If you’ve never been to a newborn photography session before, you might be wondering what actually happens when you arrive.
Will your baby need to sleep the whole time? What if they’re hungry? What if they cry? Do you need to bring lots of things with you? And what if your baby simply doesn’t want to cooperate?
These are all questions I hear from new parents, and they’re completely understandable.
The lovely thing about my newborn photography sessions is that there is no pressure for your baby to behave in a certain way.
As a newborn photographer in Doncaster, my approach is very relaxed, natural and baby-led. Your baby is in charge, and we simply work around them.
Arriving at my studio in Armthorpe
When you arrive at my natural light studio in Armthorpe, Doncaster, there’s no rush to get started.
You can take a moment to settle in, get comfortable and get your baby ready. If your baby is hungry, needs a cuddle or simply wants some time to take everything in, that’s absolutely fine.
Newborn sessions are deliberately relaxed, so there’s no clock-watching or feeling that we need to get through a long list of poses.
I want you to feel comfortable too. After all, you’ve only just had a baby!
What if my baby is hungry?
Feed them!
There really is no need to worry about feeding your baby during your newborn photography session.
Babies are tiny people with very important needs, and being hungry is definitely one of them. If your baby needs feeding at any point, we simply stop and let them feed.
You can breastfeed or bottle-feed, whichever you normally do. There’s no need to try to change your baby’s routine just because you have a photography session.
Sometimes a feed is all they need before they settle back into your arms, and sometimes they want a little extra time for cuddles afterwards. Both are completely normal.
And what if my baby cries?
This is probably one of the biggest worries new parents have.
Please don't worry if your baby cries.
Your baby isn't expected to lie perfectly still and smile for the camera. They are a newborn!
They might wriggle, pull funny faces, make little noises, need a cuddle or decide that they really don't like the idea of being put down. That's all part of it.
We take our time and follow their cues. Sometimes the most beautiful photographs happen while you're comforting them, holding them close or simply looking down at them.
Those moments are just as precious as a photograph of a peacefully sleeping baby.
Does my baby need to sleep?
Absolutely not.
Although sleepy newborn photographs are lovely, I don't expect your baby to sleep throughout their session.
Some babies sleep deeply, some sleep for short periods and some are wide awake taking everything in.
My newborn photography sessions are baby-led, which means we work with whatever your baby gives us on the day.
If they're awake, we can capture those beautiful little eyes. If they're sleepy, we'll photograph those tiny eyelashes and peaceful expressions. If they want to be held, we'll include plenty of cuddly images with you.
There is no right or wrong way for your baby to be.
Lots of cuddles are encouraged
Your baby won't be expected to spend the whole session away from you.
Cuddles are a huge part of my newborn sessions, and I love capturing the connection between you and your new baby.
We'll photograph you holding them, those tiny hands and feet, their little details and all the natural moments that happen when you're simply together.
Siblings can be included too, and we'll take things at their pace. There is never any pressure for everyone to sit perfectly still and look at the camera.
What do I need to bring?
Not much!
My natural light studio in Armthorpe has been designed with newborn sessions in mind, with a simple, neutral and calming style.
I provide the fabrics and little touches we use during your session, so you don't need to arrive with a suitcase full of props.
I also have a selection of neutral clothing available in the studio if you'd like to use it.
The focus is very much on your baby and your family, rather than lots of props or complicated setups.
A relaxed experience for you too
Most importantly, I want you to enjoy the experience.
You've probably spent the last few days (or weeks!) thinking about feeds, nappies, sleep and whether you're doing everything right. Your newborn photography session isn't another thing you need to get "right".
Come as you are.
Bring your baby, your cuddles and your tired new-parent self. We'll take plenty of time, follow your baby's lead and capture the little moments that you'll want to remember forever.
As a Doncaster newborn photographer, I'm not looking for perfect poses or perfectly sleepy babies. I'm looking to capture your baby, exactly as they are at this fleeting little stage of life.
Because your newborn doesn't need to be perfectly posed or perfectly sleepy.
They just need to be themselves.
And that's exactly how I like to photograph them.
