Some tips and questions for a Newborn Photo Shoot - Tunbridge Wells

We get asked lots of questions about our Newborn sessions, so I hope to answer as many as possible in today’s blog.

When is the best time to book a shoot?

We only schedule a couple of Newborn shoots a week.  That way when one baby arrives late but another arrives early, we can manoeuvre sessions around.  Once your payment has been made you are guaranteed a session.  Unfortunately, we can’t hold sessions without payment.  The best time to book is as soon after your 20 week scan as possible. If you would like to take advantage of the free Bump shoot we would schedule that for between 33 and 36 weeks and then the Newborn shoot within 10 days of the expected due date.  We understand that you have a lot to do in the run up to a new baby arriving, but we ask that you keep us as up to date as possible to enable us to reschedule if needed.  It’s a good idea to nominate a close family member as our point of contact, so that they can drop us an email when you know baby is on the way.

Why does the shoot have to be in the first 10 days?

The absolute best time for a Newborn to be photographed is as early as possible within the first 10 days and certainly no later than 14 days, our record so far is 2 days old!  Newborn babies have a period of time when they are still getting used to the big wide world. They sleep a lot and quite deeply.  After the 14 day mark the little ones are becoming more aware of what’s going on around them and are harder to settle.  They also get very good at stretching their arms and legs which means we lose that lovely tucked up posing of a younger baby. Having said all of that we can do a session later but your expectations should be different, as a 4 week old is very different to a 10 day old! The best thing to do is contact us as soon as possible and we will always do our best to help you.

What do I need to bring?

We completely understand that once a new baby has arrived getting out of the front door becomes quite a mission!  We always ask our new Mums and Dads to only have the photo shoot in the diary for that day.  Hopefully that will mean everyone will be nice and relaxed.  It is very important for you to remain calm otherwise little one will pick up on Mummy’s stress and become anxious too.

You don’t need to bring too much on the day.  If you are bottle feeding make sure you have a made up bottle with you.  Some muslin's are a good idea for mopping up, spare nappies and wipes.  If you are using a dummy, please make sure you bring one with you.  If you want to include a favourite teddy or blanket please bring them along.

What does baby and parents need to wear?

We photograph baby mainly in just a nappy, but if you want to bring baby in your favourite outfit we can always start with that.  Mum and Dad, you need to wear layers as we have the Studio toasty warm and it can get a little uncomfortable for the adults.  Also, think about any family shots you might like.  Do you prefer skin on skin or clothed?  A vest top or bandanna style top/bra is a good idea.

How will the session work?

We have years of experience and training and that’s what you are paying for!  In most sessions there will be both Paul and myself present.  We aim to achieve as natural a pose as possible.  We don’t do composite images, as we firmly believe that a Newborn shouldn’t be put in position that it can’t do naturally.  With your permission we will handle your baby from the minute you arrive.  Little babies are very perceptive and if they smell Mummy they might think it’s time to have a top up!  You can relax and watch the shoot with a cuppa if you like. We will use a selection of different blankets and backdrops to create a variety of images for you to choose from. Also, we can do a passport photo if required during the session.  We offer this for half price (£6.00 for 4 prints + key ring) if completed during your Newborn Photo Shoot.

When do I see the images?

When we have finished the session, we will book an ordering appointment in the diary for you.  You are welcome to bring along Grandparents to the viewing.  We will give you a copy of the price list when you leave the Studio but if you would like to view one before then just drop us an email.  We will run a slide show and then help you to create a short list of your favourite images.  Once we know what kind of product you are looking for whether that be prints, digital files, frames or canvasses we will help you to select your absolute favourites.  Our print collections start from £150 and digital file collections start from £295.  

How long before we receive our order?

We usually aim to turn an order around within 4 weeks of the order being placed.  Every image is professionally retouched and printed and this takes time, but rest assured we will be in touch as soon as everything is ready.  We ask that you collect your chosen products from the Studio.

Well, I think that's it!  Fingers crossed I have covered everything but if you have any questions please let me know.  To discuss your session please call the Studio on 01892 523134.