a mortgage that month, rather than spending $200 minimum on 7 pictures with babies in fake poses. My husband and I make a very comfortable income, and $200 is a lot of money to pay for a few pictures. Many other photographers offer the same service for a fraction of the price. Stop flapping your gums when you have no idea what people do to make ends meet in a month.

Parents who choose not to pay $300 for a photo package aren't cheap... they may have other priorities for that money. There's nothing wrong with that.

The thing is, you really have to know what the market typically charges for this kind of service, and having looked into it, it's usually much more than what you're being charged by Canadian Baby. My father in law just paid for a photographer to take family photos, and not only did he pay $125 just for an hour's sitting fee -- quite reasonable compared to the photographers in the area -- he also paid more than what Canadian Baby are charging for the photos he got. But they were great photos. When we were checking out wedding photographers, they'd typically charge $500-$1200 and up for the day, plus more for extra photos (around $25-$50 for an 8x10).

So if baby photos aren't in your budget, that's okay; go to Wal-Mart or Sears or try it yourself with your digital, and you might get some fabulous shots. Just don't go calling 'thievery' when a business is simply charging what others like them charge. It is a business, after all.

A photographer visited us today from Canadian Baby and I'd almost cancelled due to the negative feedback on this site. :) He was fantastic though... very cheerful, wonderful with my baby, and was able to get lots of big smiles from her. He was definitely a professional, and said he'd been working with babies for four years. It showed! I was very impressed. :)

If your photographer or salesperson is rude, that's a valid complaint and should be reported. If the photos seem too expensive, well, that's the nature of photography studios. :)

To the above comment, I have to remark that the point about Canadian Baby Photographers is that they are not studio quality / professional photo's. They're cheap shots taken in your home by young inexperienced photographers with cheap end Digital SLR's who then arrange your baby into 10 pre-defined poses against a screen backdrop. These shots are then digitally printed. If you want to compare them to another service compare them to Wal Mart or Sears, not decent professional studio shots done by real photographic artists who spend alot of time and effort to get the perfect photograph.

Hi As I was going through all the comments and well I had Canadian Photography comeing today to take the "Free" picture of my daughter but then called and cancelled because I don't want to have a pushy person in my house because I will tell him where to go .. and I have seen some of there pictures they do and I do better on my own with my props. And the Prices are Retarted.. My sister got sucked in and spent 600 bucks.. cause she though they were all good pictures but I didnt think they were that great for the price.. So thank you for helping me make my mind up they as well told me I would get a free gift if I give them an persons name .. ya ok I wont get sucked in that one..

Thanks

Contrary to tmc's post, the BBB does not post complaints on its website. Most of the hits for Canadian Baby came up with 0 complaints. There was one location with one complaint which said the following:"

Based on BBB files, this company has a satisfactory record with the Bureau. A satisfactory record means a company has been in business for at least 12 months, and properly addressed matters referred by the Bureau. The company does not have an unusual volume of complaints, or any government actions involving its marketplace conduct. The Bureau understands and has no concerns about the company's products, services and type of business.

When considering complaint information, please take into account the company's size and volume of transactions, and understand that the nature of complaints and a firm's responses to them are often more important than the number of complaints.

The Bureau processed a total of 1 complaint about this company in the last 36 months, our standard reporting period. Of the total of 1 complaint closed in 36 months, 1 was closed in the last year.

This complaint concerned:

1 Billing or Collection Issues

It was closed as:

1 Resolved

Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues. The consumer acknowledged acceptance to the BBB.
"

The fact that the BBB has a "satisfactory record" for Canadian Baby, in my opinion, totally discredits the BBB. Like I said before, I think the BBB is a waste time. I think your provincial consumer affairs office (see my previous post for contact info) has more authority and could actually lead to a solution.

Also, may I add RESP to your list of better things parents can spend their money on. I am very grateful my parents saved for my university education and didn't blow it on some baby photos (photos that I would rarely look at).

I agree that the pictures are amateur in quality... I am quite happy to pay for high quality. In my town, there is a woman who does professional quality photography and charges $150. This is her "sitting fee", however you get the negatives (or CD or whatever she uses to take the pictures) to do what you please. They are not copyright and you can make as many copies as you need (and have them developed where you'd like). To me, this is worthy of my hard earned dollars, especially when her pictures are very professional looking (lighting, props, backdrops, posing, etc.). But, like I said, not everyone can afford this and that is the way life works -- nothing wrong with this, especially when life costs so much on it's own! I had my daughter's pictures taken at Sears (they are not my top choice) and I would say they turned out the same as the Canadian Baby ones. And they were only $7.99 a sheet! So, remember people, you don't always get what you pay for and it helps to do your homework.

GO SOMEWHERE LOCAL AND CHECK PORTFOLIOS AND REFERENCES.

Also, to the person who was commenting about the BBB, I did not mean they post the actual complaints, but rather the number of complaints filed with them. One problem I had searching the BBB, was there are several other photographers (or companies) with similar names.

Wow! I was stunned when reading some of the comments! I feel bad for anyone with a bad experience. My 2 experiences with CB were mixed, as are a lot of postings here that I read. I had my daughter's pictures taken 2 1/2 years ago. As everyone else, I was called. I know they got my info. from the Welcome Wagon. I also understood when I had gone, the little card I signed gave them permission to release my info to the sponsors. Let me just say right off the bat, I am not a photographer, nor do I work for one, but merely a mother of 2, puting in her 2 cents worth! I knew when the photographer showed up, what was involved. Like in previous comments, the company has been around for 50+ years, and their tactics are pretty much the same. I understood this, no surprises. The photographer who came, was Debbra, and she was excellent. What makes me say this, is her speed in setting up, and getting the shots fast, and getting my daughter(4 months old at the time) to smile and ham it up. Debbra showed up at 9:15 am, was set up, took all needed shots, packed up, and was leaving my house by 9:45, 1/2 hour! I also loved the fact she came to me, and I didn't have to go anywhere! I was very impressed with how good she was. Now, having visited the website, I knew what poses they typically did, and was told what "supplies" to have ready for the different shots, which helped make things go more efficently. Now, my beef does come in with the sales man who showed up. Yes, I did find him aggressive, but he is a SALESMAN, that is his job! I guess I have had dealings with aggressive salesmen in the past, expected it, and was prepared to only buy what I wanted, and not get bullied into anything more. Having said that, I did buy the montages and a few other pictures, so I did not have to experience the "ugly side" of dealing with having to say no. My biggest problem with my first experience was how long it took to get my order! The pictures were taken at the start of December(2003) and after placing my substantial order, and numerous calls to find out what the delays were, I finally got my pictures in April, 4 months later! It floored me that when they had a guarenteed sale, they would take so long to fulfill it! (they did not process the payment until the week of them sending the pictures)

My second experience, I contacted them. I liked the pics of my daughter, and wanted the same of my son. Upon calling them, I commented that if they were going to take so long, I did not want them. The lady I talked to said they had had some "staff" problems, and she wanted to believe she was much more efficient at expediting things. I agreed. We lucked out and had the same photographer. I have to admit, I liked the different props for girls better (cute hats, butterfly wings) than what they had for the little boys.( not so fond of the tarzan and golf hat, etc.) I did not like the salesman who came, which was Joe, from the Stratford (Ontario) area. Yes, he gave me the whole "quality" and "memories" sales pitch, whatever. I told him right off the bat I wanted exactly what I got for my daughter, no more, no less. I guess I have gotten used to just tuning out the crap salesguys spew out. Well, someone in one of the previous blogs asked about deals, I did get one, because I was a previous customer. I got $150. knocked off, and because Debbra(Debbie?) had taken so many pictures, I easily got more than the 10 minimum. I had recieved 12 3 x 5 proofs with my daughter, and with my son, I got 14 5 x 7! No extra charge, the salesman said that consider it a bonus for my children being such good sports an cooperating for the camera. I had waited to have my son's pictures taken when he was 4 months like my daughter, so the pictures were comparable. I beleive this made a huge difference in how happy I was with them, and would recommend not having them taken earlier, unlike what they reccommended, just because they don't have good neck support. I had seen my friend's daughter's pictures taken, even by the same photographer, and I did not think they looked as good, because the baby was not able to sit up as well, or have the same facial expressions. My son is now 9 months, so my most recent experience was 5 months ago, and because I knew what to expect, everything went smoothly. The only hick up would have been the one meeting with the salesman being rescheduled for a week later, because he had noone else to see in my "remote area". Stratford is only 1/2 hour from Kitchener, and for a $700. order, I personally thought this would have been enough to travel, but maybe they don't get a very good commission, and this is why they are so aggressive??? I had also commented to my sales guy about the long wait I had before, and he expedited the order, and everything arrived on time, with no problems.

My only advice would be when dealing with this company: check out their webpage and view the poses they do, and if you don't like them, DON'T book the apointment, yes, they are expensive, yes they do use aggressive sales tactics, so if you aren't so good at dealing with them, then either avoid it, or have someone with you that is good at standing up to them, and finally, if things are not happening when they promised, like pictures taking too long, or salesmen not showing up, don't wait to call and find out why, do it the next day, because things do seem to fall through the cracks of this large company. Upon my followup, the different departments don't seem to communicate well, so be persistant. Good luck.

I remember when my wife first told me that she had invited a photographer over to take pictures of our first son. I was upset because I was going to university and we were surviving of her maternal leave. She said they would give a free picture with no obligation. I have no problems saying no to people so I agreed, free picture than hit the road. We lived in Lethbride Alberta at the time and when the man came to take the pictures he had followed professional standards and frankly I was amazed at how well he was able to get pictures of our one month old. Like "Dash" he was able to maintain a pose and get pictures off. When I saw my boy as tarzan, holding a football, Lettuce head, naked I could not wait to see the proofs. When I saw them I did not care what the price was and it was my wife holding me back . If I did have a complaint it was how much they cost, Thanks Mom. If it was'nt for mom I would have mortgaged the house. Everyone who has ever seen them can't beleive how great they are. I have an original art Collection insured at $15,000 and they don't get nearly as much attention as the baby pictures. Luck of the draw but unfortunate there standards are'nt nation wide. Walmart did'nt even take his socks of and Sears waiting list has been way to long despite one of the best pictures we have came from sears. Who else do people suggest and please provide webpage with samples as we just had our second.

Today my baby and daughter had their pictures done. The man who did the pics was very pleasant and great with the kids. My son who has a hernia and is nine weeks old the man was very patient with him and would wait til he settled down he was not pushy and if the baby didn't want a pic we didn't do it.

Today my baby and daughter had their pictures done. The man who did the pics was very pleasant and great with the kids. My son who has a hernia and is nine weeks old the man was very patient with him and would wait til he settled down he was not pushy and if the baby didn't want a pic we didn't do it.

Today my baby and daughter had their pictures done. The man who did the pics was very pleasant and great with the kids. My son who has a hernia and is nine weeks old the man was very patient with him and would wait til he settled down he was not pushy and if the baby didn't want a pic we didn't do it.

I have read with interest most of the comments on CBP, I have many years experiance in this business and would say that , it is a business and when the sytem works it works well. when it doesnt, it can be dismal. the same can be said for Jostens, Lifetouch or any high volume photo company.Canadian Church Directories is another., Sears, Walmart all use the same style and technique. How ever what seems to be missing here is the fact these products are driven by the consumer. The style, speed and system all created and guided by the consumer. Independant photographers struggle to survive in todays enviroment because the consumer won't go and research and find one. Nor will they pay a reasonable rate for a fair day's work. We live in a consumer driven market that is why Loblaws now does portraits too, perhaps we should all buy our groceries at Canadian Tire?

Hello I'm experience was not a great one. It was 2004 and a sales person called and arrenged to meet me in one week. A person called the day before to tell me what he would need a couple of towls, a blanket and a toy. He came in set up with out saying a word after the anishel Hello and who he was. He asked when the babie last ate to make sure she wouldn't be hungery. So he went on took the pictures took his time well doing it. So it seemed like he could be getting some good shoots.I asked if had a broucher about the pakages he said no the person that comes back with the free photo would have the purch information. So I thought to my self how many appoinments is this going to take because I'm not the type to decied in a matter of minutes, and my husband would like to go over the packags as well. Right before he left he gave me my free gift if you can call it that, and said they would in touch with me.
Two months had passed then I recived a letter in the mail. Saying to call get the online vewing what I thought no way I do want my babies picture open to everyone. I also did not have a computer at the time. So I called they said not a problem they will come out show me the pictures and packages. So I said ok, and made appointment. No one showed up or called so I called back several times. It was the same thing we will get back to you with what happened, then the last time I called they transfered for me by hanging up. i just happenen to come a cross the old letter they sent so I decied to take a look on the net to see what I could find. So now I know with out a dout that it was not just me. So I'll make sure all my friends and family members do not use these people so thank you so very much. Bracebridge Ontario

I had an excellent experience with my photo session. The photographer was unassuming, quick, and very professional. Although the photos were pricey, they were far better than any we'd had done previously by other companies. The salesman was not so good - wrinkled suit, body odor, a little too aggressive for the sale - but I had not problem saying thanks but no thanks when I needed to. They can only make you feel guilty if you let them!

WOW!!!! I really have got to say what a bunch of whiny, greedy, selfish people!!!! I can't believe that you have the balls to come on here and actually whine about paying $300 for baby pictures!!! Last I heard no salesman no matter how pushy could force anyone into signing a check...you poor, mistreated people. Oh for Gods sake people you are in charge JUST SAY NO!!!!! It seems to me that most of you are whining because you didnt get enough for free or the photo's were too expensive!!! Well then I dare you, right now call up any photographer in the book and ask them to come over to your house and do a free sitting and give you a free 5x7 with no obligation. Hmmmm bet you can't find a single one.While you are at it get their prices to come out and do such a sitting and ask what their prices are for prints....bet they are more....
As for those of you on here that are saying that these are not professional photographers, what is your definition of professional let me tell you Oxfords definition.

Profession. 1 a job that needs training and a formal qualification. 2 a body of people engaged in a profession

Professional 1 relating to or belonging to a profession 2 engaged in activity as a PAID JOB rather than as a AMATURE. 3 competent....a person who is very skilled in a particular activity.

So I guess being that most of these photographers have training and get paid to do this job...wow...professional!!! As for competent you are right some may not be competent in your opinion, but your opinion is your own. So unless you have had personal experience with every one of the photographers or at least a large number of them then I don't think any of you are qualified to make this sort of general comment. I mean, are all Doctors, Lawyers, Teachers etc...competent???? If you get 1 bad Teacher, are you now qualified to state that all the teachers working at that school are unprofessional and incompetent???? hmmm something ot think about.
Lets get something clear here folks!!! These photographers are contracted.....they are told what poses to do and how to set their lights, Canandian Baby has a "formula" for all their photographers to follow.A formula that has proven to work for them for many years now. Sure maybe they are selling out, or maybe they are trying to make a living doing some of that they love rather than go work at Wal mart or Loblaws for $7.00 an hour!!!!I happen to personally know 1 of their photographers, she is a phenomenal photographer in her personal work, she loves being able to work with babies all day and Canadian Baby allowes her the freedom to choose what private work she does on the side.Canadian Baby is simply a vehicle for most of these photographers to use as a way to make a "consistant" income to support their families. Because lets face it, and any honest photographer will agree, there are no guarantees in business when you go out on your own full time, and when you are a one income family with small children to raise you need something more concrete. ( P.S. if asked she is more than happy to be a little more creative and improvise, and I think most of the other photographers would be too)
To "KIM" from february...I don't see where you have any room to critisize, I had a look at your website, I have to say you have no idea on how to handle natural light, there is very little in the way of catchlights in those kids eyes, poor exposures and overall nothing to brag about!!!Of course this is my own personal opinion valuable mostly to just me. (yes I know, everyone is a critic)!!!!
So to get to my point...if you don't like the pictures then fine, DON'T BUY!!! If you get a pushy sales guy just say no!!!! If you think you can do better than please by all means do and don't waste these photographers time.Because in reality people for every one of you who complain and dislike the Pictures for whatever reason, there are 20 other people who love them and want to buy them. And to the other photographers out there who claim to be professional then at least put your money where your mouth is, there is no need to trash others in the business, there is more than enough business to go around. Yes while Canadian Baby Photographers poses and selling tactics may not appeal to everyone lets keep in mind here people that they are a business, if you really thought that they were going to hand over a bunch of pics for free than you are cheap!!! I am not saying you are cheap if you do not purchase these pictures. They have to be worth it to you. This company has been around for so long, there are people out there who love them and people out there who don't...neither is wrong, this is the wonderful thing about being able to choose for yourself.

I thank you for taking the time to read my post.

Have a wonderful day and God Bless.

I won't write something irate in response to the 'whiny, greedy, selfish' comment above, but I will point out that the poster would do well to consider that different people have different means, and throwing around that kind of prejorative language is pretty inconsiderate. People who are slamming CBP are slamming a company, whereas that post is slamming individuals...

Anyway, our experience. Pretty textbook, it seems. My wife and son had a reasonably pleasant experience with the photo shoot, but the salesman was a different story. He started by asking us what we wanted to pay, we countered by asking what he had to offer. He pulled out what he called the starting price list (lowest price was $350ish) and did his pitch. We retired to the other room, and quickly agreed we couldn't swing it. When we went back to tell him, he pulled out a lower priced list. Again, though, the prices seemed very high for what we were being offered.

If CBP was much more upfront about price range before the sales visit, we would not have booked at all, but that seems to be their policy. It bothered us, then, when the sales guy became increasingly pushy, his arguments alternating between 'the company is barely getting back what we spent on your shoot' and 'you'll be sorry if you don't get these, because your son won't look like this ever again (etc, etc). We felt rising guilt, but stuck to our guns. When he finally accepted our 'no' he grudgingly gave us a free print (to be fair, one he offered, not one we asked for), but then took ten or fifteen minutes to pack his display.

One other annoyance: we have a fish tank in our home with a Taj Mahal model in it. Seeing this, the sales guy put on a fairly offensive Indian accent and made some 'joke' about it. I'm sure he didn't realize that my wife is half Indian (and my son therefore a quarter) but note to CPB (who it seems is monitoring this blog fairly closely): you might want to push your sales people to avoid casual racism. It made it much easier to say no.

I won't write something irate in response to the 'whiny, greedy, selfish' comment above, but I will point out that the poster would do well to consider that different people have different means, and throwing around that kind of prejorative language is pretty inconsiderate. People who are slamming CBP are slamming a company, whereas that post is slamming individuals...

Anyway, our experience. Pretty textbook, it seems. My wife and son had a reasonably pleasant experience with the photo shoot, but the salesman was a different story. He started by asking us what we wanted to pay, we countered by asking what he had to offer. He pulled out what he called the starting price list (lowest price was $350ish) and did his pitch. We retired to the other room, and quickly agreed we couldn't swing it. When we went back to tell him, he pulled out a lower priced list. Again, though, the prices seemed very high for what we were being offered.

If CBP was much more upfront about price range before the sales visit, we would not have booked at all, but that seems to be their policy. It bothered us, then, when the sales guy became increasingly pushy, his arguments alternating between 'the company is barely getting back what we spent on your shoot' and 'you'll be sorry if you don't get these, because your son won't look like this ever again (etc, etc). We felt rising guilt, but stuck to our guns. When he finally accepted our 'no' he grudgingly gave us a free print (to be fair, one he offered, not one we asked for), but then took ten or fifteen minutes to pack his display.

One other annoyance: we have a fish tank in our home with a Taj Mahal model in it. Seeing this, the sales guy put on a fairly offensive Indian accent and made some 'joke' about it. I'm sure he didn't realize that my wife is half Indian (and my son therefore a quarter) but note to CPB (who it seems is monitoring this blog fairly closely): you might want to push your sales people to avoid casual racism. It made it much easier to say no.

I live in the Stratford, ON area and am really surprised to see so many complaints, from all around!

Like so many people, I too was looking for contact info for Canadian Baby, when I came across this blog! I have had two "incidences" with this company. Each time the photographer was wonderful, it's the salesman that I had the issue with! He was absolutely rude and got quite angry after we rejected the first couple of packages, saying that obviously we couldn't afford "quality professional" photos, and that we were "wasting his time". (Unbeknownst to him we have dealt with professional photographers quite a few times in the past couple of years, so I'm not uncomfortable paying professional fees.) Needless to say we took our free 5 x 7 and showed him the door.

I had forgotten all about Canadian Baby until just recently after I had my second child I received another call from them. And stupid me, I opened my doors to them once again.She took some awesome pics and I'm really excited to see them! That's where my problem lies this time...I haven't seen them yet!!
They have contacted me once saying that a rep would be in my area in a week, and did I have time? I told them it should be fine, but to get back in touch with me that Monday and I'd let them know! That was three weeks ago!

Unfortunately for them I was really excited about these photos and was definately considering making a purchase, but...I think I'd rather save myself the hassel and call one of the many talented photographers in my area.

I had Canadian baby come to my home to show me the pictures of my daughter they had taken a month b/c. I liked the man who took the pics. He wa sa little aburbt but made her smile in every pose. i liked the salesman who came to show us the pics but I totally agree about the prices. I wen to the Great Canadian superstore and had beautiful pics taken for way less money. I will sugest that anyone wanting great oics of their babies , that cannot afford 100''s of dollars, go there for their pics.

I just had my 7 month old pics done and they also took pics of my 3yr old. The lady seemd veary nice and friendly, but veary focased. yes they did kind of hassle me but I was veary straight with them. When they were done they showed me the pics on a digital screen, they siad they would be ready in a week but they called me back in 2 days and siad they were done and could come over tonight. I siad sure and they are comeing when my husband gets of work, I guess since reading I am kind of nervouse about the prices, but I hope it's not as bad as everyone makes it seem. I guess everyone has the wright to state thir opinion but Mothers and Fathers should not be saying stupide things like some pepole are too cheep and on,and on YOU KNOW! WE have kids ,dont act like kids.

First off, to all those people who wrote comments about how we should be ashamed for not buying any of our baby's pictures from Can. Baby, you can get pics that are just as good from anywhere else. There is no way it costs that much for a decent picture. And as for having babies who are "not well-behaved" as one person posted, how would you feel if you were new to this world and one of your first experiences was to have some stranger dressing you up and putting you in unnatural poses for a baby? My experience with them has caused me to tell all my friends who are expecting (which are quite a few) not to let them come to their house. I must say though that the photographer was great and the pictures were nice. However, the salesman made me feel like total crap! I told him straight off that I didn't think I could afford a package. So he did try to help me by saying that the best he could do was to sell me the proofs and the brag book for $235. Still way too much for me, being that I am a single mother, which I told him. After accidentally stating that I thought it was a bit of a rip-off, he proceeded to sweep the proofs off the table saying that he couldn't sell anything to someone who thinks it is a rip-off. Not only that but you don't even get to choose the picture you want even though the website says you do. By the time he was done and gone, I was in tears because he made me feel like a bad mother by telling me that my baby was worth every penny and blah blah. Even though I've already spent quite a bit on pictures of her through other photographers. She is a precious being but don't ever let these people suck you in by saying "Isn't your baby worth it?"

well i must say that i had an experience with two companies in toronto, babies first pictures and great canadian baby photographers. the first one was when she was 2 weeks old.i thought at the time that that went well but the one thing that scared me was that the photographer looked like a petafile, creapy very creapy.so when they called for another i said i had already had pictures done.....well they went on to say they were a different campany and how there was no oblication and so on and so on....so i finally gave in. my daughter was then three months old. i didnt know exactly why i was doing this due to the cost ower children are beautiful and these moments only happen once but really is there any reason for chargeing so much? first it was $700.00 then two months later another $500.00. but on to what i was saying the gentleman came in and was wonderful with her she was smiling from ear to ear.i was very pleased....

i just wanted to add that my expirence on southern vancouver island wasn't that great, the photographer was very nice and pushy all at the same time, none of the pictures really showed her true personality, never mind she was crying the whole time, and he just wiped away the tears and continued taking pictures

Boy oh boy...I am getting alot of great info here on Canadian baby. Firstly I have been HOUNDED by their phone calls for 5 months now...thank god for call display. Today unfortunetly I got caught and have booked a sitting for tomorrow...I will now call back and cancel. I don't appreciate the pushy sales tactics this company seems to lower themselves to. I have been bombarded with sales people (from welcome wagon) and I am at my wits end...hmm, diapers, or a picture of my kid with fruit on his head...it doesn't take a genious to figure that one out.

I too was HOUNDED by them calling and finally asked them to stop. I got amazing pictures taken at Zehrs in Kitchener and they were wonderful with the babies-I have two only 11 months apart.

Be careful with Welcome Wagon-it sounds good but you get annoying people calling for months and months after about pictures, college funds, scrap booking, gift baskets and everything else you could possibly imagine.

I just got a call from this company today. She just said that it was Canadian Baby calling and then started asking if I had my baby, when and what was her name, confirmed my address and then hung up. She said something really fast and wouldn't repeat it because I hadn't heard what she said. I am assuming from reading these postings it was about the free gift or something. I had no idea who they were and would like to know how they got my number and knew that I had my baby! I am glad I found this site, I will not be letting them into my house and thinking they can even touch my child.

Ok I had pictures done a month ago and I am so pleased about them they are what I wanted and ya the prices are insane but what do you expect with it being profesional. So ya I have nothing bad to say about them they are great and you are getting your moneys worth

Ok I had pictures done a month ago and I am so pleased about them they are what I wanted and ya the prices are insane but what do you expect with it being profesional. So ya I have nothing bad to say about them they are great and you are getting your moneys worth

This is amazing that I came across this site as I have also had a horrible experience with this so called professional company that has been around for 40 years. Yes, 7 years ago I had my sons pictures done and yes we paid an insane amount of money that could have been well used for anything more worth while ie. RESPs. Don't get me wrong the pics were great and the experience was fine but the past is not repeating itself. We have now just had a baby girl and actually they were calling me 2 months before our baby was born. I do fill out the odd card but come on at least wait until the due date entered has passed. Well the phone rang & rang and I too finally agreed to have them come to my home on short notice. First off I felt completely bombbarded and he rearranged furniture, smelled like cigarette smoke, used the Lords name in vain, cussed - (S&^*), and was rough with my 7lb little baby girl. Well he never did finish his shoot because "my baby was tired or hungry or something" - He said that I would be receiving a phone call to finish the shoot which I received last week and they said that this never happened and I have never even been on their list.
How ridiculous - this is unfortunate that I will NOT be getting a montage for my daughter as I have one for my son. Nor will I be have CBP for any of my future children!!

Forgot to mention that I did get my daughters portraits done at Zehrs Photo Studio - absolutely amazing and the price is right - now I can spend that extra money that I didn't hand over to CBP and get her pics done more often.

My friend stumbled onto this site and used it to bone up. Keeping her story short she was brought to tears. Walking to the door the sales person said that they didn't "get what her problem was" so in anger she told them to check the net. One person who posted a positive review here has the same name and city as the photographer that did my friend's pictures. The post was dated within the week after her appointment. Hmmm, could be a coincidence but I think not.

Tonight the sales rep. is coming to see me. I live in Vancouver. I was given a free growth chart (which is real piece of crap) by the photographer and a gift certificate that says $300 value along the top in bold. Under it gives me CB contact info then eventually says free baby portrait and free online parenting books. Now I know that one picture is not $300 so what's with the gift certificate? I went to the website for the books and they are $25 each or less and total under $200. But I can get all the proofs for $100 and not just one picture. I tried to call CB several times during business hours and no one answered the phone, not even the head sales manager. I kept getting a machine (didn't return my calls either). I "won" a photo but that 1 picture and the books don't total $300. "Gift Certificate $300 Value" is big and bold and separated from anything else so it's misleading. Maybe I'm wishful thinking. Either way, if it's books and 1 free photo it doesn't add up to the value of the gift certificate and that's false advertising.

Like others the photographer was great with my son. Smiles all around, he was gentle, very quick and let me have time to give my son a bottle. He's apparently been doing portrait photography for 20 years and it showed. I worked in a frame shop before giving birth and know that all the poses are standard. I don't care for the fake plastic fruit but what can you do. I have been asking around and several moms from my baby group, their friends and families, bought the proofs for $100 total not $15 each ($5-10 difference) and the package prices changed with each person. Plus the free photo varied from 5x7 to 8x10. Since I know the 8x10 has been given out I'm going to push for that. I'm not spending more than the possible $100 if the pictures are nice. I'm prepared to walk away with my 1 free shot. Wish me luck, I'll let you know how it goes.

My experience with Canadian Baby Photographers is a mixture of good and bad. The photographer that came was very good. He was good with my daughter and he let me handle her myself when needed. I was really looking forward to viewing the pictures of my baby. Well the salesman came tonight with the prints. I can say i was dissappointed. The pictures turned out well but my baby didn't look quite what i'd imagined. My husband was sent out of town unexpectedly so he wasn't able to view the pictures. The salesman took out the packages and i swear my eyes must have bugged out of my head. New parents have enough expenses with diapers and formula and they expect us to shell out that kind of dough? He did tell me that there was payment plans available. Well i told him that i would need to discuss it further with my husband. He was dropping hints that it was a one time presentation and that he couldn't be back. I told him that i would discuss it with my husband and then call the office with my decision. He said to me, and i quote, "Maybe i'm not making myself clear". I thought that was pretty rude of him to say. How do they expect you to view the pictures and make a decision to spend that kind of money in a matter of minutes. He did offer to tell the office that i wasn't here and that they would make another "presentation". My choices are to pay minimum $70CAD and i would get my free 5x7 portrait plus 2 others and they keep the pictures on file for 3 years,or i pay nothing, get my free portrait and not get a chance to order pictures down the road when finances allow it more. I wish i would have gotten advance warning that a final decision was to be made the day of the presentation.

Well I feel a bit like a dummy. Much like most of the parents above I too fell victim to CBP. The salesman just left with all his expensive pricelists and tacky samples and it was all I could do to hold in the tears because we couldn't even afford to buy the frickin proof shots. For crying out loud, the cost of some of these so called "sale" packages was more than we pay in rent in one month!

I too was called shortly after my daughter was born. No free gift was offered, but they did call our home several times and surprisingly when I did decide to inquire (against my best judgement)the extension they gave me always went to a voicemail box. Finally, a woman called me back, I asked several times about how they obtained my phone number and personal information as we had just moved and I had not provided my info to anyone other than family. She insisted that they get referred to their "clients" by my friends or family at supermarkets and drugstores...sure you do. I had a bad feeling about it but I agreed to make an appointment.

On the day of our appointment the woman photographer called several times insisting that she had a cancellation and that we could do it earlier. I informed her that would not work for us and she seemed pissed off. Anyways, she showed up right on time, almost early. In a snap she had our coffee table converted into a full blown baby stage and the rest of our living room converted too with a torn backdrop and 2 umbrella lights. I do have to say she asked where she could wash her hands and I did appreciate that. She then twisted my daughter into cute but odd poses. She got a little irritated as the lady pulled the pacifier out of her mouth over and over again. I have to admit the photographer was quite professional and knew all the tricks to get my baby to look here and there smile but she did seem a little unaffected by the baby and her cuteness (she really is a charmer!) Funny how in retrospect it makes sense.

Well, upon leaving she did try to sell me something that looked like a dollar store tiny photobook, and I passed on it. Well that was 2 weeks ago. The salesman came today...he was also friendly, but took his sweet old time and tried to guilt us into buying everything in his bag. I can't even express how shocked I was to see the prices and even more shocked to see how average the pics were. I'm tempted to call them back to book another sitting and do like someone here said...have my digital camera ready and start snaping at the same time...it's my house, my baby and my stuff, if you don't like it leave right?!

Anyways, sorry to make this so long but I think it is a terrible scam these people are running and they need to be stopped. Here's what I suggest everyone with the same experiences does: #1-Contact the Better Business Bereau. #2-Don't even consider purchasing a single picture from them, I know it's hard! #3-Tell at least 5 people about your terrible experience, bad word of mouth is the best key in ruining their future. #4-If this still doesn't make you feel better do like I am going to do...I'm contacting Silverman at City TV in Toronto. If you're not familiar with him he's a reporter who gets justice for people who have been screwed by a business, every local channel usually has one like him.

Lastly, make sure if you feel scammed DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!!! If you do nothing, others will get screwed too! Oh and for all those fake positive experiences, how pathetic do you have to be to make up fake positive experiences? Pretty sad.

I found your site after Canadian Baby Photographers had already been to my home and taken the pictures. I was looking for info on their pricing as I heard they were quite expensive. Well, I was a little nervous about it after reading some of the comments here.

Anyway, a woman came to take the photos. She was great. Asked questions about my daughter (who is 4 months old), made her laugh and when my daughter was getting a bit bored, she waited a couple of minutes while I walked around with her. She took about 15 photos...even some of me and my daughter.

I had heard they were expensive, so my husband and I decided ahead of time what we were comfortable spending. From this site, I figured we would spend about $120 for 7 small proofs. I was okay with that amount seeing as how the photographer had to commute to my house and spent about 40 minutes at my home. When the sales rep came with the proofs less than 2 weeks later (which were 5x7's to my surprise!), he went through all the price lists saying they could customize. We waited until he was done and asked about just buying the proofs. We could for $199. Then we counted the pictures we really liked and asked if we could just buy those ones (there were 9 in total). That's what we did.

I was happy with the price as the pictures were 5X7's and not some small proof...they are actually useable. Granted, the smiles my daughter has in some of the pictures aren't her nicest...but what baby gives you a great smile every time...and it's nice to have some different expressions. We did get 1 5x7 free as well. We were even able to keep the proofs we bought the same day so there was no shipping.

We got the free 5x7 and sitting fees covered through WelcomeWagon, who came around shortly after my daughter was born.

My suggestion is to know what you want to spend before hand. Also consider the time they take to come to your home, especially if you call them. I tried taking my daughter to Wal-Mart but she was so distracted by everything there and the first photo they take has to be your package photo. I saw the woman before me spend $250 just to get a few different shots. I gave up because I didn't like the photos they were taking. When she's a bit older, I'm sure it will work great, but for now...the photographer in my home was wonderful.

I was doubtful at first but after the photographer showed up and took some absolutely stunning poses of my daughter, I was intrigued to see what the portraits cost. The follow up visit was by an extremely polite and sincere sales rep who laid out the options very clearly along with what alternatives were possible to cut the cost down.

We ended up spending about $275 on a customized package that used about 6 of the 15 odd shots that were presented which will make awesome gifts for family and friends.

I had a very good experience with the photographer. He was very professional and gentle with my little guy. HOWEVER, the salesman that came to show me the pictures was a jerk. He was pushy and as soon as he thought he was not getting a sale from me he changed his attitude. I could not decide on a package right away because my husband was busy with my upset little guy and I asked if we could keep the package prices and order in a day or two. He said no I had to buy something right away. How am I supposed to make a decision on a $300 package, without my husband, in 10 minutes that he was there while the only income I am bringing in is mat leave. The sales man says,"that is why we like to have the husband present." Can he not see...hear would be the better word...that he is busy at the moment. "We cannot hold them for you because it costs alot to store them and we do not know if there is any interest in purchasing...." after I told him we would like to purchase at least two times...in the end I told him it was too bad but I guess we were just going to have to take our free one if that was the case. Boy, was he mad...but nice enought to let me know that my pictures would be recycled!!!

I was contacted by CBP with an offer of a free gift when I had my son in 2004. They did tell me that pictures would be taken during the appointment and what we needed to do to be ready. They asked what would be the best time for us, so they could get the best pictures. I did feel pressured into agreeing, but did anyway.
When the photographer showed up, he was very nice and was excellent with posing my son and getting him to smile. He showed me the shots on his digital camera before he left and some of them were very good! He informed me they would call to book an appointment to see the phtotos in about a week.
A woman did call, saying a gentleman would come by to show me the pictures. She was very concerned about me not being here by myself when he came, which seemed weird but ok.
When he did come, he was very nice. He did pull out multiple price lists like others here have said, but all of them were extremely expensive! I felt VERY pressured into buying them, but some of them were very good pictures. They seem to be very good at suckering you in!
What gets me is the "free gift". With the package I bought, all the proofs were included. Well the "free gift" is one of the 5x7 proofs. I didn't quite think it through until he left, but how could it be a free gift if I was paying for it??!!
Well I now have a two month old daughter, and the one thing holding me back about getting her pictures done by CBP is the price. I love the photos of my son and want her to have the same. But then I could always take the photos of my son to someone else and have them try to do the same I suppose.
Overall I wouldn't say my experience was horrible, but they are a very pushy company and are very experienced at taking you in.

An alternative for families in the Vancouver GVRD Area. We are introducing new backgrounds all the time.

http://www.VancouverBabyPhotography.com

Thank you

Ellen
604 681 2252

I am SO GLAD that I've found this link. You know what, they are supposed to come this afternoon and I called them and left a message to cancel the appointment just now. My baby is just 3 months, and we are all very busy people (I still need to take care of work at home) and I don't want to risk.

After reading several of the comments, I decided to write one as well - a mostly positive one (not a "fake positive experience") as suggested by Isabelle A. dated July 19, 2006.
When my first son was born 4 1/2 years ago, CBP contacted me. There was no mention of a free gift except that I could keep one of the sample pictures even if I decided not to buy anything.
The photographer came buy and made what little space we had available into a little photo studio. She was awesome. She had my son smiling on almost every shot. She was very professional and very nice.
A couple weeks later someone came by to show us the pictures. They were all wonderful. We ended up purchasing a package and I believe it cost us around $600. Much more than we should have spent. Our sales person was not pushy - I guess we just got lucky.
The only problem I do have with this company is the prices and the lack of options for those who can only afford so much due to fact that there is only one salary coming into the household. If there were better options, we wouldn't have spent as much as we had.
All in all, I had a good experience and will be calling them to book an appointment for our new addition.
I would recommend this company to anyone in Calgary and area.

I was contacted by CBP also after the birth of both of my sons. I had already heard through friends how expensive and pushy they could be. I just think it is totally inappropriate for the hospital to sell your information after you have a baby... I was hounded for weeks, not just by CBP, but by RESP people, etc.. etc.. etc.. Especially when this time after having a baby can leave a family in a state of emotional confusion and figuring out routines, getting used to having a baby isn't always easy, and for these business to 'harrass' families at this time is being invasive and out of line.
I simply said "NO" to the person on the phone from CBP. I have always used Zehrs portrait studio. You can't beat their prices and quality and options! The word of Zehrs has obviously caught on, as it can be difficult to get in for an appt. But if you plan ahead, it is well worth the time and money!

My experience with CBP was very positive my son was born late 2003 and when CBP called me I was very excited, they told me my free gift would be 1 3x5 proof, which was fine with me. they explained to me what I would need to have ready for them and they did ask me what time was best for me, my son was barely 2 mths and he gave the photographer nothing but smirks and mischievous looks (the photographer did an amazing job), now I agree the prices are outrageous (I knew going in that these would not be cheap as any specialized item is never cheap) I ended up buying proofs only BUT I’m expecting another addition to the family in two mths and I will be contacting CBP to do the portraits (even though I am now a professional photographer myself) I feel you should never do less for your other children then you did with your first….the KIDS should never have to ask: where’s my pictures like that, how come I don’t have any like them? What would you say to them? Sorry kid it was just too pricey to do it a 2nd time around??? I think the child would feel like they where worth less then their older sibling.
I’m located in Winnipeg and I do hope I have the same experience the 2nd time around, I did not have a pushy salesman either…but then I’m not very easily pushed into doing or purchasing anything I don’t want.

All I can saw about these guys is how lame their picture styles are. It's like the cheesiest garbage out there. The towel folded over the head, the sunflower crap. It's all the same photos the photographers have to take. There's no creativity, no heart.

We were at the baby show last weekend in Vancouver and saw way better photographers there - real qualify stuff in my opinion. Canadian baby photographers is a joke - go spend your money elsewhere.

We brought them in for the free sample, and won't buy any of the other crap from them. Too bad for them for offering a free sample haha...

i just get contacted by these people and the lady who called is a lil bit bithcy..pushy. and i just gave birth to my son last aug. 27 06. he doesnt even smile at. not unless he's sleeping.
but after reading u guy's comment i think id rather cancel it or when they show up and give me a bad attitude, i will throw them out of my house. like really literally. get their name and phone number a picture of their face and sue them afterwards. dont u think thats awesome to do?

I would also like to say that I had a bad experience with this company. I must say that the photographer was very pleasant, and the whole session was done in a matter of about twenty minutes. However, when the salesman came into our home, it was a nightmare. He was fine until we explained that we weren't looking to spend a fortune, we just wanted a picture for this three month mark. This is when things changed. He immediately said, "Oh, I can't help you then", and in a huff, started to pack up his things. I was immediately annoyed and told him that I wasen't going to miss out on my sons picture, and I was going to get some whether it was what he wanted or not. I could not beleive the nerve of this guy in my own home. (by the way this was after waiting over a month for this guy to come in the first place) Apparently they only made it out to my area once in a while! I will never use this company again, and have spread it around to as many people as possible.

I'm very grateful I found this site as I have been panicing that I have unknowingly given out information for would be kidnappers. It's currently 1 am and I'm searching to see if these people are in fact photographers just to ease my mind into going to sleep (the litte bit I get with a newborn):).
This lady had called and started asking every thing from my new address and what type of building it was to my daughter's birthdate and current weight and then wanting to know if she had any siblings and if we had pictures done of him as well as his age. Of course I didn't really think any thing about it at the time even though the questions were quite personal and unusual for a stranger to be asking and it was right after I hung up that my husband was questioning my answers and saying why did you give out that kind of information? The lady had said that I had filled out a card... I don't ever remember filling out any card except the one at Wal-mart saying "Expecting" but I don't think that had anything to do with pictures.
I did decline them saying that I had just gotten pictures done (Wal-mart variety)and I didn't need any pictures. They quickly informed me that they will call back in three months and then hung up.
We'll see if they bother me again and I know exactly what to say to them if they do call in three months!!!
Thanks!

Just had the misfortune of sitting through an uncomfortable pitch by a BCP saleman. Lasted less than 20 minutes and he was shown the door. It saddens me that good decent folk who might find it hard to say no in the face of a relentless sales pitch might sucumb to what I can only describe as a disgraceful scam! I'm pretty ticked off that my home number was given to these guys. My advice - do some research and find yourself a photographer with good referrals, or at least go to a sears or loblaws. Even if the BCP photographer is excellent - that does not justify a $400+ price tag for an end product that is quite frankly pathetic and probably cost less than $5 to package.

I just had a Canadian baby photographer come to my house. I have to say he was the nicest guy. Very patient with both my girls. And yes I know it is expencive, but what profesional photographer isn't..Unless you go to sear or walmart...But they are normal people who are not trained to do this...These people went to college for photography to do this. So for people who can afford it, I say its a must thing to do..

Hi, I am recently going thru problems with Canadian Baby Photographer. Just like everyone else, I got a call, setup the appointment, the photographer came, the sales person came ...etc. I have to say, both photographer and sales were ok, Photographer told me she's with the company 2 months; Sales person was nice and all, HOWEVER, the price was too much; in the end, the sales ended up telling me if I wanted to buy the proofs (total 18; 12 for new born and 6 for big sister), it will be $99.99 (less than $100) I never thought the price of proof would be that expensive, the sales said the price of the proofs $99.99 BARELY covers the cost of the Photographer and him......Anyway, at the time, i declined. But, my husband asked the sales person if we do decide to buy the proofs later, how do we order, same pitch, call the 1800#, etc......

Sales came Friday night...and over the weekend, we decided to buy off the proofs from CB; so I called up Monday, the CSR told me they don't have the file yet AND there's no such price, it would be $199.99 ($200???) for all the proofs. What a price different..... after couple days (Wed. 11/22/06), CSR called back saying they got the pictures sent back to their main office, and the price is still $199.99 for all the proofs....So, I said no way, what a price diff. then gave up. After the phone call, I felt quite upset about the way they lie to customers about the pricing.....I wrote an email to their sales/photography email addresses to ask them to call me back....., no reply...; So, again, next day, I forwarded the same email to CSR dept asking to call me back.... still no response. Monday (11/27/06)I left 2 msgs with their CS manager... no reply. This afternoon, I called again, finally got a hold of the CS manager. I got a cold reply saying: it's 3 proofs for $99.99..... WHAT THE????What's wrong with them with the pricing?? Everyone seems to set a price themselves??? This got me sooo upset, so I asked CS manager to get the sales person to call me back; she said if the sale doesn't call back today (11/29/06), then, give her a call again tomorrow.....

Well, it's 8:00pm Wednesday night (11/29/06), no response from the sales yet... I am going to call the CS Manager again on Thursday. If I don't hear from the sales again, I am filing a complaint to BBB....... stay tuned......///// Doris H.

Well I recieved a call today from canadian Baby to come out on Monday. So they are coming out on Monday and I will tell everyone how my visit went. I asked them if the hospital had sent them my address and everything, but they said no. So i'm trying to figure out where they got my info from because the hospital didn't even have my new phone number and my number is unlisted. But i will be letting everyone know how my sitting went. It's funny how they are just calling me now though, because my baby will be 6 months on the 20th of this month. My sister had a good experience with Canadian Baby, it was expensive, I think she paid $200.00 for what she got, but she was pleased other wise. I don't know if I want to spend that much because I don't have that much money to spend on pictures.

I will keep everyone posted

Well I had the people from Canadian baby come out and I was surprised, my daughter was great with him, she smiled for him and everything for just waking up from a nap. The man was very polite, now he just kinda moved my furniture around without asking me to move it, but no big deal. It was quick, he even gave me price ranges on the packages, he didn't know for sure because that's not his department. Overall it wasn't a bad experience, I'll let you know more when they come out to show me the photos that were done. I'll keep everyone posted!

So, I filed BBB complaint, and also spoke to Sales person, he remembered he offered me 99.99 for all the proofs.....However, company kept saying I "misunderstood" and "misinterpreted" their offer.....anyway, short story, Cdn Baby unwilling to budge with the price, only reduced to 179.99 for all the proofs......so, BBB couldn't do anything, BBB complaint file closed.///DH

Well lets see, Canadian Baby came out to my house December 9th or so and said that they would contact me in two weeks about the photos. I still haven't heard anything from them. I'll give it some more time only because of the holidays before I call them to see what's going on.

I posted in May: that the CB photographer was great and wondered about the sales guy, my friend had a terrible experience, I was given a gift certificate for $300 along with online books, and that I knew several people who bought all the proofs for $100. I was talking this week with another mom and realized I forgot to post my update. Here it is in it's amusing glory. (Just to mention, the hospital or Welcome Wagon did not give my info. I did not get a WW visit until my son was 6 1/2 months. CB called 2 months before my due date and aggressively wanted to take pictures of our baby. How embarrassing for them.)

An appointment was made for sales and I was supposed to get a call to confirm. Got that but the guy never showed. His name was Brett and covered the South Delta area. No call, no apologies, no nothing. A couple weeks later CB finally called to confirm my ORDER... I told them buddy didn't show. Another appt. made for a week or so later. Since I knew Brett was specifically coming back (there's just one other rep who covers this area) I spoke with other people about CB prices and confirmed the proofs for $100. A mom actually bought those (which were 5x7) the week before my appt. I regularly visit a mom message board for BC for information on products, stores... etc. in my area. I asked about CB and specifically South Delta and Brett. That's how I originally got here. On a side note, the night of the first appt. was the NHL awards in Vancouver. My husband and I joked that the sales guy was there instead.

The night Brett came he was mostly pleasant. That is about all that was redeeming. The pitch started with him pulling out the CB price list and saying "I'm not going to bother showing you this, the prices get really high", and he told me the lower priced packages and what came in them. He spoke quickly. We listened but I was there for the $100 proof deal (we had 16 in front of us). The packages were $250 to $400ish. I mentioned my coupon. With a big groan, Brett said "are they still giving those out????", and told me about how photographers shouldn't be giving them out, they are several years old, and CB was losing money on them because they were forced to redeem them because of various reasons. Ah... I had a deal! Nope, he wouldn't honour it, though he just told me they were. Plus the coupon wasn't old. The card was pristine white, not a fold or crease, and those online books was for a site recently set up. And my photographer said they started them not long ago: "Good timing for you...". Back to his packages and overwhelming samples.

After the pitch I told him what we wanted and he said the proofs started at $100 and you only got 3 or 4. To get all I could "just get a package anyway". So he went into the packages again... though this time there was less in the packages and the prices were higher. We tried to clarify and he appeared surprised we had listened so closely. I asked to see the price sheet a couple times and there were several excuses to not show it. Everything was going quickly because he had his daughter's soccer game to go to. We believed it to be a ploy to rush us into a sale because the appointment time was for 8:45pm, a little late for a game to begin especially for a kid under 10.

I mentioned that I spoke with other moms and visited my BC mom board. Brett said that he couldn't confirm the prices that other reps gave. I said that I was told HE gave that price. He said it must have been when the proofs were 2x3 (or 3x4?). I told him it was last week. Then the pompous ass asked me to specifically name the customer. I did. He said she must have been mistaken or I misheard the number of proofs and he feebly looked through his bag for a copy of the bill. Trying to save face he asked for me to show him the bill and her proofs. Her not being there, I could not. Getting nowhere I mentioned the 25 posts on my mom board mentioning the prices of proofs. Brett repeated a few times that he doesn't know what other reps do. I said that other moms mentioned the other guy and his prices. $100 consistent I asked for that. Brett said that his price was... I don't know, something crazy. I asked why the prices were not standard. No answer. I said I could call my friends or print out the posts of customers in the last few weeks who got that deal. Brett became very defensive and got downright rude when I had the backing of actual people. Then the icing on the cake (read carefully Brett), he went on a rant about websites who post about CB and blogs are the worst and very misinformed. Under his breath he asked himself "why would I post there myself?" Hmmmm... I bet he does. He described this one with far too much detail that it was uncanny. Too funny!

I was given proof prices which changed. It seems like nothing is standard with CB, or at least there are standard prices but the sales guys must earn more if they jack up the price beyond. I was told I could get 4 proofs for "x" amount and then 1 free, but then somehow it went to 7 for 6, but then the price was for 5.... It was all over the place. I was adamant that the $250 he offered was not going to happen and I was happy walking away with my 1 free picture. The "he's not this age forever" came up. I literally laughed at him. I have 9 5x7 proofs for $149.

And to top off my little story, if you've read this long. While Brett was filling out the order slip we were making conversation about the soccer game and so I prodded about sports and casually mentioned how cool it was that the NHL awards night was here. Brett said "oh yeah it was so awesome! my friend had tickets-" and he cut himself off. Then nonchalantly changed the subject and trailed off. Caught ya DINGUS!

Hi
i used to work for CB many years ago as a photographer and a salesman. It doesnt surprise me at all the stories I have read here. When I went to peoples homes I always tried to be as curteous as possible with the parents and as gentle as possible with the babies. As a professional photographer both before and after my time with CB , I can honestly say I would never recomend them to other people.
The reason I left the company was because I had a sales manager come on a few sales with me to "evaluate" my sales techniques. While in the home of a parent of the most adorable little boy we set up our sales area at the dining room table. Mom was VERY excited to see the portraits. Then the incident happened, half way through his sales spiel, the little boy boy started spitting up....and we are not talking a little bit...he was vomitting everywhere, and here is this poor mother using the tablecloth to catch it all. I turned to this sales rep and said we should go and rebook the appointment. He said no lets go on...after 5 minutes of this I got up apoligized to my customer and walked out never to work for them again. I called her later to express my disgust for the situation and she was thankfrul for that. She told me she had to KICK him out 20 mins after I left. I went back to her home privately and we took some real nice portraits and thankfully she was happy with me.

The thing everyone should know about CB, SEARS and WAL MART is these companies will hire ANYONE and "train" them to do portraits. Anyone reading this could work for them after their 2 week training program. SO just keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Do not settle. GO out and find a reputable photographer, and if you have to pay a little more, you will be thankful later.

I am now going through a problem with Canadian Baby. I had my daughter and of course they called and said the hospital had given them a coupon for a free 8X10 portrait. I allowed them to come to my home and take the pictures even though my daughter was unhappy about it. A few days later CB called and said the prints were ready and that a sales rep would be in the area that Saturday. The rep was supposed to be here at 10am and instead he strolled in here at 1pm just as I was getting ready to go out with no apology I might add.

This Rep came in and put 10 photos of my daughter on the table and with out missing a beat he immediately asked what package I wanted to purchase? I told him to give me a minute to look at them. I told him that I was not the one that was going to buy the pictures that infact my grandmother was going to but could not be here. I asked the man to leave the photos with me and we would make a decision by Tuesday when I see her. The man replied by saying “I am not going to leave these pictures with you so that you can SCAM me out of money. I have 2 kids in university that I have to pay for” I replied saying I am not in the business of scamming you and I recent the implication that you are implying. He then said I have to pay for the proofs in order for him to leave them I asked how much he told me 1-9-9 I said a dollar ninety nine each he said no ONE HUNDRED AND NINTYNINE DOLLARS I laughed I am not paying $199.00 for 10 4x6 proofs. He told me that I will never find any pictures done better. I informed him that I had just gotten photos done at the local Lawblaws and I said that they were great he asked to see them so I showed this man the picture he told me the color was awful and that my daughter look like crap! You can imagine how mad I was getting at this point. He was lucky I was holding my BEAUTIFUL daughter in my hands I told him that my father is a photographer. He then started to disrespect me and my father in MY home, telling me that my dad could only take pictures of fruit! The nerve of this man! Me with my temper was not impressed and my poor husband who is non-confrontational could see that. I began to pace back and forth to calm myself the next thing I hears is “So you don’t want the pictures” and the man gathered them together like he was going to crumple them up. My husband said just wait and let us look at them. To make a long story shorter, the man agreed to leave the pictures with no deposit but not with out telling me that if he found out that I didn’t order a package from him he would be “PISSED”

On Monday I called CB and asked that he not call me or come to my home again and if they wanted the proofs back they could send someone other then him to get them. Not caring about my complaint they told me it was my responsibility to return them….Right like that will happen!

So now Tuesday rolls around. This ass of a man called my home SIX times in a matter of 4 hours then proceeded to leave a nasty message on my answering machine. To make matters ever worse he then somehow got my grandmother’s phone number and called her to find out where I was and if she was going to buy pictures….he called her twice!

I called CB back and spoke to the same lady (who was no help) and told her the story again and also told her that if he called here or any other person in my family again the police would be contacted. She said she would call me back and well…….I am still waiting!

Amanda.

Where are yo from? What is the sales persons name?
We want to make sure no one goes through that again.

My more update about CBP.....

I can't believe after I filed BBB complaints, etc... and the other day (I think last week), I got a sales call from CBP asking me if I just had a baby, and what the gender of baby, would I like a free pic....etc.... OMG.....
I am totally shocked that they still give out my number for their sales to call for free session......

To all who have posted and all who are doing research about Canadian Baby Photographers.

We are a group of past customers who have all been screwed by CB sales tactics. We intend to reveal all the CB tricks and help any future and potential victims of this SCAM company. Please stay tuned to this blog. We will provide information soon.

Please feel free to email us directly with any questions. WE WILL HELP!!

My wife and I just forked over some money for a bunch of wallet sizes last night. Talk about high pressure - CBP has mastered the foot in the door technique. The photographer was good, but the salesman was somewhat slimy.

While a few of the photos (ie not the "tacky" ones) were somewhat better than the many snapshots we already have, I doubt the results from Sears or Wal-Mart would be noticeably different and for much less cost. That being said, atleast we will now have some nice wallet sized photos to give to relatives. No big regrets, but will avoid for the next baby. The "free gift" isn't worth the pain of sitting through their spiel.

Hello All...

After some doing we finally managed to get all the CB pricing. We will post it soon.

You won't believe it....

Stay tuned

I ALSO had a HORRIBLE experience with this "company".... they called me one day out of the blue saying that a "FRIEND" had given me this as a gift..WHICH AS U CAN SEE FROM ABOVE POSTS IS WHAT THEY TOLD OTHER PEOPLE... the photographer came over, he was nice I guess, then he left, and I NEVER GOT A PHONE CALL!! I wrote two emails stating how displeased I was, kept getting automated "we will be responding as soon as possible" messages..THEN I phone them leaving messages about how mad I was and how horrible the service was.. And I told them I wanted my childs pictures DELETED and I wouldnt buy from them... got a message saying they would like to talk to me and show me pictures??? OOOKKK.... ignored that..... then like 6 MONTHS LATER I get a phone call from someone I can't understand who leaves a message saying they have my photos to be viewed???????? NOW WHAT SHOULD I DO???? I specifically asked for them to be deleted!!!!!?????

Dear Alisha.

Our clients have gone through the same process. Canadian Baby keeps photos on file for at least 5 years. What we recommend is to allow the sales person to come to your home. Make sure you make an appointment when someone will be with you. They owe you a free gift, either an 8X10 or a calendar of your baby. Be strong. Once you receive the free photo tell the sales person you're not interested at this time. He may get a bit irrate but don't worry just ask him to leave

By doing this you've denied Canadian Baby a HUGE profit and sent the salesperson home without his usual 35% commission.

This is the only way to put this company OUT OF BUSINESS ONCE AND FOR ALL.

Good Luck.

I just had Canadian Baby over a couple days a go, the lady was very nice. I had to feed my baby before the shots where done, and she waited patiently, and set up. When they called, they let me know that they had gotten my name from the hosptial, and were photographers, what I needed to have for my babies' photo's, they even gave me the website address so I could check them out. they asked how much she weighted, and if she could hold her head up. The photographer was wonderful, when my baby started to get fussy we took a break and calmed her down before starting again. My sister has used them for all here kids, so I have an idea of the cost. They are a bit more pricey, but all pictures are.

To Whom it May Concern:

It was a coincidence today that I had dropped over to my daughter's appartment when one of your portrait consultants was there showing her the pictures of her son. I had no idea that Elizabeth had someone come over about a week or so to have pictures taken of Matthew. First of all she indicated to me that the photographer was very rude that day. Randy Vigna who was over tonight was just as rude. I am the grandmother and am interested in purchasing a package but now I have to think twice about it. He was very pushy and did not give the parents time to think about which package they would be interested in buying. Instead he packed up very quickly, made her sign that she received the free gift (picture of Matthew on a small calendar) and rushed to the front door. You could tell that he was not happy. Before he left I could hear him telling her quietly that if she does not call back by Thursday of this week, the pictures will be recycled. Is this true?????? Your staff need to take a course in customer service.

If you are interested in still making a sale, I might consider purchasing a package. What can you do for me? Hoping to hear from you soon.

Kind regards,
Irene Derlago

I came across this site today because I was looking up Canadian Baby Photographers for my brother as they have a new addition to their family. I had CB in my home 16, 15, 11, & 2 years ago and all 4 of my experiences were great. I was obviously aware of the price by child # 2,3 &4. I treasure them dearly. I have also have pictures taken at Walmart on a yearly basis after that and they are not comparible as they are generally face portaits and if you don't accept the first pose they get quite rude (not all of them). We have also gone into studios with our kids for family portraits they have also been a special experience and yes you also feel it in your wallet. Reading through the posts many feel since our pics were taken years ago the post is therefore false is crazy. When you stumble across a blog I think both experiences should be shared to make a customer aware of both sides.

Angelique

I had the sales man here today, he didn't pressure me, and gave me plenty of time to decide on if/which package I wanted. I did decided on the baby package, it came to $450. I got 16 5X7's, 2 8X10's a monatge, and 12 wallets. he even said that only 3 times will someone pay this when you have a baby, graduation, and a wedding. i know my parents spent a ton when i graduated. so overall i had a great expreance, and will use them again when i have my next baby

I ordered photos and just recently got them delivered. I was not impressed
with your c.d and found it was a waste of money. I thought it had been
copywrited to me and found out shortly after i could do nothing with the c.d
to send theses pics around to people by email. I also was not satisfied with
the fact that i got my pictures back and didn t even receive a book to put a
copy of all the pics in which i was told when i ordered them that i would
get it. I dont want the c.d it is no good how it was made. I dont know what
you can do to help with this problem but hopefully something. I paid a lot
of money for nice pictures and want the best. thanks.

Sincerely,
Suzzane

My name is Jordanna , I just had photos taken on June 18, only 5 shots out of 12 were taken.Yes the baby was starting to get a little fussy, but the photographer just said " oh she's getting fussy, they don't normally stop once they start." then he packed up and left. From what Doug Atkinson said I have to but a minimum of 3 photos, I only liked 1 out of 5 shots, why should I have to but a pack of 3 at $85.00 just to get the one I liked, $85.00 for the one shot is rather expensive, and I don't agree with that. under the circumstances I should be a loud to get one shot I want at a special price. The only one I liked was her sitting with the butterfly wings.
The other problem I have is that when I was called to set up the appointment I was told that I would be able to "pick my one free photo" now I'm told that the only one I get is the calendar one, and as I told Doug, I don't like that pose. I don't want to loose that one shot of her and the butterfly wings, but I also don't want to pay $85.00 for the one shot.

Very unimpressed,

We 'hired' a Canadian Baby Photographer 10 months ago. The 'free' photo session is very intense. The photography sets up a studio in your home very quickly and is very good at getting a baby to do some very strange poses. A stranger handling your newborn can be a little traumatic so we thought doing it at home would be best. In retrospect the convenience is a little oversold and the talent of the photographer is good but not worth the money of the packages unless you really want your baby doing the odd poses. In any case, not knowing the prices was the biggest problem for us. The visit from the salesman was the ultimate in high pressure sales. We're expecting another baby in a few months. I'm not hiring Canadian Baby Photographers again. I'm taking my own 'natural' photos - just bought some studio lights - same price as a 'package' from Canadian Baby Photographers. Now I can take photos whenever convenient and as often as I want. If you have a decent digital SLR camera the extra investment in studio lights is an alternative. It will likely be more enjoyable for the family and with practice you'll likely get good photos for less.

my free gift was a "wonderful" shot of my daughters just finished crying face tacked onto a calendar card! and yes,they are rude,somewhat"liars",and have that set in stone speech burned into the forepart of their brain i'm sure! how do they sleep? i know! they have wonderful dreams of the "special" photo paper they use which will never fade and of the wonderful photography equipment they use!(which according to them is way better than other professionals' equipment...uh huh)
but i too stooped into my deepest pocket s to pay the $240 for the 13 "stamps: i got(my only daughter,last after 3 boys!),why not a montage? because i just spent this months grocery money! LOL!!!Not to mention my photos were'nt even sent out until i called when they were 2 weeks overdue!!Wonderful!!

To all who visit this site to get information about Canadian Baby Photographers please note that within the next 6-8 months Canada will have a DO NOT CALL database.

It's important that we spread the word. If you know someone who is having a baby in Canada please tell them about this list. We will be posting updates on the list's progression and links to the site where you can put your name and number on the list.

All businesses like Canadian Baby Photographers will have to abide by this list and if they call you and your name is in the list they will be fined. Please spread the word that this list is comming.

We have contacts who are working within the system to make sure the list is implemented and we also have people who are dedicated to ensuring Canadian Baby Photographers is closely monitored. We'll put these people and others like them out of business within a short period of time if all goes as planned.

whoaaaaaaaa....this was great reading!
I just got the "call" this morning and agreed to actually put myself thru the ordeal of having them come over tomorrow morning to take the shots of my 2 month old, just to get my free gift and nothing more (even after hearing from other ppl that I should NOT when my son was born 8 yrs ago) After reading all this today, I just felt it wasn't fair to my daughter to put HER thru the ordeal and called to cancel my appt (of course having to leave a message as it seems no one ever answers) Honestly just thought of not answering the door when they arrive tomorrow just for fun too.
I took my son to Wal-Mart every 3 months for his first year and am still pleased with the pics (and the pricing!) Thinking that is what I am going to be doing again, I am sure I can find some "oh-so-cute" props on my own to take in.

While I am sure some of the photographers are decent human beings, I dread having one of the lesser forms into MY home touching MY child...

And forgot to add, a company that will not post their pricing on-line has something to hide as far as I am concerned (they know they are over priced but get ya by the heart strings, just where they want you)

and heaven forbid my child's pics are used against my authorization...

NO DEAL!

Don't forget that there are alternatives to these guys:

http://www.kristajefferson.com
http://www.michellebjork.com
http://www.zadore.com
http://www.afittingimage.com

...and many others

YOU CAN'T BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU READ ON THE INTERNET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wow, I can't believe so many people had such a bad experience with these guy! I had my baby in November 2007, and within a month CBP had called me to set up the photo shoot. I told them that things were kind of hectic at home, with it being my first baby and asked them if I could call them back to schedule it some other time. They never harassed me, I actually never got a call again, and then I called them when Ayla was just over 3 monthes.

We set up the appointment and it just so happened that I got into a car accident the day of the appointment, and of course the photo shoot was the last thing on my mind and I completely forgot about it until I finally got home that night to find a message on the answering machine. The guy showed up and waited for quite awhile before leaving. I called them to explain and they were great about it, they asked me if everything was okay, and they said If I didnt want to reschedule they would understand. The accident wasn't serious so I told them I wanted to reschedule.

Finally they came out and immediately I fell in love with the photographer, he was very personable, and spent time holding Ayla to make her feel comfortable with him before he even set up his equipment. He had her smiling and laughing the whole time!! He was this hilarious guy, cracking cute jokes the entire time and talking with me and my husband and telling us how beautiful our baby was and how strong she seemed for her age. So he took his pictures and even after he was done he spent time holding the baby, saying how he was so sorry he had to go but he had other appointments. He shook our hands and left.

Within ten days we set up an appointment to see the pics, and the guy that came out to show us the packages was equally as personable. He made us feel very comfortable, telling us that he knew the packages were a little expensive and that there was no pressure to buy anything if we felt uncomfortable with it. The pictures were BEAUTIFUL, and so to cut the cost my husband and I asked out parents if they would like to go in on a package with us, which they did. And the salesman, AFTER we already made our order and paid, kept adding things free of charge to our package. He said that since we had so many different people paying for one package this way we could ALL have a bigger selection. We ended up with 4 extra 8x10's, 12 extra wallets and an entire extra set of the original 5 x7', ON TOP OF what we bought in our package.

It really sucks that other people had a crappy experience, but I think that the other side arent really represented here. Obviously there are always dickheads in every proffession, why should photography be so different. And you can't honestly tell me you've never encountered a pushy salesman in any other arena. So I wouldnt judge the company itself. Whats the harm in letting them do the photoshoot, and then if your not happy with the service, ask them not to even come back for the veiwing, or if you do the viewing and dont like the pictures, dont buy them, its that simple. All I know, is in the end, I paid minimally for the pictures that I recieved, and they are heads above any wal-mart or sears photos I have EVER seen. Obviously I believe the people who say they had a bad experience and I'm really sad they had to go through that, especially during the exhausting and stressful time after having had a new baby. I know if the guy had treated my baby even half as bad as some of you had to deal with I would have kicked his butt all the way to the door and then out it lol.

And no, I dont work for Canadian baby, I just love them . lol