Studio Newborn Photoshoot- Q&A

When should I schedule my newborn session?

Most newborn sessions are scheduled some time into the second trimester. It is always best to book in advance as availability may be limited.

We like pencil you in on your due date as a marker and move this as needed for when baby arrives.

How soon after baby arrives will the session take place?

It is recommended that we photograph baby within the first 14 days of birth. This is the best timeframe for those sweet sleepy poses, when baby is still curled up and easily transferable. When baby reaches 3-4 weeks and beyond, they may be a little harder to wrap and tend to be more alert, however, we do get to see those big sparkling eyes. The most important thing is that you take the time needed to fully recover, making sure you and baby are happy and healthy- brand new or slightly older, we will still capture beautiful photos of your new bundle of joy!

I've seen this pose I really love, can you do that?

While I would love to recreate a certain pose you've seen, my sessions are completely baby led and your baby's safety and comfort are my top priority. Some baby's are happy to be positioned into more elaborate poses while others may fuss and feel unsettled. I do not force specific poses to happen, if baby isn't feeling it, then we simply move on. It is important to also understand some images you may have seen require more than one person and a lot of post production to create. My style is more simplistic, focusing on your baby and their tiny features in their earliest days.

What items do you have available for my session and do I need to buy anything?

I have some beautifully made outfits, hats and headbands in my mini-client wardrobe along with backdrops, wraps, fabrics, furs and props- all included in your package. If you have any family heirloom's or keepsakes you would like to incorporate then just let me know and we can find a way to fit these in.

All I suggest you bring along with you is a plain white baby grow, a little blanket or teddy for some home comfort, plenty of bottles if you are not breastfeeding and a dummy if possible as this will help soothe baby without the need to take them out of position. Quick tip- dress baby in an easy-access, button down grow- if they fall asleep while travelling to the studio they will be less disturbed when undressed and easily transferred.

How long does a typical newborn session last?

I only book one session in at a time for newborns so there is no rush! I would recommend leaving a good chunk of your day free when coming in for your newborn session. I say 2-3 hours to ensure we have plenty of time for feeds, changing or if baby needs soothing, but these sessions are baby led and time may run over. Bring along a magazine or headphones to catch up on Netflix, pop your feet up and take some time off while I work my magic! :)

Can my partner and I or my other children have photos with the baby?

YES! Absolutely, family portraits are included! If your other children are still quite young then we will start our session with family portraits first, after they have had their time to shine there will be colouring books and other activities to keep them occupied while I work with baby's solo portraits. You may want to feed them lunch in the studio or have one parent take them to the park around the corner as we finish the session with baby.

What should we wear?

Keep your colours neutral, you don't have to have matching outfits but one or two complimenting colours works well. Ultimately, wear what you are most comfortable in and be yourself.

Where will the session take place?

The studio is based in Buckden, St Neots, with clear parking on the drive for visitors. I ensure the studio is clean and ready for your arrival, making a cosy and safe environment for our session with lots of little activities for younger children to enjoy.