What to prepare for your session

Here are a few things that can help keep baby settled during their session. Please don't worry if you are not able to do them. Once you arrive at the studio I will do my best to soothe baby.

Session length

Newborn sessions can take around 4 hours, because babies run the show around here! Some snooze the whole way through, while others decide this is the day they want to party. Either way, we go at their

pace, allowing plenty of time for feeds, cuddles, and getting them settled.

Ideal timing

Those beautifully curled-up, sleepy newborn photos are best done within the first 14 days. I always recommend booking before baby hits the 3-week mark, but don’t worry if we go past that, every baby is different, and we’ll still capture their squishy cuteness at any age.

Bring the essentials

Nappies, Extra bottles, Dummy (if using), snacks or lunch, any special items we've discussed incorporating in to your session. You are also welcome to bring your breast pump.

Comfy clothes

FEEL FREE TO GET COMFY!

We usually do family pictures first so if you want to change into pyjamas or loungewear after, go for it!

If bringing snacks turns into ordering a cheeky takeaway, absolutely fine. If you want to catch up on your favourite show while I work my magic with baby, you’re more than welcome. This time is for you to relax, recharge, and just soak in the moment. No pressure, no posing unless you feel up to it.

Snacks

You are welcome to order food in, bring snacks and eat at the studio. I also provide drinks.

Feeding

If possible please fully feed baby 30 minutes before the session. Bringing a bottle (if bottle feeding) and dummy on the session day can also help keeping baby comfy. You are also very welcome to breastfeed here in the studio!

What to wear

Keep it simple and neutral. Soft, muted tones photograph beautifully, and avoiding bold patterns or bright colours helps keep the focus on baby. Most importantly, be comfortable! My priority is making sure you feel relaxed and happy during the session. Please note, the studio does get warm.

Family shots

Family and sibling photos are taken at the start of the session to get them out of the way, helping little ones relax afterward and giving parents a chance to do the same.

"I just want pictures of baby"

I totally get this - having had my own babies, I know how tough those first few weeks can be. But hear me out - I skipped newborn photos with myself in them, and it's one of my biggest regrets. Those photos aren't just for now - they're for your child to look back on and see how much they were loved from the start. That said, if you really don't want to be in them, no pressure.

Patience is key

Some babies settled instantly, while others take a little longer - both are totally normal! If your little one is fussy don't  stress. Babies pick up on your energy, so the calmer you are, the more settled they'll feel. Before 4 weeks old is often the peak age for trapped wind and colic, so it's not unusual for babies to be especially unsettled during the session. I'll always do my best help soothe and comfort them before gently trying again - your baby's comfort always comes first. Breastfed babies also tend to be a little more unsettled and may want to feed more frequently throughout the shoot, so be prepared for plenty of feeding breaks - we work entirely on babysitting schedule.

Posing

I will try to do all selected poses and props, but sessions are always 100% baby-led. If baby isn't feeling a particular pose, I'll try a few gentle soothing techniques - if that doesn't work, we move. on.

Soothing

I'll do most of the soothing myself to avoid overstimulation, but if baby. needs extra comfort, I'll pass them back to you for cuddles.

What should baby wear

I provide a selection of soft, timeless outfits to choose from. When you arrive all you need to do is strip baby down to their nappy, and I'll take care of the rest.

How do we see the images?

I know you'll be excited to see your photos, so I always aim to send a few sneak peaks within the first week. Your full gallery will be ready within 4 weeks. I use Pixieset to deliver your images, so once the session is complete, I'll send your private gallery link via email.

FINAL NOTE

Most importantly, relax and enjoy the process! This is your time - if that means curling up on the studio sofa with a cup of tea, catching up on tv, or even having a nap while I handle things, please do! I want this to be a beautiful, stress-free experience for you and your family. I can't wait to meet you and your little one soon!