How old should a baby be at their newborn baby photoshoot?
As a parent-to-be or new parent, you may be considering a newborn baby photoshoot.
You’ve seen sleeping baby portraits like these online and want similar photos of your own baby. And why wouldn’t you?
But you may have been put off slightly, simply because you’ve been told that your baby must be only days or a week or so old at the time of their newborn baby photoshoot.
And for whatever reason, your baby is already older than this.
- Perhaps you’ve only just begun considering newborn photography and your baby is already several weeks old?
- Perhaps you hadn’t realised you needed to book in advance, so in the days that have passed while you try to find a photographer, your baby is now several weeks old?
- Maybe there were complications at the birth or afterwards which has led you or the baby to have been in hospital for longer than expected, so you haven’t been able to get to a photographer’s studio in those early weeks?
- Or maybe, you‘re just finding the whole experience of having a baby exhausting and overwhelming (you wouldn’t be alone on this one!) and just haven’t been able to get out of your PJ’s let alone out of the house with the new baby?
You CAN still have a newborn baby photoshoot if your baby is older than 14 days
Whatever the reason for you not having had your newborn baby photoshoot yet, fear not!
I’m here today to tell you that there IS still time for a photographer to capture beautiful sleeping photos of your baby.
And yes, I mean, EVEN if they are more than a few weeks old.
Newborn photography for ‘older’ babies
Case in point. I had beautiful baby Piper in the studio recently who was far from a sleeping, curled up newborn. She was a chunky 13 weeks old.
She was a gorgeous girly and lovely to work with, although obviously was so much bigger and more alert than the newborn babies that I am usually photographing in my studio.
OK, it was more challenging for me perhaps.
With her not sleeping as much as a days-old newborn would, it was certainly a completely different experience for me as the photographer.
I needed to be able to position her a little differently to how I would a tiny newborn but was still able to get those super sleepy poses parents love. When I have an older newborn in the studio I love to get those giggles and smiles too for parents. As you can see, Piper was full of fun!
Photography for children of all ages
I got some gorgeous portraits of baby Piper and am thrilled with the results. And, most importantly, so are her parents!
She is not the first ‘older’ newborn baby I have photographed either.
No, in my eight years as a newborn photographer I have worked with loads of babies who are considered ‘too old’ for newborn photography.
Can you believe that most newborn photographers consider babies ‘too old’ if they are over four weeks old? Crazy!
I am proud to be able to offer my services to clients whatever the age of their baby.
Rudy here is a bonny nine weeks old. Giggling and sleeping, even after a long car journey to me.
Experienced newborn photographer
I guess that it comes down to experience.
I have eight solid years of experience working with newborns and am confident that I can work with babies of any age.
But I also think that I am not afraid of a challenge, and don’t want to always go for the easy option.
Working with an older baby might be different to a typical newborn baby photoshoot, but the satisfaction of meeting the challenge and achieving results like these is extremely satisfying!
Book your newborn baby photoshoot today
The truth is, I love photographing babies of all ages. Take a look at my newborn and baby gallery here to see just a small selection of the portraits I have taken.
I am based in Dorset but regularly have clients travelling from London and across neighbouring counties, and even from abroad, to have their photos with me. So, if you haven’t found a photographer willing to do your newborn baby photoshoot, if your baby is more than a few weeks old, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me!
To book your session contact me on 07749 270431, email me at karenwiltshire@me.com or complete the contact form on my website.
Karen x
I’m an award-winning maternity photographer!
I’ve just got back to Dorset, from the annual Societies Convention in London, with an award for my maternity photography. Yep, I’m now officially an award-winning maternity photographer! To say I’m over the moon would be an understatement!
Every January, I go along to the Societies of Photographers’ event. As a member, it’s one of the key events in my diary every year.
I love the event because I get to meet up with photographers from across the world. And there’s the chance to attend training workshops with amazingly talented photographers and have your work professionally judged.
This year, I submitted a maternity portrait in the international print competition, and am thrilled to have been awarded a Merit.
Every year, competition is extremely tough. Entries are received from of thousands of photographers from across the UK and beyond. So, it’s an absolutely brilliant feeling to have received recognition in this highly competitive competition. The print was displayed in a top London hotel for the duration of the convention.
Award-winning maternity photographer
I chose to put this maternity portrait, of the lovely Ashley, forward for judging this time because I just loved everything about the image. The composition, the posing, the lighting – everything worked out perfectly, just how I had planned.
And, how stunning does she look? That bump?! Such a beautiful maternity photo for her to treasure.
The image was enhanced even further thanks to the help of my wonderful mentor Damian McGillicuddy and partner Lesley McGillicuddy. Their guidance and support, and invaluable expertise with the printing really made the portrait shine!
Award-winning maternity photography in Dorset and Hampshire
My studio and outdoor maternity sessions have always been extremely popular. But winning this award has given me really valuable encouragement to continue creating these beautiful mum-to-be portraits for my pregnant clients.
If you’re interested in booking a maternity session with an award-winning maternity photographer in Dorset, do get in touch. They are a great way to celebrate your pregnancy.
Even if you don’t feel it, you look absolutely gorgeous in those final weeks of your pregnancy. A professional hair and makeup session will add further wow factor or come as you are and have some natural maternity portraits taken.
Plus, I can make you look and feel even more amazing in my stunning range of designer maternity dresses. Or, we can keep it simple – just you and your beautiful bump!
Studio maternity session or outdoor maternity session – the choice is yours!
Maternity photoshoots are available all year round and I can tailor the session completely to your preferences.
You may have a favourite local location where you want to be photographed, and if so, fine! We can go out at any time of year, whether to the forest, the beach or anywhere else you have in mind across Dorset or Hampshire.
I love this beautiful image of Laine taken on location in January.
Related reading: What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot
Or you may have a particular colour scheme in mind? Perhaps you want a coloured dress to complement the décor of a room at home? Just let me know and I can create exactly what you’d like.
You deserve this time to take a moment out of your busy schedule just for you and your unborn baby, so book your maternity session with me, your local and award-winning maternity photographer today. ?
I can’t wait to hear from you!
Karen
Don’t forget Dad-to-be: Introducing couple’s maternity photoshoots
I’ve been busy doing lots of outdoor maternity sessions so far this year. But something new, that I have been doing more and more of recently, is couple’s maternity photos.
Yep, I’ve been getting the dads-to-be involved in some of my recent maternity sessions! And the families who have embraced this new idea are loving the portraits that I’ve created for them.
Maternity photography
Maternity photography traditionally focuses on the mum-to-be who is carrying the baby. It’s done in the final weeks before the birth (usually sometime between weeks 28-34), and is done as a way of celebrating the pregnancy.
Thanks to the gorgeous Mio Estillo dresses that I have available, and the optional extra of a bit of pampering and styling beforehand, a maternity session makes my ladies feel fabulous!
And importantly, the portrait creates a lasting memory of the pregnancy and can be hung pride of place on the walls at home as a permanent record of that special time.
Introducing couple’s maternity photos
But, if you know me and my work, you’ll know that I like to experiment and try out new things!
I thought to myself, why should a maternity photos session just be about the mum?
What about the dads too? Yes, the woman is carrying the baby, but it’s as much his baby as hers!
Getting pregnant and having a baby is an emotional journey that involves two people. And so now, I like to involve the dad-to-be as well, if they wish.
My couple’s maternity photoshoots capture both mum and dad (and any children or pets as well). Creating a portrait that celebrates the family unit and the emotion of the journey that they are experiencing together.
Relaxed photoshoots, natural portraits
Men can often be reluctant to get involved and to be photographed, but I make all my clients feel comfortable. My sessions are 100% relaxed and lots of fun.
Dads, I won’t ask you to look at the camera necessarily, which can make you feel awkward. I’m not after cheesy photos of you smiling at the camera.
No, my style of photography is to capture natural maternity photos that tell a story. To show the connection between the people in the photograph. It is done in a timeless style – like the examples I am showing here. The maternity photos don’t date and can be enjoyed for years and years to come.
Indoor and outdoor couple’s maternity photos
I take maternity, and couple’s maternity portraits, in my photography studio in Poole. Or, if you prefer, we can go outdoors. I can photograph you in locations such as local parks, on the beach or any other local place special to you as a couple.
If you are interested in my maternity photography, and the idea of getting your partner and children involved too, please contact me today to book one of my couple’s maternity photoshoots.
I’m available on 07749 270431 or email me at karenwiltshire@me.com or complete this contact form.
Karen x
Join me on an outdoor maternity photoshoot this autumn
Today on the blog, I wanted to share with you some examples of beautiful outdoor maternity photoshoot sessions I’ve taken recently while out on location.
Since the leaves are changing colour and falling to the ground now, it’s the perfect time to have an outdoor maternity photoshoot.
The gorgeous burnt oranges, browns and yellows are everywhere at the moment. And these wonderful autumn colours create a stunning backdrop for my photographs.
I’ve been loving the chance to create maternity portraits with an autumnal twist, as you’ll see!
On-location maternity photography in Dorset
As you’ll know if you’ve been following my work for a while, I love doing studio portraits. But I equally love getting outdoors with my camera.
My photographer friend Jacqui and I are always on the lookout for new locations although we find that the best places for autumnal colour are often local parks and woodlands. There are several places in and around Bournemouth and Poole, near to my photography studio here in Dorset, which never disappoint.
When scouting for a potential location, I specifically seek out places where there are plenty of leaves on the ground as this creates a lovely carpet of colour. And I look for trees we can incorporate into the shot as well.
For example, isn’t this one of Emma absolutely stunning? So serene and elegant – I absolutely love it.
Related reading: What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot
But I’m also keen to ensure there aren’t too many people around, so you don’t feel that you’re in front of an audience. My pregnant lady clients wearing luxurious dresses have been known to turn heads if there are people nearby!
New maternity gowns – perfect for autumn and winter
As well as being excited about the changing seasons, I’m just totally in love with my new range of maternity gowns.
Since it’s autumn (and winter will along before we know it), I’ve recently bought a new batch of maternity dresses to add to my ever-growing collection. I now have these stunning velvet dresses in a number of different colours and they look A-MA-ZING on!
They are super luxe dresses and are so flattering. They catch the light beautifully. Aren’t they fab?!
I’ve got them in a dusky pink and a rich deep blue so far. But because they come in a range of beautiful colours and look so fantastic on camera, I’m also toying with the idea of buying some more (I know, I know, but I just can’t resist!).
The gold and burnt orange ones are definitely on my wish list.
Book your autumnal outdoor maternity photoshoot today
So, if you’re in your final months of pregnancy, why not book yourself in for an outdoor maternity photoshoot with me?
You’ll have the chance to wear one of these stunning new dresses if you wanted. And you’ll get the chance to be photographed like these lovely ladies out and about among the beautiful autumn colours while it lasts.
Outdoor maternity photoshoots with the rest of the family
An outdoor maternity photoshoot in autumn is perfect if you’re after flattering pictures that capture you at this extra special time in your pregnancy. It’s a chance to take some much-needed time out from the last-minute preparations before your baby arrives. So, just treat yourself!
All my sessions are relaxed and enjoyable. So, whether you’re body-confident or feel a bit awkward carrying your bump around, I promise that a maternity photoshoot with me will be a fun experience.
And feel free to bring along other family members too – I encourage you to come with your partner, your other children (if you have them), and even your pets!
Get in touch as soon as possible if you’d like to book though as I only have limited slots available.
For more examples of my maternity portraiture, keep scrolling! Also, please visit my maternity and pregnancy website gallery.
Karen x
KW Photography gift vouchers: Why not treat someone to a family photoshoot experience?
Let’s face it 2020 has been a year of missing family and friends and we are all looking to treat our nearest and dearest. If you’re looking for the perfect gift, why not treat that someone special with a family photoshoot experience at KW Photography?
My photography gift vouchers are ideal for families of up to five people. Buy one for yourself or for others as a birthday or Christmas gift, or as a wedding or anniversary present. Anytime is a good time to have family portraits taken!
Family photoshoot experience at KW Photography
Priced at £99, KW Photography gift vouchers are a present that any Dorset or Hampshire-based family would love to receive!
They entitle the recipient to a professional 20-30-minute family photoshoot (not suitable for newborn) with me for up to 5 people in my studio. The session can take place at a date of their choosing, subject to my availability and up until the voucher expiry date (as marked on the voucher).
An all-inclusive, great value price for family photography
The price you pay for the voucher includes five high-resolution, professionally edited family portraits as digital files ready for them to print and display around the home.
This is an incredible value package offering a significant saving on my usual studio session fee and my digital image collections.
The best thing about buying one of the KW Photography gift vouchers is that there are no extra costs for your recipient to pay. The price of £99 secures the voucher, guarantees a slot in my diary, and includes the photo session and five print-ready images.
The perfect gift for photography lovers
KW Photography gift vouchers are available to buy now and would make the perfect gift for those who like to record special family moments in photographs.
Get your family photoshoot experience gift voucher today
If you would love to have a family photoshoot experience with me, then grab one for yourself, or for someone else, while you can!
There are only limited gift vouchers available to purchase at this great value price, so these are likely to sell out fast. Contact me via this form for more information or hit the “Buy Now” button to purchase a voucher.
Karen x
Shop local this Christmas: 10 gift ideas for Dorset families
This year, I’m making a conscious effort to buy more ‘experience’-type Christmas gifts. If f you’re tempted to do the same then read on.
I’ve compiled a list of gift ideas for Dorset families. I’m sure if you bought something off this list for your family or friends, they would be delighted!
Supporting local independent businesses at Christmas
As a small business owner myself, I consider it really important to support other independent local, businesses. Let’s face it, it’s tough out there! Anything you can do to support these people will certainly be much appreciated and help to keep them in business.
These gift ideas for Dorset families include products, services and experiences. I’m suggesting just some of the many gifts you could buy from small independent businesses local to me here in Poole in Dorset.
Do let me know in the comments below which others you would suggest I add to my list!
Gifts that keep on giving
Many of these suggestions are gifts that keep on giving. They are not just another plastic toy that will soon be discarded and forgotten about. Nope, I’ve deliberately selected gifts that the family can enjoy together.
And they are the type of gift that is not necessarily just going to be enjoyed at Christmas time, but well into the new year too.
I hope you find this list useful. If you do, please also share it with your parents, friends, colleagues and family to give them some gift ideas this Christmas too.
My Top Ten Christmas gift ideas for Dorset families
-
A KW Photography Family Photoshoot Experience
First up is my very own family photoshoot experience! My brand-new gift vouchers are now available to buy for just £95. They would be a great gift idea for a local family who would love the gift of photography to capture special family memories.
A private 30-minute mini portrait session and five high-resolution, print-ready images are included in the price, and the vouchers can be redeemed at any time (subject to my availability) up until the end of July 2019.
I’m releasing just 10 for sale this Christmas, so if you’d like one, please contact me ASAP to secure yours.
-
Farmer Palmers Farm Park Annual Season Ticket
This award-winning family attraction is a must-visit if you have children under 8 years old. It’s open all year round and has indoor and outdoor activities that will keep the kids entertained for hours!
As season ticket entitles you to unlimited entry throughout the year. Prices start from just £21 for a child aged 2, and they are £45 for adults.
For more information visit: https://farmerpalmers.co.uk/annual-passes/
-
Moors Valley Country Park Car Park Pass
Moors Valley is another year-round attraction with loads to do for all the family. It’s the home of Go Ape, the treetop adventure, and it’s where you can enjoy a full day out among the forest.
Following the play trail, picnicking on the lawn, riding on a miniature steam train and playing on the playground equipment are just a few of the things you can do there!
A car parking season ticket will save you lots of money if you visit regularly. For more information visit: https://www.moors-valley.co.uk/visitor-information/season-tickets/
-
Chewton Glen Spa Experience
I don’t think I know any hard-working mummy (or daddy for that matter) who wouldn’t enjoy a relaxing spa day experience, and Chewton Glen in the New Forest is the best in the area.
But even if a spa day doesn’t float your boat, there are lots of other things to do. You could enjoy a relaxing lunch in the hotel grounds, or an indulgent champagne afternoon tea. Or, there’s even the option of a half-day cookery class or a ‘treehouse escape’!
Vouchers are available to buy in denominations of £10 and upwards. For more information visit: https://www.chewtonglen.com/spoil-yourself/the-spa/
-
Cherry Picked Hampers
Hampers are a great gift at Christmas time, and Cherry Picked Hampers contain products sourced only from across Dorset – what a great way to support local producers!
They offer an extensive range of hampers, including local wines, beer and ciders, cheeses and chutneys, with prices starting from just £12. For more information visit: https://www.cherrypickedhampers.co.uk/
-
A National Trust Annual Pass
Members of the National Trust get access to over 500 attractions across the country – my favourites locally are Brownsea Island and Kingston Lacey. There’s also free parking for Trust members at all attractions including at the beach carparks at Studland.
There are junior memberships available for children and teenagers, priced just £10 for the year. For more information visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/join-us
-
Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre Gift Voucher
Gift vouchers are a great way to treat someone you know who loves Monkey World. Valid for 12 months, the vouchers are available to buy in denominations of £5, £10, £20 and £50 and can be redeemed against the entrance fee and used in the catering outlets and on-site shop.
Gift vouchers are also available for guided tours around the centre, which is open every day except Christmas Day. For more information visit the Monkey World website.
-
Chococo Chocolate Experiences
Sure to be a hit with chocolate lovers is the Chocolate Experience by the Swanage-based chocolate manufacturer, Chococo. This company creates fresh luxury chocolate gifts which have been handmade in Dorset since 2002.
Suitable for children and adults, their experiences include chocolate tastings, chocolate parties and you can even make your own in their chocolate workshops. You can also give the gift of chocolate by buying a three-month chocolate subscription – yum!
For more information visit: https://www.chococo.co.uk/
-
Cinema tickets
If the little (and big) kids in your family love going to the cinema, as they do in mine, then a great Christmas gift is Cineworld’s Christmas Gift Box.
This includes 2 x 2D film vouchers, 2 regular soft drinks, 1 regular popcorn voucher and 2 candy canes or a pack of humbugs. They also the option of buying a year’s worth of unlimited cinema visits with their Unlimited Gift Box.
For more information visit: https://www.cineworld.co.uk
-
A cultural experience at Pavilion Dance South West
Finally, if you know a family who loves dance, theatre, music and storytelling, then why not treat them to an experience at Pavilion Dance, based in central Bournemouth?
Pavilion Dance hosts live dance performances, screenings, exhibitions and more than 40 different dance classes each week, many of which are suitable for families and young people to enjoy together.
For more information visit: https://www.pdsw.org.uk/whats-on/
Gift ideas for Dorset families
Which of these gifts will you buy for local family and friends this Christmas? Please do comment below to let me know.
Bye for now,
Karen x
Seven things you may not expect of your professional portrait session
You’ve made the decision to have a professional portrait session. Great! And now you’ve selected your preferred photographer (hopefully me!). The date is all booked in your diary and you’re now looking ahead to having the portraits taken.
You’ve probably got an idea of how it will turn out (after all, you’ve done your research), and you’re already imagining the pictures taking pride of place on your walls or mantlepiece at home.
But, whether it’s a maternity, newborn, older baby or child, family, cake smash or outdoor lifestyle shoot that you’ve booked, the chances are that they’ll be some unexpected aspects of the experience. After all, you never can predict how things will go, especially if young children are involved!
In today’s blog, I’m revealing seven things that you’ll experience when hiring me for a professional portrait session that you may not have expected.
Surprising features of your professional portrait session with KW Photography
-
In-depth guidance on what to expect and how to prepare
I realise that you may never have hired a photographer before, apart from your wedding photographer perhaps, unless you are a repeat customer of mine. So, it’s a new experience for you and you won’t necessarily know what to expect. And, if this is the case, don’t worry.
When you get in touch with me to book, I’ll send you all the information you’ll need in advance of your photoshoot. Plus, you can find extra information on my website, on the Frequently Asked Questions page, in my Newborn Photography Guide (if relevant to you) and within my blogs.
Clients often tell me that they hadn’t realised I would help them to prepare so well. But I do this because I’m committed to helping you feel as prepared as possible for your photoshoot. And, if you still have questions, then please don’t hesitate to ask – simply call me or drop me an email.
-
Hands-on help with your newborn baby
If you’re having a newborn portrait session with me, once you’ve arrived and we’re ready to get started, I’ll settle your baby to sleep and position then safely for the photographs.
Some parents are surprised to learn that I do this and have expected that they’d need to do far more themselves during the session. But honestly, you should just sit back and relax.
My comfy Poole-based photography studio is spacious and welcoming, and there’s plenty of room for you to rest, put up your feet and enjoy the session. Take advantage of the soft seating, the complimentary drinks, flick through my portfolio brochures and look at the examples of art on the walls.
Or even feel free to even have a little doze if you wish, since you’ll almost certainly be a little sleep-deprived!
-
Guidance on how to look your best for the photos
I believe that another important part of my job is to give you guidance and to make you feel at ease. My aim is to make you look your very best in the pictures, so I will direct you throughout the session.
If it’s a studio-based child or family session, I’ll use my experience of what works well to advise you on how to stand, sit or interact with the other members of your family. Or if it’s a maternity session, I’ll guide you on how to pose in a way that’s flattering and elegant.
There’s nothing worse than not knowing how to stand, which way to look or what to do with your hands, I know. So, I take all that doubt away by giving you clear instructions. And we’ll be chatting away the whole time too, which will also help to distract and relax you.
When I’m photographing an outdoor lifestyle shoot though, I’ll be encouraging you to simply have fun. In these sessions, I may give you some direction but I’m more focused on capturing the natural moments, the smiles and the interactions that unfold.
-
Tricks to get your baby to look to the camera
Of course, in a cake smash or a baby portrait session, young children don’t always take instruction! But, I have plenty of tricks up my sleeve that’ll encourage your little one to interact with the camera.
Again, my best tip for you would be to leave it to me – to be honest, if you wave your arms around or say their name, chances are they’ll look at you rather than me, so they won’t be looking into the camera.
During a baby session I am usually on the floor, singing nursery rhymes, using squeaky toys and rolling balls around the room – yes, I may look a bit mad at times! But these are tried and tested techniques for getting great photos, so I’d urge you to just go with it and leave me to it!
Remember, I’ve photographed hundreds of babies and young children over the years, so I know how to get the cooperation of even the most reluctant children!
-
Poop happens!
When it comes to photographing newborn babies, you may also be surprised to discover babies often do poop or wee in my studio – either on me, on you or on the floor!
Many a time parents have looked at me in embarrassment and horror when their newborn baby does this for the first time, but honestly, there’s no need to worry!
I am fully prepared for life’s little accidents, and of course, it’s completely natural. Everything in my studio is washable, and I clean and sterilise everything I use in the studio before each session.
-
Editing and refining your image gallery
When it comes to reviewing the portraits taken during your session, you’ll perhaps also be relieved to learn that I’ll do the hard work of whittling the hundred or so images I’ve taken, down into an edited gallery for you to choose from.
I select the images that are the best of the best, and then I spend time editing those pictures to achieve the final image gallery from your professional portrait session.
Wondering why professional photographers edit their photographs? I explain that here.
Parents are often surprised to realise how much work goes on behind the scenes and about the editing process. When I tell them it can sometimes take over an hour to edit each image, they tell me they didn’t realise!
Only once fully edited are the images ready for you to view. I will then send you a link to view your gallery or, if you’d prefer, you have the option of returning to my studio, where I have a dedicated area for viewing your portrait gallery on a large screen. This is the most exciting bit – the big reveal!
-
Help with choosing your final images
A further, often unexpected benefit of hiring me is that I can help you to decide which are your favourite images from the final image gallery.
Choosing which images to purchase can be tough! It’s highly likely that you’ll love all of the images and will find it hard to select the ones you love the best. So, I can be there to guide you on your final selections if you did want some help with this.
It’s important for you to realise though, that I deliberately sit quietly while you view your gallery for the very first time. I don’t impose my preferences on you or make you buy images that you don’t want (or more than you want).
My sole aim with a viewing appointment is to help you choose your favourite images and to help you make the often-difficult decisions about which ones, and how, you’ll display in your home.
Initial reactions to the images are usually very telling, so I’ll be encouraging you to go with your gut and choose the images you love at first sight.
You’re now fully prepared for your professional portrait session!
So, there you have it. Seven things you may not have expected about your professional portrait session with me. I would love to know which of these surprised you the most? Do let me know in the comments below.
If you’ve yet to book but would like to, please complete this contact form. I look forward to hearing from you!
And if you know someone in Dorset, Hampshire or even further afield who may be interested in having professional portraits taken, please do share this article with them. Thank you!
Karen x
Newborn, baby and family photography: What options do you have at KW Photography?
Here at KW Photography, I offer a variety of different newborn, baby and family photography sessions so this article is a round-up of the services that are available if you choose me as your portrait photographer.
I want you to be clear on what the options for child and baby portrait sessions with me are so that you can make the right choice for your family.
Newborn Photography
My most popular service is my newborn photography. This is my signature service – the one thing I have become known for and which I am the most experienced in. It’s completely true that photographing newborn babies is my first love!
I just adore working with newborn babies and love creating portraits of your brand-new baby, capturing them as they are in their first few days of life. They don’t stay like this for long, so I think it’s so important to photograph this amazing stage.
-
A ‘Newborn’ Studio Session
I’m known for my sleeping baby pictures and I’ve photographed over 1000 babies to date!
In this type of session, I spend up to 3-4 hours photographing your baby, creating a variety of poses, and using different props and backdrops to give you a wide choice of images (20-30) to choose from.
-
Outdoor newborn portraits
Plus, if you want something different, in addition to the traditional posed newborn images, you can now take advantage of the option to have newborn photos taken in my outdoor garden studio as part your newborn studio session. This is included in the newborn session fee.
Outdoor newborn portraits have proved very popular since I started doing them last year. I keep your baby warm at all times, don’t worry! As always, your baby’s safety is my number one priority.
-
The ‘My First Year’ package
This is a great option for families who want newborn photos and know they’d also like to return for baby photos on two additional occasions in their baby’s first year.
I typically capture babies at the ‘sitting’ stage, at approximately 6-8 months, and again on their first birthday (many families choose to upgrade this first birthday session to a ‘cake smash’ photoshoot).
Another thing to point out is that when you book a newborn session with me, you are very welcome to bring older siblings, family members and even your furry friends to also be featured in the photos. I’m a dog lover myself and know that they are an important part of the family too!
Baby and family photography is what I specialise in so adorable sibling photos and mum/dad pictured with the baby are important photos to take. Family photos (up to five people) come as standard too!
Click here for more information about my newborn photography services and here to see examples in my newborn photo gallery.
Baby and Family Photography
If you’ve missed the newborn stage but are still keen to get photos of your baby once they are a few months old, there are plenty of options for you:
-
Relaxed older ‘newborn’ photos
Some photographers won’t attempt newborn-style photography with babies over four weeks, but I am very confident working with babies of any age.
The images you can expect to receive when the baby is a little older will be just as beautiful, but they will be more relaxed as your baby won’t be as curled up anymore, and they will be more alert than days-old newborns who sleep almost all day.
Which means that I can usually achieve adorable wide-eyed photos like this.
Click here for more information about my newborn photo sessions and here to see examples in my newborn photo gallery.
-
Baby portrait sessions
You can also come to me at any time in your baby’s first year for a baby portrait session. Common milestones that parents like to document are the:
- At approximately 3-4 months – I can photograph them laying on their backs, smiling or practising their ‘tummy time’
- At approximately 6-8 months – typically babies are learning or have learnt to crawl and can sit independently which is a big achievement!
- And any time from 12 months old, babies start to walk. It’s lovely to capture those very first steps!
And, if you wish to have more than one photoshoot during your baby’s first year, the ‘My First Year’ package, as I mentioned above, is a great value option. Find out more about the ‘My First Year’ package here.
Cake Smash Photography
Cake smashes are hugely popular and it’s easy to see why! They are such fun for your baby and the photos are colourful and full of personality!
During a cake smash portrait session, your child gets the chance to celebrate their first birthday in style. With a giant birthday cake and sat in front of a colourful backdrop accessorised to your liking, they have the chance to play, eat and even destroy their cake while I take photos!
But while cake smashes are traditionally associated with a baby turning one, they don’t have to be! Rules were made to be broken, right?!
You can book a cake smash anytime from when your baby is sitting up independently, as I explain here.
Click here for more information about my cake smash photoshoots and here to see examples in my cake smash photo gallery.
Newborn, Baby and family photography
So, as you can tell, there are lots of different options available to you if you’re looking for newborn, baby and family photography.
I’m proud to say that I am one of the longest-established newborn and baby photographers here in Dorset and that I’ve worked in this specialist genre of photography for seven years, photographing babies and children of all ages.
An investment into professional newborn, baby and family photography is one that I guarantee you will never regret. The photos will keep the memories alive and you’ll treasure them forever.
To enquire or to book a portrait session with me, please complete this contact form. I look forward to hearing from you!
Karen x
Introducing the new collection of Karen Wiltshire Photography backdrops!
If I’ve ever photographed you, your newborn baby or your family here in my photography studio in Poole, you’ll perhaps remember that I use a variety of printed floors and backdrops.
A new photography backdrop collection
Well, up until recently, I’ve always purchased printed backdrops. But, I was beginning to find it a struggle to find designs and colours that I liked.
So now, I’m incredibly excited to reveal that I have designed my very own – the Karen Wiltshire Photography collection!
In collaboration with the brilliant team at Baby Prop Shop, I have created a custom range of my very own, and I’m pleased to tell you that it’s selling really well!
Professional photographers across the UK and abroad are seemingly loving the unique designs, which I created, hand-painted and photographed myself, and are buying it to use in their own studio sessions!
Why photography backdrops?
Photography backdrops are an essential piece of kit in my work as a studio photographer. I use them interchangeably in order to create a variety of photographs during your studio session.
The fabric backdrops are used to create the appearance of a textured or coloured floor and back wall, and they come in thousands of different colours.
They are used by photographers, like me, all around the world. They are a practical and safe way to create a number of different looks for studio portrait sessions.
The photography backdrops I choose for each session depends on the look and feel of the portraits that I’m aiming to create – whether that’s an indoor maternity session, a child portrait session, a cake smash or a family portrait session.
If I’m doing a newborn session, I’ll carefully coordinate my backdrops with my props, blankets and newborn baby hats and outfits.
My clients also sometimes tell me that they want me to incorporate particular colours into their photos. If that’s the case, I’ll select a backdrop that will coordinate with the colour scheme of the room at home where they are planning to display the portraits.
The Karen Wiltshire Photography backdrop collection
The Karen Wiltshire Photography range was something I created using painted, wide wooden planks – a look that I love and is perfect for newborn and baby photography in particular.
And because of the excellent print quality, there are lots of features and textures to make the planks look as realistic as the real thing. But with the additional benefit of the photographer not having to use real wooden boards that could trap tiny fingers and toes or give off splinters.
Ask me about my new photography backdrops when you’re next in the studio!
When I set out as a professional photographer seven years ago, I never dreamt of having my own backdrop collection which would be selling internationally! But, there we are…it’s happened!
If you’re coming to me for a studio portrait session anytime soon and want to know more, be sure to ask me about my collection of photography backdrops and I’ll gladly show you the range.
I have the full collection which includes six coloured designs in my studio, and of course, I love using them in my sessions! Colour-wise, there’s everything from a whitewash colourway to a green-blue teal, through to a muted dark wood.
To view the full collection of Karen Wiltshire Photography backdrops that I’ve designed, do visit the Baby Prop Shop website.
To enquire or to book a studio portrait session with me, whether for yourself, your family or a friend, please complete this contact form. I look forward to hearing from you!
Karen x
Beautiful bluebell portrait sessions in Dorset and Hampshire
It’s one of my favourite (and busiest) times of the year again – yippee! The beautiful bluebells have begun to rear their heads and so I’ll soon be kickstarting my bluebell portrait sessions in Dorset and Hampshire.
Related reading: Bluebell woods portraits: it’s finally time!
Why hire a professional photographer for a bluebell portrait session?
Bluebells are an absolute joy to photograph, although are tricky if you don’t know how.
If you’ve ever tried to take your own photos among the bluebell woods, you’ll have realised that it’s harder than you probably imagined!
It really is a fine art balancing the delicate colours of the bluebells with the darker colours of the surrounding trees and woodland, while getting your subject and the delicate bluebells in sharp focus.
Add in the fact that there are typically low light conditions in bluebell woods, and you can begin to see why, if you’re armed with only a smartphone camera and only a basic understanding of photography – you can struggle to achieve the images like mine.
Which is why so many families every year choose to hire me and book one of my now infamous bluebell portrait sessions in Dorset or Hampshire.
As an experienced professional photographer who is equally comfortable outdoors as I am working in my photography studio, I’m literally in my element photographing families among the outdoors during springtime.
The very best bluebells in Dorset and Hampshire
Another reason to hire me for bluebell portraits is that I seek out the very best patches of bluebells; usually well off the beaten track.
My friend Jacky and I are often on the scout for new outdoor locations and so far, this year we’ve already discovered some lovely patches of emerging bluebells across Dorset and Hampshire which I can’t wait to take my clients to.
Unfortunately, my favourite spots for bluebells in recent years have become more and more popular and the poor bluebells are getting trampled on by those who don’t realise just how delicate these pretty little flowers are.
Did you know that bluebells take up to seven years to grow back after they’ve been squashed?!
If you’re planning a visit with your little ones, please do remember how easy it is to damage the flowers. When you visit, please stick to the paths as much as possible and encourage your children to do the same.
Book your bluebell portrait session today!
My outdoor bluebell portrait sessions in Dorset and Hampshire are extremely popular every single year, and always sell-out quickly.
So, if you’re wanting some gorgeous maternity, child or family portraits among the pretty bluebells this spring, like the ones I’m showing here which were all taken on location last year, then be sure to get in touch with me ASAP to secure your slot.
