There can hardly be a more precious time of life than the arrival of a newborn child. Those first few days, weeks and months are so full of love and important, irreplaceable moments. Having professional photos taken during this time helps ensure these memories don’t fade.

Having someone come into your home to take photos can be a daunting prospect, though. You may feel that you don’t look your best, or worry that the baby will cry / sleep / need feeding at the ‘wrong’ moments. You may be worried about having to ‘perform’ for the camera.

My approach to newborn and baby photography is consistent with my approach to all family photography. I want your shoot to be an enjoyable experience, where you can relax and focus on what matters - each other. Your pictures should represent you and your baby just as you are.

So what are my key ingredients for a baby or newborn shoot?

1. Timing

When is the best time to have professional photos taken of your baby?

With newborns, it is a good idea to wait a couple of weeks. During weeks 2-4, babies are a little more alert and expressive.

For younger baby shoots, I recommend the 3-6 month window, when they are hopefully through peak colic period, and a bit stronger and able to lift their head. It’s a good time for shots of baby being held, lying down, enjoying tummy time and discovering their feet.

With slightly older babies, between 6-12 months, their little characters are starting to develop, and we’ll get more playful and expressive images. They are able to grasp toys, sit independently, crawl, clap and delight in a game of peek-a-boo.

In terms of the time of day, the ideal is post-nap and post-feed. I normally recommend mid morning, between 9.30 and 11am. Mornings tend to be calmer and when babies are a bit happier and more alert. Of course, it’s not possible to be precise, and so I always book for a 2 hour session, expecting to get about an hour of photography in that window.

2. Location

It is normally best to have your newborn or baby shoot at home. It’s where you are most comfortable, and you have everything you and baby need around you. I will use natural window light (never flash) for beautiful, creative portraits, and we will have natural props to hand, such as blankets, beds, teddies and toys.

For slightly older babies, especially when there is an older sibling in tow, we may want to go outdoors as well for a little explore and a greater variety of portraits and action shots. I recommend keeping it close to home and doing at least half the shoot inside.

3. Connection

This is where the magic happens.

What I won’t do is heavily stylised poses with your baby. There is nothing wrong with these. Indeed there are some amazing specialist baby and newborn photographers out there, and I’m often blown away by how artful and creative a genre this can be. It’s just not my kind of photography.

For me, it’s all about personality, connection and emotion. I’ll be looking for moments of tenderness and sheer joy, as you hold your baby in your arms. Eyes meeting, smiles and giggles, inquisitive siblings... the best pictures will be those that tell the story of your love for each other.

What next?

If you’d like me to capture some of your family’s magic, and are ready to book, just go ahead and reserve your slot in my online calendar. I’ll be in touch quickly to confirm details.

If you’d like to know more about my approach to family photography and what to expect, just click below to download my brochure. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.

Summer wait list

If you’re thinking of booking but aren’t quite ready yet, why not join my Summer Wait List. You’ll be the first to know when summer dates (1st June - 31st August) are released, get first dibs on sessions, as well as a discount and special bonus.