So over the last few months I have been surprised by how many people finish their newborn photo session and say they had no idea how much they’d enjoy it. It made me realise that perhaps people don’t know what to expect, so here is a little over view of what goes on.
First of all, once you are here we go straight into the studio (which is in my garden) where the session takes place. I will offer you a drink and get you relaxed. If you have older children, they will be given a tour of the things they have access to in the garden and I will help them to feel at ease. If they are happy you will be happy and the session will go smoothly, so this is always a priority for me, to make sure they feel at home and safe.
We then get the baby undressed and change nappy, if they need a top up this is where they will have one. You are welcome to feed in private if you wish.
The room is kept nice and warm as the baby is likely to be undressed or wearing less clothes than usual. Keeping them warm ensures that they are happy and not upset. I also have white noise playing, I use womb sounds that sooth the baby and mean that I can move them without it bothering them.
If you have an older sibling I will call them into various shots as we go. I find this works better than putting lots of pressure on a the beginning or the end of the session being all about them. They can come in and out of the shot freely and kiss their new baby brother or sister or hold them if they are old enough.
If your baby needs to stop for feeding / changing then we stop and take our time. The session is totally led by them.
At the end of the session you are encouraged to get in photos with your children if you want to. I take close ups of you cuddling them and some candid shots of you all together. This is a lovely time as I don’t need to direct or pose you too much – it’s all about those natural moments.
The session usually takes around 2 hours from start to finish but sometimes it will take more which is fine.
Once we are finished, your baby usually wants another feed, so you are welcome to stay and make sure they will be happy for the journey home.
After your session I know you are dying to see a photo from the day, so I usually post one on my social media platforms for you to see / share / tag yourselves. Then within the next two weeks I will send you a link to your gallery where you can choose your favourites.