Your Questions Answered
IN ANTICIPATION OF YOUR STUDIO SESSION MY CLIENTS OFTEN HAVE A NUMBER OF QUESTIONS. I AM ALWAYS HAPPY TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE. TO HELP YOU OUT, BELOW I HAVE SUMMARISED THE MOST POPULAR QUESTIONS PARENTS USUALLY ASK.
What is a newborn session?
A newborn photo session is a gentle, calm, slow session where I persuade your sleeping baby to curl up into gorgeous poses to create adorable images. I will start by getting baby sleepy and happy, maybe wrap her snuggly, then use gorgeous outfits and maybe some containers too. I will get to know your baby, what she likes to do, what she doesn’t, and will ensure she is happy throughout.
When do newborn sessions happen?
Newborns change very fast, and so its best to capture those magical early days as soon as possible. Within the first 2 weeks is best because much after that babies wake more easily, and become less curly.
When should I book in?
Its best to book as soon as you can after your first scan. This ensures your slot when baby arrives. If you left it until baby arrives we may not have space to fit you in during busy times. We use your due date to book you in, and if we need to reschedule depending on whether baby arrives early or late then that's fine. I ask you to contact me when baby is born and we then confirm your session date and time.
My baby is already born, is it too late to have a session?
That depends on how old baby is when you contact us, and if we have any available last minute slots. We will always try to fit you in, so do get in touch
Why can it take up to 2 hours?
Unlike a more traditional studio photo session that might take an hour, we do things very differently. Baby runs the show, and everything is done at her pace. We take time to settle, feed, change, cuddle and soothe. Then when I start the posing its all done slowly and gently and I don’t clock watch, and I won’t rush baby.
Will you be handling my baby?
Yes, throughout the session I will handle your baby. I’ll settle her, pose her and create the images you hope for. If she needs you then of course I’ll hand her back, but its best we get to know each other for me to achieve the poses I am known for. All you need to do is sit back and relax.
Is it safe?
Your baby’s safety and comfort is my top priority. I take great care to watch her temperature, circulation and comfort are never compromised.
My baby has very flaky skin. Is this a problem?
Absolutely not. Almost all newborns have flaky skin to some extent, and I am skilled in reducing how much is visible in the images if you’d like me to. However, I find that as its a uniquely new baby feature that's completely normal, its nice to leave some to show how new your baby was when the images were taken.
What if my baby cries or doesn’t settle?
Many parents worry ahead of their session that their baby will cry and I won’t be able to get the images they hope for. Rest assured that the session is very calm and relaxed, and that includes the baby. All newborns cry sometimes, and if your baby does we will take our time and make sure he is happy again with feeding or winding, just as you would at home. Babies I am posing sometimes squeak a little when moved while asleep, but you don’t need to worry about him screaming and preventing the session from running smoothly.
Will you use a dummy?
All newborns are different, and some react to being moved while asleep more than others. Sometimes I do find that giving baby a dummy can really help with calming and settling a baby who likes to suck for comfort. The dummies I use are Neonatal surgical silicone ones used in hospitals, so are completely safe and clean. I won’t ever use one without asking you, but if I feel it might be just what baby needs, I will let you know. If your baby hasn’t ever had a dummy rest assured that me using one for a couple of minutes throughout the session will not cause any nipple or feeding confusion. However, he is your baby, so if you’d rather I didn’t use one then that's fine too.
What if my baby makes a mess on your things?
I’ll be photographing your baby without a nappy at times, so I am never surprised when baby messes. This is totally normal and is not a problem. All blankets, outfits and wraps etc are washed after each session.
Can we have photos with our baby?
Absolutely. We usually do these images towards the end of the session.
Can siblings be included in the session?
Of course. Sibling images are something you won't want to miss out on. When siblings are coming along to the session what I often ask is for siblings to come at the start of the session with parents and baby. We will aim to then capture the sibling images first. Then you have the option for one of you to take the siblings home, or you may want to ask a family member or friend to take them home, whilst parents and baby stay with me for the rest of the session. Whilst we aim to complete each newborn session within 2 hours, the sessions can sometimes last 3 hours, and often older siblings can understandably become bored waiting around. If you wish for siblings to stay for the duration of the session then that's absolutely fine. You may wish to bring some toys, snacks or ipads etc to keep them entertained.
How do we prepare for the session?
When you book you’ll receive information via email on how to prepare to ensure the session runs smoothly. You can also find Session Preparation information on my website.
Why do newborn sessions only happen in the morning?
Generally speaking new babies are awake a lot in the night and sleep well in the morning. This helps me a lot, as it often helps if baby is asleep for me to achieve the best images.
I’ve had a Cesarean section, will I be comfortable in the studio?
Yes. I have mums in within days of having had a section, and they are always lovely and comfortable. The studio is cosy and has a comfy sofa for you to relax on. I will provide tea, coffee, soft drinks and biscuits.
Can we bring our own outfits or props?
I have developed my own style, and a huge part of that is the outfits and props I use in the session. I prefer to only use my props, and hope that as you booked me for my style, that you’ll be more than happy with that. However, if you have a special item of sentimental value you’d like me to include in a few images, please do bring it along. I’ll do my best to include it for you.
How many images will I get?
How many I take depends on your baby on the day, but usually when you come back for your viewing/ordering appointment I will show you between 20 and 30 hand edited images for you to then purchase from.
How long does it take before we can see the photos?
Following your session you will be invited back to view your images in the studio and decide on what products you wish to order. Usually we ask you back within 2 weeks. However, during busy times this may be a little longer. I will advise you if this is the case.
How long will our order take?
Once you’ve placed your order it will take time to process. Depending on what products you order, delivery times vary due to the difference in supplier times. I quote up to four weeks on average.
Will you post our order?
I ask clients to collect their order from the studio by appointment.
