Preparing for your studio newborn session is simple, and a little planning beforehand can help create a relaxed experience for both you and your baby. Remember, every session is baby led, so there is never any pressure if things don't go exactly to plan. Newborns need feeding, cuddles and comfort, and we simply work around their needs.


Before You Leave Home


If possible, try to keep your baby awake for an hour or so before your session. This might be during a bath, a nappy change or some gentle interaction. A baby who has had a little awake time beforehand is often more settled once they're fed.


Feed your baby just before leaving home if you live nearby, or you're welcome to feed your baby as soon as you arrive at the studio. A full tummy usually helps babies feel sleepy and content.

Dress your baby in a loose fitting zip up onesie to make changing easier without disturbing them.


What to Bring


  • Extra nappies
  • Wipes
  • Bottles or expressed milk if bottle feeding
  • Formula if required
  • A dummy if your baby uses one
  • Any sentimental items you'd like included in your photographs


Everything else is provided in the studio, including wraps, blankets, outfits, bonnets, headbands and carefully selected props.


What to Wear


Soft neutral colours and earthy tones create timeless photographs and keep the focus on your family's connection.


Colours that photograph beautifully include:


  • White
  • Cream
  • Beige
  • Soft brown
  • Olive
  • Sage
  • Dusty blue
  • Rust
  • Muted pinks


Try to avoid bright colours, large logos and busy patterns, as these can draw attention away from your faces.


The Studio Environment


The studio is kept warm to ensure your baby stays comfortable, especially during wrapped and posed images. Because of this, you may find it quite warm yourself, so wearing light layers is recommended. There is seating for parents to relax while I gently guide the session.


If Your Baby Needs Extra Time


Please don't worry if your baby cries, wants to feed again or simply needs extra cuddles. This is completely normal. Studio newborn sessions are never rushed. We allow plenty of time for feeding, settling and comforting your baby, following their lead throughout the entire session.


Siblings


If brothers or sisters are joining the session, talking positively about the experience beforehand can help them feel excited. Bringing a small snack and a quiet activity can also be helpful once their photographs are finished. I cannot guarantee sibling participation, particularly with

children aged 1–3 years and I never force children into photographs, as this can

quickly lead to tears and make the remainder of the session more challenging. We simply capture whatever they are comfortable giving us on the day.


As newborn sessions can be quite long, I highly recommend arranging childcare

after family photographs have been completed. This helps create a calmer

environment for your newborn and allows the session to flow more smoothly.

Family photos are usually completed within the first 20–30 minutes, after which

siblings may be collected by a family member, or one parent may choose to take

them on a nearby outing before returning at the end of the session.


Children are also welcome to relax with you in the studio lounge area, and there is

also a lovely park nearby if they need to burn off some energy. This will ensure a safe, calm and enjoyable experience for everyone.


Relax and Enjoy the Experience

These first few weeks pass incredibly quickly, and your session is designed to be an enjoyable experience as well as a chance to preserve these precious memories. With over 13 years of experience photographing newborns, your baby's safety, comfort and wellbeing are always my highest priorities. My goal is for you to leave feeling relaxed, knowing you've captured this beautiful stage of your family's story.