maternity photos

What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot in Dorset with Karen Wiltshire Photography

What can you expect from a pregnancy photoshoot with me? Well, if you’re a mum-to-be considering a maternity session, keep reading to find out.

I'm an award-winning Dorset maternity photographer and have worked with many lovely expecting ladies over the years.

maternity photos
Beautiful baby bump

Will you choose an indoor or outdoor maternity photoshoot?

While I have a custom-designed photography studio in Poole and I love to do indoor, studio-based maternity sessions, I also adore going on location in and around Dorset with my maternity clients.

The type of pregnancy photoshoot you choose will likely be dictated by the time of year and the weather.

My outdoor maternity photoshoots are available almost all year round. It’s only in the winter that I generally don’t shoot maternity outdoors. I imagine you’d rather be in the warmth and comfort of the studio at that time of year!

Naturally, when the weather is good, my outdoor maternity sessions are very popular, and it’s clear why. Open space and a natural setting are lovely to have as a photoshoot backdrop.

maternity photos
Beach bump time

Pregnancy photoshoot portraits: Examples through the seasons

To inspire you on what’s possible in the season that you’re expecting your baby, here’s an overview of what each season offers in terms of flora and fauna.

Spring pregnancy photoshoots

Everything outdoors starts to come alive from April onwards, so if you’re expecting your baby in the spring then an outdoor pregnancy photoshoot is possible among the bluebells, daffodils or delicate blossoms. 

From May, colour flowers like azaleas and rhododendrons also start to bloom and the greenery fills out which looks wonderful in the photos.

Summer pregnancy photoshoots

Summer (hopefully) brings with it warmer weather and longer, lighter evenings. This is the time of year when I love to get out and about with maternity clients and their families either on the beach or in the local woodlands.

‘Golden hour’ in the early evenings is a great time for photos and, if we’re lucky, we can include the setting sun in the portraits.

Around May/June, wildflowers come into their own. I know of local poppy and rapeseed fields that we can visit. Slightly later, around June/July, we could seek out patches of long summer grasses.

Then, in August/September, sunflowers add some vibrant colour and drama to outdoor maternity portraits. Lavender is lovely in Summer too, although sadly there aren’t any lavender fields in Dorset. Since we have so much else to enjoy though, let’s not worry about that!

Related reading: How to stay cool when pregnant in the summer

Dorset maternity photographer
Maternity sunset

Autumn pregnancy photoshoots

Autumn is a beautiful time for outdoor photos too and is probably my favourite time of year to shoot outdoors actually.

The colours are gorgeous; fiery reds, burnt oranges and bright yellows. Leaves are falling and there’s a carpet of colour on the ground. The light is also soft and warm, and the temperature is generally still pleasant so you shouldn’t feel a chill either.

I know some lovely locations in and around Poole and Bournemouth where it’s stunning in autumn time, as shown in these examples.

If you’re expecting your baby in autumn, just imagine it! This could be you!

Pregnant lady photoshoot in the new forest
Beautiful Autumnal Bump photoshoot

Winter pregnancy photoshoots

Unless we’re having a particularly mild winter, or you’re feeling brave (!), during the winter all maternity sessions are done in my photography studio in Broadstone, Poole.

Indoors, I use flattering studio lights and a variety of neutral printed backdrops to create flattering maternity portraits such as those shown here.

Pregnant lady
How serene

Other things you should know about my maternity portrait sessions

So, I hope that was useful as a guide to what you can expect from a pregnancy photoshoot throughout the seasons of the year.

If you opt for an outdoor pregnancy photoshoot, we can visit a location of your choice or I can suggest somewhere, and we can achieve a good range of photographs from just one location. 

Oh, and in case you’re wondering, I can advise you on what to wear – it’s all part of the service. I can also provide a selection of beautiful maternity photoshoot dresses. You’re welcome to pick whichever one takes your fancy and borrow it for the duration of the shoot. These are luxury designer maternity gowns that will make you feel amazing and that look stunning on everyone! 

Ready to book your outdoor pregnancy photoshoot?

I really enjoy maternity photoshoots, and just love to help excited mums-to-be in those final weeks of their pregnancy by creating beautiful portraits for them to treasure.

If you like the bump photos you see here and are expecting in the next few months, do get in touch to enquire or make a booking so that I can create the same for you!


Newborn photographer of the year

I’m Newborn Photographer of the Year 2021!

Every year the annual Societies of Photographers Convention is held in London. As I write this, I’ve just got back, and I’m exhausted!!

As ever, it was a brilliant event – a great chance to catch up with photography friends but also to find out whether my newborn photography would make the cut in their prestigious photography awards.

Well, I’m delighted to share with you that it did! I won the title of ‘Newborn Photographer of the Year’!

Newborn Photographer of the Year

These awards are entered by thousands of photographers from around the world. Let me tell you, competition is tough in every category!

Many fabulous newborn portraits are entered by some of the world’s very best baby photographers, which makes it all the more thrilling to think that I’ve now won the title!

Although I found out a few months ago that I was in the running for the Newborn Photographer of the Year, so were several other brilliant photographers.  So, you never know until the announcement during the award ceremony, whether you’ve been successful or not.

I was certainly feeling nervous as it came closer to results time. When I heard my name, I was delighted!! I was on a high for hours afterwards.

My award-winning newborn portrait

The newborn photo that I won the Newborn Photographer of the Year title with was this intimate portrait of a new mother breastfeeding. Who would have thought it?

I’m immensely proud of this photo – it’s beautiful and raw, and just perfectly natural.

 

Newborn photographer of the year

 

Judges comments

A lovely, tender moment caught between mother and baby with a fantastic monochrome conversion. This image caught the judge’s eyes straight away as it’s not something they often see in the competition, and its impact carried it through to win the category.

Shaking off the stigma around breastfeeding

I’m really keen to play a part in normalising breastfeeding and to shake off the stigma around what is an entirely natural part of motherhood.

On the plus side, I do think gradually society is changing. Women are beginning to feel more empowered about their rights as mothers, and are not hiding their breastfeeding as they once did. This can only be a positive thing.

My hope is that by winning an international photography award for one of my breastfeeding images and having this portrait seen by thousands of people (and maybe even more), it’ll help breastfeeding to become even more widely accepted.

I was really encouraged when MP Stella Creasy attended the Houses of Parliament with her sleeping newborn last year.

This led to a wider conversation about the rights and wrongs of traditionally-held views around breastfeeding. It was a triumph for all working mothers when it was announced that breastfeeding is now permitted within the House of Parliament. Slowly but surely, breastfeeding is likely to become accepted in more workplaces as a result.

Celebrating a natural part of motherhood

Breastfeeding does seem to be becoming accepted and celebrated, rather than treated as something that should remain hidden and be not talked about.

Certainly, a world where breastfeeding is welcomed and respected as a completely normal and natural part of motherhood is one that I want to live in. Do you feel the same? Let me know in the comments below.

Breastfeeding photography

I’m asked more and more often by my clients to photograph them breastfeeding their child. This is something that I am always happy to do during your baby’s newborn photoshoot. While it’s not for everyone, it is something I can offer so please don’t be afraid to ask.

Do contact me to book in for a newborn photoshoot if you’re expecting this year, and don’t forget to book as early as possible to secure your preferred date.

 

 


baby shower gift ideas

12 of the best baby shower gift ideas for new mums

If you’re looking for the perfect baby shower gift ideas for a friend or family member who’s expecting a baby, then keep reading.

I’m going to be sharing with you twelve baby shower gift ideas for new mums, plus some ideas of things to buy for the new baby too.

What to consider when buying a baby shower gift

When it comes to baby shower gifts, you can choose to give something practical for the mum or baby to use. Or, you might prefer to treat the mum-to-be to something more indulgent that’s just for them.

I’d recommend that you consider what might be most useful based on the circumstances of the family.

Baby photographer Dorset
Looking just super cute

Baby shower gift ideas for mums with older children

For example, if she’s already a mum and had a baby in the last few years, she may well have all the practical things she’s going to need for a newborn.

While crisp white baby rompers, tiny baby socks or colourful bonnets can be cute baby shower gifts, she may not need these. She’ll likely have baby clothes and other essentials that she’s stored away and hopes to re-use.

If that’s the case, why not buy something that’s more for her such as a pampering gift or a keepsake? She’ll likely appreciate this more than baby clothes when she’s feeling tired and in need of a pick-me-up.

Baby shower gift ideas for first-time mums

If she’s a first-time mum though, chances are she’d appreciate anything baby related.

There are quite a lot of things on the market these days that new parents either need or want, and which make life with a newborn baby a little easier.

You could always ask her for gift inspiration before you buy in case she has particular items in mind. Or, if you’d prefer to keep your baby shower gift as a surprise, simply choose something from my list below.

Newborn baby smiling on pink background
Super smiler

Twelve baby shower gift ideas for new mums

1. A voucher for a newborn photoshoot at KW Photography

I may be biased but I believe that one of the best gifts you could give a family who is expecting a baby is the gift of photography.

You and a group of friends could team up to buy a gift voucher from me for just £299, and this could be redeemed against my popular newborn photography service.

As one of the longest-established family photographers in Dorset, I’ve worked with more than 1300 babies and am widely considered as Bournemouth and Poole’s leading newborn photographer.

Even if your friend is not local to me here in Poole/Bournemouth area, hundreds of families choose to travel to me for their baby photo session and she could do the same. I’m regularly photographing families from across the south coast, from London and the Midlands, and even from abroad!

Related reading: How far would you travel for a baby photography session?

Photo packages start at £299. For more information about my gift vouchers, or to make a purchase, please contact me.

Pregnant lady
How serene

2. A thermal mug

Although this isn’t perhaps the most glamorous gift, it’s almost impossible for any new mum to ever get round to drinking a cup of tea when it’s freshly made.

An insulated cup would be a brilliant way to help her ensure that her drinks remain warm so that she won’t ever have to drink cold tea again!

This one, from Circular and Co, is a leakproof and reusable cup. It’s got great eco-credentials since it’s made from recycled coffee cups and will last her 10 years.

3. Help with sleep

Babies sleep a lot in the early days but it can take months, and sometimes even years, to settle a new baby into a routine that matches that of an adults.

New parents realise that disturbed sleep is par for the course with a new baby, but it can be a challenge! They will likely find Sarah Ockwell-Smith’s ‘The Gentle Sleep Book’ helpful.

It’s packed with tips and advice on how to manage frequent night waking and all things sleep-related for children up to five years old. 

Related reading: Essential newborn sleep tips for new parents

4. Milestone baby cards

These adorable milestone baby cards from JoJo Maman Bébé are just the thing for mums who want to keep a photo record of how their new baby is changing and growing throughout their first year.

The pack has 30 adorable designed cards for different baby milestones. Simply lay the baby down next to the card and take a photo – it’ll be an Instagram-worthy snap to share online with family and friends!

Related reading: Children and baby photography services

5. Baby Rockit

Another sleep-related gift, this is something I highly recommend. I even have a Baby Rockit of my own and use it in the photography studio.

It’s a portable sleep aid that helps to keep your baby asleep for longer. Something that would make a perfect gift for a soon-to-be sleep-deprived parent!

6. A luxury cashmere blanket

An alternative baby shower gift idea for new mums would be a luxury blanket from The White Company. Everything from this brand is just so nice and is of great quality.

Their cashmere baby blankets are soft and beautiful! A range of colours are available but I’d suggest that you choose a contemporary grey or neutral colour if the sex of the baby is still a surprise.

7. A swaddle blanket

Aden + Anais is another brand I love for baby items and accessories.

Their 100% cotton Jungle Jam Baby Swaddle Blankets come in a range of cute designs.

You can use them in a number of different ways – for wrapping/swaddling, as well as a burp cloth or cover if you’re breastfeeding.

In my opinion, swaddle blankets really are a must-have for new mums. Babies love to feel safe and secure, and these swaddling blankets are so versatile.

8. Resuable wipes

These Cheeky wipes are not just any old baby wipes!

They’re really handy because they’re reusable and perfect for taking out and about. They’re ideal for everyday use and, because you wash and reuse them, they’re not going to landfill so you’re helping the environment too!

9. Baby teether

This bunny-shaped baby teether is made from food-safe silicone and natural beech wood.

Its cute design and eco-friendly materials make it an ideal accessory for when the baby starts reaching the teething stage.

10. Children’s books

If you’re buying for a mum-to-be who has older children, and who already has everything she might need for the baby already, why not buy a children’s book? 

You can add a personal message inside and it’s something that no doubt would be appreciated, particularly as the child gets a little older.

Reading to children is a great way to inspire a love of books. You could buy a classic fairytale – perhaps one that you loved yourself - or introduce something brand new that you think the child may love.  

11. Local baby services and experiences

Another great baby shower gift idea is to support small local businesses and buy vouchers that can be redeemable for services like baby massage or baby yoga classes.

These are activities that the mum-to-be may wish to experience in the months after the birth, and which give her the perfect excuse to get out and about with her little one.

12. Scented wax melts

Finally, for the best wax melts in Dorset, go to Mamos Candles. Handmade by my friend Jackie, these are natural and handmade here in Poole.

A luxury burner and pack of calming wax melts would be a lovely gift for any new mum. Encourage her to take some time out for herself after the birth of her baby and she’ll love you for it!

What will you buy as a baby shower gift?

I hope that these gift ideas for new mums had given inspired you?  Let me know in the comments below what you’re planning to buy.   

Do also feel free to share any other suggestions you may have for baby shower gifts. I may just add them to this list!

Karen 


Dorset baby photographer

Essential newborn sleep tips for new parents: A free guide

Although they are adorable, there’s no denying it. Newborns are sleep thieves!

But, don’t worry – help is here! As a mum of two and a seasoned newborn, baby and family photographer, who has photographed more than 1000 babies, I’ve got lots of tried-and-tested newborn sleep tips up my sleeve.

Settling new babies is part and parcel of my job as a newborn photographer and I’m not known as a baby whisperer for nothing! So, trust me when I say that I know how to handle and settle babies and that, with my help, you’ll be getting your new baby off to sleep in no time!

Dorset Photographer based in Poole

My top tips for settling your newborn to sleep

Keep reading and you’ll discover that I’ve got lots of newborn sleep tips which will help to get even the most unsettled baby to sleep.

I’m listing three of my top ten baby sleeping hacks for new parents below, and the full list is available as a free downloadable guide. You can grab your copy by signing up here.

Many, many parents who have used my tips in the guide have since told me that they worked wonders for settling their newborn to sleep.

So, you really won’t want to miss this if you’re expecting a baby soon or already have welcomed your new bundle of joy and need some advice for settling them.

Dorset baby photographer

Newborn sleep habits

Before I get onto the newborn sleep tips, did you know that a baby can sleep for up to 18 hours per day in the first few weeks after birth?! Yep, that’s a LOT of sleep!

But some babies sleep more than others and sleep patterns will vary for a while until your baby is older and you manage to establish a sleep routine.

How much and when your newborn baby sleeps will be completely unique to them. Sleep may come in short bursts or your baby may sleep for longer periods – I’m afraid it’s the luck of the draw!

Forget about getting uninterrupted sleep through the night as a new parent. It’s to be expected that babies will wake up every few hours during the day and night as newborns to be fed. They’ll need feeding little and often.

You’ll have heard it before, but the only way to survive this disruption to your own sleep pattern is to try and get as much sleep as you can whenever the baby sleeps. Easier said than done sometimes, but it really is essential in order for you to be feeling your best.

Trying to survive on just a few hours a day won’t be fun over a long period, so always ask for help with caring for your baby if you’re in desperate need of more sleep.

Baby photos Bournemouth

Newborn sleep tips

As the following tips will highlight, there are lots of factors that may affect how long and how deeply your baby sleeps.

They can wake easily at the slightest of touches or if they feel cold. But a sleeping baby can also sleep through a fairly loud level of noise! Which leads me to the first of my tips on how to settle your newborn baby to sleep…

  1. Use white noise

Newborn babies are comforted by the sound of white noise as it mimics the sounds they heard when they were in the womb. Remember, they have been listening to the sound of your breathing, your heart beating and your body making noises for months!

For this reason, babies find it easier to settle to sleep if there is low-level white noise in the background. It’s what’s familiar to them and will comfort them enough to sleep peacefully.

In my photography studio, I use an app on my iPhone to play soothing white noise during a newborn photoshoot. There are lots of free apps available that offer this functionality. But if you don’t have the help of a white noise machine or app, make your own sounds. ‘Shushing’ (making gentle ‘shush’ sounds) will help to the baby to sleep.

2. Get the room temperature right

Another thing I do in the photography studio is ensure that the room temperature is optimised for a newborn baby.

The studio is kept at around 23 degrees because they will spend much of the newborn photo session without clothes on. But, at home, you’ll want it slightly cooler, at around 20 degrees.

Keep a room thermometer in the room where your baby is sleeping so you can keep a close eye on the temperature and adjust their clothing according to the temperature.

Babies will need to be warm enough to settle to sleep but shouldn’t be overdressed or at risk of overheating.

newborn family photographer

3. Establish a routine

By the time your baby is a few months old you will probably want to have established some kind of sleep routine. This makes it easier for your baby to recognise the signs that bedtime is approaching.

Popular rituals in a bedtime routine include a warm bath, a change of nappy and clothes, a bedtime story or lullaby, milk and a cuddle.

Be warned though, sleep is regulated by hormones and until babies are about three months old they don’t know the difference between day and night. Their bodies don’t produce the hormones cortisol and melatonin that ours do, which regulates our sleep patterns.

So, don’t get too hung up on establishing a routine in the early months – try to just go with the flow.

Download your free ‘essential sleep tips for new parents’ guide

For seven more newborn sleep tips and the full guide in a downloadable PDF format, don’t forget to sign up here to have it sent to you by email.

I hope these help! Do let me know how you get on by posting in the comments below.

Karen


Kids outdoors photographer

Outdoor family portrait sessions in Dorset’s finest wildflower meadows

The summer is my favourite time of the year and I’m so excited to now be offering outdoor family portrait sessions among some of Dorset’s finest wildflower meadows.

This year, I’ve collaborated with the lovely people at Holme for Gardens in Wareham, and have permission to use their field for outdoor lifestyle portraits.

So, naturally, I’ve been making the most of this opportunity and taking my clients there in the past week or so. It’s worked out brilliantly and all the children involved have loved having their photograph taken among the beautiful wildflowers.

Kids outdoors photographer

Outdoor wildflower portrait sessions in Dorset

Here are just some of the portraits I’ve created. Would like something similar of your family?

There is still time left in the season before the flowers lose their vibrant colours, and these outdoor portrait sessions are suitable whether you are after maternity/pregnancy photography, or child and family portraits. Contact me today to book yours.

Family photographer Poole

Natural family portraits

What I love about these sessions is that the children and families who take part are so clearly enjoying the flowers and the freedom to be able to walk among them (while being careful not to damage them, of course).

You’ll see that there are no forced smiles or static poses. The family photographs I create natural, outdoor pictures that bring the best of the outdoors into your home, and everyone has a great time in the process.

I achieve this by keeping everyone involved active and entertained throughout. The little ones, I keep occupied by encouraging them to count the wildflowers while I take their portrait. As every parent knows, distraction is the key with younger children!

As both a mum myself and an experienced child photographer, I’ve got lots of tricks like this up my sleeve to secure the perfect outdoor portrait.

family photographer near me

Dorset wildflowers are bloomin’ lovely!

Seeing the wildflowers popping up in fields, gardens and grass verges in the summer makes me really happy. And quite rightly! Who can fail to enjoy the wonderful colours and smells that these flowers create? They are simply fabulous, aren’t they?!

Every year I aim to make the most of the wildflower season. In a previous blog, I have written about how I can achieve perfect portraits in unlikely locations – take a look! It’s a behind-the-scenes insight into how I can create a stunning portrait in small spaces. A creative eye and even just a small patch of wildflowers is all I need!

Young girl smelling wildflowers in Dorset meadow

Book your wildflower portrait session today!

There are plenty of stunning flowers on display this year and they are currently in full bloom. So, don’t miss your chance to get some updated family photos taken outdoors among the beautiful wildflowers while they last!

If you’d like to book one of my outdoor family portrait sessions, get in touch as soon as possible to secure one of the last few slots I have available this summer.

And, if you haven’t already, do pay the Holme garden centre a visit! It’s a family-run business and has beautiful surroundings, a relaxing ambience, gorgeous plants to take home with you and unrivalled gardens to enjoy. I think you’ll love it!

Karen x


Baby sleeping on the beach

Outdoor newborn photography in Dorset

During the spring a couple of years ago, I took a newborn baby to a patch of bluebells in Dorset countryside. There, I did my first ever outdoor newborn photography photoshoot.

And, because I loved that session and the photos I created so much (and the baby’s parents did too!), every year since I’ve aimed to do more outdoor newborns.

This summer, I’ve tried a few new outdoor locations with newborn babies. I’ve been to the beach in Poole, and the forest and parks locally. Luckily for me, Dorset has plenty of beautiful locations to work from.

location photoshoot Poole Dorset
Newborn photographer Poole

On-location baby photography

Outdoor baby photo sessions are quickly becoming one of my favourite things to do, but they can be quite challenging.

They are weather dependent for one thing, which is why I can’t offer them as a paid-for service; they’re just a personal project for now that I organise when the mood takes me, and the weather is fine.

It’s frustrating that I can’t do more though, to be honest. I’ve certainly had lots of interest from parents wanting to book me for an outdoor newborn photo session and I love doing them. But right now, they’re just something fun and challenging for me to try out with willing families.

Anyone who knows me well should know that I’m always up for a creative challenge!

Baby sleeping on the beach

The challenges of an outdoor newborn photoshoot

Another reason why photographers don’t typically offer outdoor newborn photography is that feeding the baby during the session can be tricky, and if you have a newborn you’ll know that they need feeding regularly when they are so small.

Without the comfortable seating that I have in my photography studio, and perhaps no seating at all depending on the location, an outdoor session with a newborn can be trickier for the parents.

Plus, you also have the fact that if you’re in a public location, there’s a high chance that other people will be nearby and may want to have a nosey at what we’re up to!

That said, I always choose quiet locations for my outdoor newborn photo sessions and do them when the sun is setting. This is when places like parks and beaches are usually quieter, and it’s when the light is absolutely gorgeous!

Sunset sessions are my favourite! The golden evening light is just perfect for photoshoots!

Best newborn photographer
Baby sleeping on Poole beach

Interested in an outdoor newborn photoshoot?

If you’re expecting a baby and are interested in my newborn photography service, do get in touch.

For many years now, I’ve offered both studio photography and outdoor, on-location photography and I love the variety of my work.  Take a look at my newborn gallery to see more examples of the images I’ve created for clients.

Outdoor newborn photography sessions are limited and only available at certain times of the year. But if you’re keen to know more, be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram, as that’ll be where I announce any model calls for future outdoor newborn photoshoots.

Karen

Baby on the beach sleeping

girl in the lavender field

Putting Dorset on the map: Recent international photography award wins!

International photography award!

As well as keeping busy in my photography studio creating portraits for my clients, I like to enter photographic competitions every now and then to keep me on my toes.

Getting my photography assessed and graded is an important way for me to learn how to keep improving my portrait photography.

Of course, winning a photography award is always lovely (and I’ve won many awards in the past). But that’s honestly not what I expect when I enter.

Award-winning portrait photographer

So, imagine my surprise when I entered the RISE photography awards recently and came away with a Bronze award in the Newborn Photography category and three Silver awards; two in the Children’s Photography category and one in the Maternity Photography category.

girl in the lavender field
girl in hat wondering though a wildflower field

Best of all, I also had an image shortlisted for the Final in the Newborn category. It was selected by the judges as one of the best top 20 images from a total of 1100 entries in its category! OMG!

I was completely bowled over when I heard the news and felt very proud of myself, that’s for sure!

baby photo in awards

International photography awards

The RISE Awards are huge in the portrait photography industry.

They were founded by Australian newborn photographer Kelly Brown, who’s the very best photographer in the newborn industry in my opinion. I had the pleasure of attending one of Kelly’s photography workshops a few years ago, which I wrote about on the blog.)

The RISE international photography award is a competition open to portrait photographers all over the world.

There were over 4000 entries in total by photographers across the nine categories; maternity photography, birth photography, newborn photography, baby photography, children photography, family photography, pet/animal photography, portrait, photography, and wedding photography.

Twins photographer
award winning maternity photographer

Winning these international photography awards for my newborn, child and maternity portraits is a great personal achievement, and I hope gives you some reassurance that my work is of the highest quality.

Over the summer, I also won two Gold awards with the Societies of Photographers for my outdoor newborn portraits, so that was another highlight as well!

If you’d like to book a portrait session with me, get in touch as soon as possible to secure one of the last few slots I have available this year.  

Karen x


Smiling baby girl eating watermelon slices

Introducing my new fruit smash photoshoot!

Here at my Poole-based studio, I’ve literally done hundreds of cake smashes and still love doing them! My cake smash sessions are among the most popular of my baby photography services.

(Take a look at this video to see behind the scenes. It reveals what happens during one of my cake smash sessions. As you’ll see, there are smiles all round!)

But if you’ve been put off booking one, then perhaps you may prefer a new twist on the traditional cake smash photoshoot?

I’m now offering fruit smash sessions!

Fruit smash sessions are a fun alternative to a classic cake smash.

You’ve guessed it! I use lots of lovely, colourful fruit rather than a giant cupcake, but the concept is exactly the same.

Your baby has an absolute blast munching and scrunching their way through the delicious fruit. I capture all the fun in adorable pictures that will make a colourful addition to your walls at home.

Smiling baby girl eating watermelon slices
Photography training

On my Facebook page, I’ve shared this cute video showing a small baby sitting in a watermelon. Worth taking a look if you missed it!

The baby was so happy and loved chewing at the fruit, as your baby would do at their own fruit smash photo session! It’s a healthy snack too!

What’s involved in a fruit smash photoshoot?

A fruit smash session includes portraits of your baby before the messy fun begins! I’ll capture a variety of cute images of them sitting and playing against a colourful backdrop from my signature backdrop collection.

If the photoshoot has been organised to coincide with your baby’s first birthday, I’ll also use large wooden letters spelling out the word ‘one’ in the photos. Some children try to eat the letters! Thankfully, they’re pretty indestructible!

Older babies also welcome though as I explain in this blog about when to book a cake smash session.

fruit smash photographer
baby photographer Blandford

Then, the entertainment begins when I bring out the fruit. I’ll arrange a display of brightly coloured, fresh, seasonal fruit.

As with my traditional cake smash portrait sessions, the baby will probably love the colours and also the taste of the fruit. So, they’ll be delighted to have the chance to tuck in. They’re welcome to make as much mess as they like!

I’ll also take photographs as your child gets cleaned up afterwards. Warm water and bubbles are the order of the day and are included in every session.  Your baby can even have a fruit-filled bath! It’s another fun, sensory experience for them!

baby in Strawberry bath
cake smash photoshoot Dorset

Cake Smash or Fruit Smash photoshoot? What would you choose?

Cake smash sessions have been popular for many years now and their popularity shows no sign of slowing down! The reason is clear. It’s a messy but 100% fun-filled session that both children and parents love. The photographs are a fantastic memento.

As well as being perfect for your walls at home, the cake smash or fruit smash portraits can also be used to personalise party invitations, gift cards, photo gifts and calendars. There are so many ways you could use the photos. I’m confident that they’d make you crack a smile each time you looked at them!

Book a fruit smash photoshoot today

If a fruit smash session sounds like something you think your baby would love, get in touch today. Complete this form to secure a date for yours. I look forward to having you in the studio soon!

Karen x

fruit smash photoshoot
Baby in roll top bath

Studio Maternity photography photography

Five things to do before baby arrives: Tips for mums-to-be

If you’re expecting a baby, huge congratulations! Having a baby is life-changing, wonderful and a thrilling adventure! I’m really excited for you!

So now, with the news of your pregnancy having been announced to friends and family, you may be wondering…what’s next? What should you do first?

Well, here’s a list of five things to do before baby arrives.

Hands up, I didn’t do all of these when I was pregnant. But with the benefit of hindsight, I should have done! I highly suggest that you do at least some of these while you have the chance.

As a mum of two myself, I know how quickly those nine months do go.  Even if at several points in your pregnancy you’ll probably feel like you’ve been pregnant FOREVER, it really isn’t long. And you’ll have lots to organise before your baby is born.

I’d highly recommend that try to avoid getting so lost in the excitement that you forget to take some time out for yourself during your pregnancy! Decide now what would you like to do before baby arrives. And be sure to get it scheduled in your diary.

baby photo studio photographer

Things to do before having a baby

  1. Plan a Baby Moon

Without doubt your life will never be the same again once your baby has been born. Of course, I mean that in the best possible way. But it does mean that there won’t be much time for you and your partner initially.

Travelling across the country or to other corners of the world is unlikely to be at the top of your priority list with a baby in the family. So, plan a holiday or mini break.

Travel to a far-flung location or go on that city break that you’ve always wanted to. With a baby in tow, travel will be more complicated in the future. So, use the time you have now to tick off those travel destinations that have forever been on your wish list.

I recommend planning these ‘baby-moon’ trips for the first and second trimesters of your pregnancy rather than the third as you’ll probably be more comfortable and have a smaller baby bump to lug around.

You may also find that some airlines don’t let you travel close to your due date. Always check their policies before you book flights.

Smiling mother to be

2. Treat yourself to a pampering session or spa break

Of course, you should ensure to eat well, drink plenty of water and rest regularly during your pregnancy. But you also could indulge in a spot of relaxation and pampering time too! After all, you’re growing a little person in there. You need to look after yourself.

A home pampering session could involve a relaxing soak in a hot bath, listening to your favourite music. Why not invest in some soft fluffy towels and luxury toiletries to enhance the experience, hey? Or you could enjoy a regular night in alone. Watching your favourite TV show or reading your favourite book or magazine uninterrupted is pure bliss!

Or, take it up a notch and enjoy a spa day with your partner or girlfriends. Spa days are a popular way to rejuvenate as you get to spend quality time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and come out with glowing skin and feeling like a chilled-out goddess!

A pregnancy massage could also really help with aches and pains in your back, ease sore muscles and reduce tension.  Luckily, here in Dorset and neighbouring Hampshire, we have some amazing hotels with fantastic spa facilities such as Chewton Glen and Rhinefield House. Both highly recommended!

Dorset studio photographer

3. Book a maternity photoshoot

If maternity photography was popular around the time I was pregnant with my own children, I would have loved to have had some photos taken. And this is something that I hear from a lot of mums who come into my photography studio with their babies.

The thing is, unless you have another child, you may not ever get the chance again to capture your pregnancy in photographs. What a shame to potentially miss out on this opportunity!

Both you and your child will love to look back on photographs of your beautiful body in those final stages of your pregnancy, in years to come!

Related reading: What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot

Location maternity photography session

I recommend that if you would like me to capture your growing baby bump in photos, to book in as soon as possible after your 20-week scan when you know your expected due date. Do also book in for a newborn photoshoot at that time as well.

That way, we can confirm the slot in my diary, and you won’t run the risk of being too late to book. As your due day approaches, you’ll be glad you sorted it early as it’ll be one less thing to think about.

The beautiful maternity pictures I will create will make you look and feel fabulous. Did you know that I’m an award-winning maternity photographer?

I have a stunning collection of designer maternity gowns for you to choose from, or we can opt for simple photos – the session is completely bespoke to you.

Your maternity photoshoot can also be done in my studio here in Poole, near Bournemouth, Dorset. Or, we can venture outdoors to your favourite local location, whatever the season.

Studio Maternity photography photography

4. Host a Baby Shower

Baby showers are really popular these days as a way of celebrating your unborn baby, so I couldn’t leave this off my list of things to do before baby arrives, could I?

Friends and family of the mum-to-be get together to share gifts and well-wishes, and it’s a great excuse to have some quality time with your besties before your baby arrives.

Usually, a friend will organise a baby shower for you, sometimes as a surprise. But if you definitely would like one, be sure to let them know. A baby shower is a fun occasion which usually includes baby-themed games and party food, so will take some organising. Ideally, don’t hold it too close to your due date – babies can sometimes arrive weeks early!

Sleeping baby cuddled up with toy bunny rabbit

5. Get lots of sleep if you can

A final suggestion in my list of things to do before baby arrives is to sleep! I know it’s easier said than done as having a big baby bump towards the end of your pregnancy can make sleep more difficult. But, once you are on your maternity leave especially, try to resist the urge to keep busy or clean the house!

The urge to ‘nest’ can become overwhelming in the final stages of your pregnancy but leave the housework if you can. Rest your body and take the chance now to get as much shut-eye as possible. Sleep in the daytime if you can and get early nights.

I hate to break it to you, but you won’t be getting much sleep in the initial days and weeks after your baby is born. Believe me, a tired, burnt-out new mum will find it so much harder when the little one arrives than a mum who’s rested, relaxed and in tip-top shape on the big day.

Newborn baby photographer Poole

Which of these will you find time for?

I hope this list of things to do before baby arrives has been useful? Let me know which ones you hope to do in the comments section below.

Good luck with your pregnancy and I hope to see you in my photography studio soon! If you’re interested in booking in with me for maternity photos or newborn photos, please get in touch by completing this form.

Karen x