Newborn photography captures the earliest moments of your baby’s life, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Preparing for a newborn photoshoot involves more than just picking cute outfits and props. Ensuring your little one is comfortable during the photo session is paramount for beautiful, peaceful images.

Here are my top ten tips for parents to plan for their newborn photoshoot, focusing on safety and comfort.

1. Choose the Right Time
The best time for newborn photography is within the first 5-14 days after birth. During this period, babies are typically sleepier and more malleable, making it easier to gently pose them in those adorable sleepy positions.

2. Plan Ahead
Prior to your photo session we will have a Design Consultation to work out your goals and style for your images, including any props or poses you have in mind. I will also use my experience of using props that both enhance the image and ensure your baby’s comfort and safety to help guide you through the planning process. This appointment is also a good opportunity to ask any questions, address any concerns or nervousness, and to get to know each other, so when you arrive for the photo session you are completely comfortable!

3. Feed Your Baby
A well-fed baby is a happy baby. To ensure they are content and sleepy for their photos, we try to plan your arrival at the studio in time for their mid-morning feed. I never book any other clients into the studio on the day of a newborn photo session so we can take all the time your baby needs and feed them whenever they want. This can make all the difference in how smoothly the session goes.

4. Dress for Convenience
Dress your baby in loose clothing to avoid any marks on their skin and to make it easy to undress them without waking them if they are asleep when they arrive at the studio. A simple onesie that zips or buttons up from the front is ideal.

5. Keep them Cosy and Warm
My studio is kept toasty and warm, ideally around 24-27°C, to keep your baby comfortable when undressed. Babies lose heat quickly, and a warm room helps them stay cosy and sleepy.  Of course, this means you’ll want to dress in layers – it can get very warm for adults in my studio!

6. Patience
Newborn photography takes time and should not be rushed. A photo session can last a few hours, allowing plenty of time for feeding, nappy changes, and cuddles to keep your baby comfortable.  I always work at your baby’s pace and follow their cues.

7. Clean and Safe
The safety of your baby is always my number one priority. I have specific training in handling and photographing newborns safely, including the use of digital composite imagery to remove supporting hands, etc. All props, blankets and outfits are thoroughly sanitised before use to protect your baby’s health.

8. White Noise
The womb is actually a naturally loud environment, and white noise can replicate this soothing ambiance. I often use a white noise app during the photo session to help keep your baby calm and asleep.

9. Relax...
Babies pick up on your mood, so relax... I don't book any other client appointments on the day of your newborn photoshoot, and recommend you don't plan anything else for the day either so you do not feel any time pressure. My studio is peaceful, warm and comfortable; so relax, enjoy the day, and if you fall asleep on the sofa that is just fine with me!

10. Trust Your Photographer
It is essential to feel confident in and comfortable with your photographer. If you choose me, you have the peace of mind that I’m very experienced in handling and photographing newborns. My expertise in newborn safety, comfort, and soothing techniques has earned me the nickname among many of my clients as the 'Baby Whisperer'.

Ensuring your baby’s comfort and safety is always our top priority. By following these tips, you can help create a calm environment that allows us to capture stunning and serene photographs of your newborn.

These early days are fleeting, and beautifully crafted images will help you remember how small and precious your child once was. Remember, a comfortable baby is a happy baby, and with a little preparation, your newborn’s photos will be as peaceful as they are beautiful.

Hello my lovely readers!
Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s close to my heart: the enchanting world of black and white photography. You might wonder, “Why black and white when the world is so full of colour?” Well, let’s explore the magic that this timeless style brings to capturing those precious moments in life.

The Timeless Appeal

Black and white photography has a timeless quality that’s simply unmatched. It takes us back to the golden era of photography, where each image was a cherished piece of art. When it comes to portraits, this classic style adds a layer of nostalgia, making each photo a keepsake that transcends generations.

Focus on Emotion

One of the most compelling reasons to opt for black and white is its ability to highlight emotions and the intricate details like tiny fingers and toes of a newborn.

Without the distraction of colours, the focus shifts to expressions: the tender touch of a mother-to-be and her unborn child; the loving look between life partners; the joy of family. These elements become the stars of the show, evoking a depth of emotion that’s hard to achieve otherwise.

The Beauty of Simplicity

Black and white photography thrives on simplicity. It doesn’t require elaborate props or colourful backdrops. The absence of colour brings out the textures and contrasts, making even the simplest settings look stunning.

Whether it’s the softness of a baby blanket, the texture of a lace dress, the porcelain skin of a young child, or the sheer innocence of a newborn’s face, black and white amplifies the beauty in every detail.

Versatility

Black and white photos fit seamlessly into any décor. Whether you have a modern minimalist home or a cosy, traditional setting, a black and white portrait in the correct choice of frame will always find its place. It’s versatile, elegant, and universally appealing.

A Different Perspective

Let’s face it; nobody looks perfect all the time! Sometimes, skin tones are uneven, or there might be temporary newborn acne or redness. Black and white photography is forgiving. It softens the imperfections and brings out the best features, making every photo frame-worthy.

Black and White Photography in a Modern World

Although in today’s digital world, any image can quickly be converted to black and white, some images work better than others.

Shooting for beautiful black and white photographs is an artform of balancing light and shadow to create high contrast images with rich deep tones and soft highlights, using uncluttered sets and simple texture and focussing on emotional connections.

A Final Word

Whether capturing the beauty of your pregnant body, the details of your newborn baby, the remarkable changes of your children as they grow or special moments of your family’s life, black and white photographs are a beautiful option for your family keepsakes.

Black and white photography is not just a stylistic choice; it’s an emotional one. It captures the essence of those fleeting moments that you’ll want to treasure forever. This is why I love to include black and white portraits in my client galleries.

I hope you enjoyed this exploration into the captivating world of black and white portrait photography. If you are feeling inspired, email me now to book your FREE Consultation Appointment and let’s get planning your beautiful portraits together!

Sort and Store: Make Room for the New

Next, organise what you’re keeping
Use labelled storage boxes to neatly stow away seasonal items, keepsakes, or things you don’t need immediate access to. Clear containers make it easy to see what’s inside, while labels ensure everything has a designated spot. Not only does this create more room, but it also helps streamline future clean-ups!

Create Zones for Easy Organisation

One of the most effective ways to keep your home tidy is by designating specific zones for certain activities or items, for example:

• A book nook: A cosy corner with bookshelves or baskets to store your family’s favourite books.
• A toy corner: Use boxes or shelves to organise toys by category, making it easy for kids to find—and put back—what they play with.
• A gadget hub: Dedicate a drawer or shelf for charging cables, remotes, and tech gadgets to eliminate the constant “Where’s my charger?” hunt.

By assigning clear areas, you’ll not only reduce the clutter but also make tidying up a much simpler (and faster) task for everyone.

Set New Routines: Small Habits, Big Impact

Organisation isn’t a one-time task; it’s a habit. To keep your home running smoothly, set simple daily or weekly routines that everyone can follow. For example:

• Spend 10 minutes each evening tidying up family spaces.
• Have a ‘one-in, one-out’ rule for new items: when something new comes in, an old item goes out.
• Get the kids involved! Give them age-appropriate responsibilities, like putting away their toys or folding their clean clothes. Make it fun with my tidy up cards below!

Get your FREE Tidying Up Cards for Kids!

To make tidying up more fun, I’ve created these fun, printable A5 tidying-up cards designed just for kids.

Download them here for free!

Starting the year with an organised home isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that brings you peace and joy. By decluttering, defining spaces, and building habits that stick, you can transform the post-Christmas chaos into a clean, calm, and functional home. 

So, let’s take the first step toward a clutter-free, stress-free year together. Here’s to a happier, more organised January!

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your Elf on the Shelf late at night, wondering where to hide it next, you’re not alone! Finding new ways to keep the magic alive can be challenging, especially when you’re short on time or inspiration. But don’t worry—I have some simple, creative ideas that will bring smiles to your children’s faces and save you the late-night stress.

Elf at the Spa

Let’s face it: even the elf needs a little R&R now and then! For a cosy elf spa scene, grab a bowl or cup, fill it with marshmallows to create a “bubble bath,” and place the elf inside as if they’re enjoying a relaxing soak.

To make it even cuter, you can wrap a tiny washcloth or napkin around its head like a towel. This one is bound to bring giggles and is especially easy to set up, so you can still get to bed early.

Toilet Paper Snowman

This idea is as easy as it is adorable! Stack two or three toilet rolls. Draw eyes, a carrot nose, and a wide smile on the top roll (or on a piece of paper and roll around the top roll if you don't want to mark your toilet paper). You can even use stickers or add a hat and scarf for added character. 

Set your elf nearby with a marker or pencil to make it look like they’ve created the snowy masterpiece. It’s a cute and quick way to add a little festive cheer to the bathroom!

Christmas Countdown

A simple countdown is a great way to build excitement as Christmas Day approaches. Create a small note with the number of days left on a tiny piece of paper, or use a mini chalkboard to create a countdown sign.

You can place the elf holding it near the other decorations or by your little one’s advent calendar. This one is quick and interactive, and you can use it for more than one day!

Elf in the Fridge

Take advantage of a fun location and place the elf in the fridge! Put a little scarf or hat on them to give the impression they’re braving the cold. Arrange them near some food to make it look like they’re getting a snack. This idea takes just a few seconds, but the unexpected surprise of opening the fridge to see the elf will be super fun for your little one

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE GUIDE!

All parents know that keeping up with fresh Elf on the Shelf ideas can be difficult, but a little creativity goes a long way. Just a few minutes each evening can make all the difference in keeping the magic alive without adding stress.

If you need more ideas, I’ve got you covered! Join our VIP Group and receive our Ultimate Elf on the Shelf Guide with 24 ideas (one for each day in December up to Christmas Eve!) for FREE! Let's make this Christmas extra special for your little ones.