The big day is nearly here and I’m so excited to capture these precious early moments in your baby’s life. It is amazing how quickly they develop and change, so these portraits – and all the little details – will be looked back on for years to come because they’ll never be this small again! Here’s a quick guide to follow to help us get the best images possible.
What to pack in your bag:
-Nappies
-Changing mat
-Wipes
-Dummy (if using)
-Muslin
-Any outfits you want to be used in the shoot
-Any heirloom items you want incorporated into the shoot
-Snacks/refreshments – the shoot may take up to 3 hours so please be prepared
-If siblings are coming, bring entertainment and snacks for them
-Wear neutral colours – creams, mild tones, and soft hues make for beautiful intimate portraits
-Bring one change of clothing, just in case any accidents happen
-The studio will be heated intensely to keep your little one warm, so wear layers that you can remove some if you get too warm
-It’s best to avoid chunky jewellery and watches, which can be distracting in photos. Apple Watch, I’m looking at you! Let’s achieve timeless photos that will be staples in your home for decades to come
Sleep
If your baby has been asleep for a long time prior to the shoot, it may be difficult to get ‘sleepy’ shots or use specific props. If you can, on the day of your session, try to keep your baby awake before you leave home by giving them a bath, interacting with them, and feeding just before you leave your home or on arrival at the studio (so we can get started as soon as you arrive). Obviously, these things are always easier said than done! But this little bit of prep really can lead to peaceful-looking portraits rather than those where baby looks enraged or red-faced from crying.
Feeding
Your baby may feed more during our time together.
Due to the nature of newborn photography and the warm studio environment they may feed more because we may be positioning them and wrapping them.
We will try to minimise disturbances to their sleep.
An extra feed often helps baby settle and allow us to get the best photos possible.
We will take breaks as and when baby needs feeding and changing – it is a baby-led experience.
Siblings
Newborn sessions generally take up to 3 hours, so please plan for that. If siblings are going to be in the photos, we’ll usually get those photos first.
Please avoid bringing anyone else apart from yourself, your partner and children to the shoot because lots of people in the studio make for somewhat challenging creative conditions.
How you’re feeling
If you are feeling even the slightest bit anxious about the photoshoot, talk to me, tell me and I will see what I can do to help. Babies can sense anxiety and may act differently in my presence.
Baby-led session
The photoshoot will be focused on your baby and keeping them content. I’ll only do what it lets me do – I won’t force it to sleep or pose it in any way that will make it uncomfortable.
The studio
I welcome a lot of children into my studio so to maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards please kindly remove your shoes as you enter the studio.
Photography by Kavi 