Yes. Your baby's safety and comfort is my top priority. I have had newborn photography training to ensure all poses are safe.

Photography by Vicki Luck

Newborn Baby Frequently Asked Questions

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, then wrap baby snuggly, and move through a variety of poses and props. I will get to know your baby, what baby likes to do, what baby doesn’t, and will ensure baby is happy throughout.

When do newborn sessions happen?

Newborns change very fast, and so it's 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?

It is best to book as soon as you can after your 12 week scan. This ensures your slot when baby arrives. If you left it until baby arrives I may not have space to fit you in during busy times. We use your due date to book you in, and schedule your session in when baby arrives, no matter if baby is early or late.

My baby is already born, is it too late to have a session?

That depends on how old baby is when you contact me, and if I have any available last minute slots. I will always try to fit you in, so do get in touch, but in general the sooner the better.

Why does it take so long?

Newborn sessions can take a little longer so I allow extra time. Baby runs the show, and everything is done at babies pace. This allows time to settle baby and feed, etc. Everything is done slowly and gently, and I won’t rush baby.

Will you be handling my baby?

Yes, throughout the session I will handle your baby. I’ll settle baby, pose and create the images you hope for. If baby needs you then of course I’ll hand baby back, but it's best we get to know each other for me to achieve the best poses.

Is it safe?

In short, yes. Your baby’s safety and comfort is my top priority. I take great care to ensure babies temperature, circulation, and comfort are never compromised. Newborn safety is of upmost importance to me. I have had newborn photography training to ensure all poses are safe, and as a mother of 2, I understand how precious your new baby is.

My baby has very flakey skin. Is this a problem?

Absolutely not. Almost all newborns have flakey 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 it's a uniquely new baby feature that's completely normal, it's nice to leave some to show how new your baby was when the images were taken.

What if I don’t like some poses?

I do a wide range of poses and set ups, and I understand that they may not appeal to everyone. Take a look at my previous work in my website Gallery and let me know what you do and don't like. I will always listen to your wishes, and if you’d rather I didn’t do something specific, just say so.

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. If for any reason I feel baby is unhappy with what I am doing, I will stop. No image is more important than babies comfort.

For best chance of success please read "How do we prepare for the session?".

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. I won’t ever use a dummy 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 breast feeding confusion; however the decision is completely yours.

What if my baby makes a mess on your things?

Parts of the session will require baby without a nappy and mess often happens. This is totally normal, and it really isn’t a problem.

Can we have photos with our baby?

Absolutely. Parents, sibling, and family photos welcomed within your session.

How do we prepare for the session?

For best results try to keep baby awake before the session, and feed in the studio on arrival. This will help the baby settle in the studio.

Bring along anything you need for feeding, a dummy (if you use one). I want you all to feel relaxed and at home in my studio.

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 baby needs to be asleep for me to achieve the best images. If we did your session in the afternoon your baby will have slept all morning and is more likely to wake and become unsettled through the session.

I’ve had a caesarean section, will I be comfortable in the studio?

Yes. I have a small sofa with cushions for you to relax and rest on. The studio will be cosy and warm for baby.

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 I will always do my best to get as many as possible for the session type booked.

How long does it take before we can see the photos?

Unless otherwise stated your photos will be edited and available for download within 2 weeks of the session.