FAQ

A peaceful state of sleepiness is the ultimate goal of our newborn session, together with some contented awake shoots.  To ensure this I'm asking for a little bit help from you. None of which I have not already done with my very own babies and clients before you. A sleepy baby is critical to the success of your newborn session so please follow all of the helpful tips and instructions. This perfect sleep recipe has proven to be very effective in newborn photography around the world. 

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1.  Prep

1. If your baby has slept solidly for 3 hours prior to your session, we may spend a long time trying to get your baby to sleep and not get many posed shots or be able to use the props you've requested. If you can, in the morning of your session, try to keep your baby awake for 2-3 hours by giving them a bath, interacting with them, and feeding just before my arrival. Obviously, this may all go out of the window, as these things are always easier said than done! But this little bit of prep really can make a difference to your session, especially if the baby is nice and sleepy.

2. Dress baby in a simple loose sleeper that doesn't have to be lifted off over the head, just in case baby is sleeping soundly on my arrival. No tight socks or vests to avoid lines on their skin.

3. If you are using or considering using a dummy, feel free to use it. It can be a huge lifesaver when the baby continuously wants to feed/suckle for comfort. Sometimes it really is the difference between getting that shot or not!  A dummy can help to avoid contact with mummy while we are in the “rhythm” of a session. Baby can smell mum and hear her voice and this triggers their instinct to feed. It can be quite a distraction for a little newborn. Using a bottle or a dummy for a couple of minutes can help to maintain the fluidity of the session and helps the baby settle easier.  

4. Any eye gunk or boogers are to be removed where possible please

5. If you are breastfeeding, it may help not to eat spicy or acidic foods or drink caffeine in the 48 hours prior to your session as this could possibly make the baby unsettled.

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2. Bath Baby

The purpose of the bath is not just to clean your baby and ensure the fabulous soft fuzzy baby hair or make them smell amazing.  The real reason for the bath is to keep babies awake and tire them out. If your baby's umbilical cord is off, please give a full bath, otherwise, sponge bathe. The key is to linger during the bath, draw it out longer than you normally would. You want your baby awake so dilly dally and take your time as to tire them out.

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3. Feeding

I would be grateful if you could feed your baby a full feeding when I arrive.  So please try to schedule your baby’s day accordingly for this. A full tummy equals a sleepy baby! 

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4. Upon My Arrival

A full baby means a sleepy baby, and we need a very sleepy & calm baby in order to achieve the sweet, flexible poses you see in my portfolio.   If the baby is awake when I arrive, it is best to undress them first, loosen the nappy and then wrap them in a blanket before feeding. I may ask you to ignore a strict feeding schedule and a "no rocking or shhhhh" rule for the 3-4 hours at the session! The only way we will achieve calm, curly poses is if your baby is happy, full and sleeping deeply. 

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5. It’ll be hot hot hot

I will bring a portable heater and the room will be heated intensely to keep your little one warm, so dress in layers so that you can remove some if you get too warm.

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6. Soothing, feeding the baby

Please know that I do not mind waiting for you to nurse or for nappy changes, or just taking a break to soothe your baby at any point. You and your baby's wellbeing is more important to me than getting a shot. 

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7. Poop

When doing the poses where the baby is undressed, it is normal (and okay) for baby to poop or wee on my backdrop...or anywhere else. I can assure you this happens all the time, and I am not upset or offended. Please have on hand baby wipes, extra nappies, and a towel. After each newborn session, I launder all of my backdrops and other items the baby comes in to contact with. 

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8. Session and Siblings

Newborn sessions generally take 2-4 hours, so please plan for that.  If here are older siblings that will be included in photos, those images will be photographed at the start of the session. 

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9. Family Photos

If you wish to have a portrait with you, keep the clothing simple. Personally, I think plain tops with neutral colours work best, please don't wear bright and busy patterns or anything with large logos where possible. If you are keen on black and white photos, please avoid white tops if possible. 

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CHECKLIST OF ITEMS TO HAVE ON HAND

• Nappies and wipes

• Milk

• Parent and siblings outfits

• Dummy (optional but very helpful)

• A baby blanket

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HOW CAN I PREPARE MY CHILD FOR THE PHOTOSHOOT?

Just as with babies and toddlers, make sure your children are not hungry. If the shoot is going to overlap with a regular mealtime for them you might want to offer them a snack beforehand. It's a good idea to bring some snacks and drinks with you to the shoot too in case your little one gets hungry whilst you're there.

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WHERE DO SESSIONS USUALLY TAKE PLACE?

Sessions usually place outdoors in a location of your choice.  I am happy to suggest locations based on what you are trying to achieve in the photos.  For newborn sessions, I come to your home.