Is it too late for my Newborn photos?
Is my baby too old for newborn photos?
The current lockdown situation in the UK doesn’t stop baby’s being born. They arrive whatever the situation! Obviously its not possible to venture out and have baby photos done right now, with all non-essential businesses being closed.
The question I’m getting asked a lot at the moment, ” is my baby going to be too old for sleepy newborn photos”.
My answer is always the same. We can definitely create beautiful newborn style photos with babies that are more than a few days old. Infact they can be 12-13 weeks old and still get sleepy newborn photos, it just takes a little forward planning.
How to prepare for the session.
There are a few ways you can help prepare for an older newborn photo session.
- Book the session time to fit in around normal nap times. From about 6 weeks baby start to fall into a rhythm with naps, this means you have a better idea when your baby is most likely to be sleepy.
- Have lots of awake time before the session. Its not always possible especially if you have a long journey to make to get to the studio, but try to have some awake fun time before the session.
- Babies sleep best on a full tummy. Bring milk to the session to fill those tummys and help make them sleepy. If you use a dummy bring that too as it can help to settle baby.
- Dress baby in something easy to take off like a baby grow or vest. This makes it easier to undress them if they are sleepy on arrival.
- Last but not least allow time, time to relax and really enjoy the photoshoot. The session can take an hour or it could take 3 hours, it just depends on the baby on the day.
What to expect during the session.
Whether your baby is a few weeks old or a few months old you can expect a fun, relaxed and stress free photoshoot. I have over 9 years of experience with newborns and have photographed well over a thousand now.
So expect to arrive at the studio, sit in comfortable surroundings drink tea and relax whilst I photograph your adorable baby. I have lots of tricks up my sleeve to ensure we get great photos for you to cherish.
There will be plenty of time to capture those important memories, please stay safe and enjoy the time with your new family. When the time is right, get in touch and we can book that all-important photoshoot.
Bye for now
Karen x
Siblings and Newborns-What to expect during your photoshoot.
Can the rest of my children come to the newborn session?
I’m experienced newborn photographer and a mum of two myself. I know that one of the most important photos parents want from the newborn photoshoot is the siblings and newborns together. I really understand that its the most important photo of the whole session for parents, often topping the family photo.
So yes, absolutely do bring the other children to the session. At the newborn photoshoot booking we can discuss the best way to organise the photo session to include the siblings.
In an ideal world, your toddler/child will sit nicely, carefully cradling the precious new bundle and smile adoringly at the camera. Oh if only, my job would be made so easy!
Younger children especially, react differently to the changes when a new baby arrives. Some love their new sibling others can’t even bear to be near the new baby. On the whole most toddlers just too busy and mostly ignore the new arrival. All of these traits can make it quite tricky to get the siblings and newborns together for the sibling photo.
I have years of experience so I do have a few tricks up my sleeve to help get those all-important photos of the kids together.
There are also a few things that you could do at home to help the session go more smoothly.
Tips for a smooth session.
- If they are old enough then get them used to cuddling the baby. In a safe way either on your lap or in the corner or the sofa with your assistance.
- Try to mention you are coming to visit Karen and shes going to take some photos so its not a total shock when they arrive at the studio.
- Get them used to having photos taken with the baby and ask them to smile.
- Make sure the older children aren’t tired or hungry or both at the time the session is booked for.
- Bring the outfit you’d like them to wear to keep it clean until they need to wear it. Avoid bright colours, patterns and pictures if possible.
- Bring a favourite toy or cuddly to keep them entertained during the session.
- Bribery if all else fails. Try not to make it chocolate though , it can get messy with a mouth full of chocolate.
- Finally don’t stress about the session, I have lots of tricks to help get those all-important memories.
Siblings and Newborns
There are lots of ways to get your children in the photo for the important siblings and newborns together. But if a toddler really doesn’t want to join in then we can use the magic of photoshop to get them together.
Most newborn photoshoot sessions are during the week so if you have a child at school don’t worry, we can split the session. It is possible to do the newborn part of the session, come back after school, and do the family and sibling shots.
Same goes for toddlers, if you think they may struggle to cope with staying in one place for a few hours then have a chat with me and we can work out the best way to get the photos you want in the most stress free way.
Hope this give you some hints and tips on how a newborn photosession works with siblings whatever their age. if you’d like more info then please drop me message.
Bye for now 🙂
Karen x
Shop local this Christmas
Christmas shopping, love it or loathe it?
If you are anything like me then the Amazon delivery man is making daily visits to your door with Christmas pressies. That started me thinking that as a small business myself I really ought to try and shop local and visit those local independent retailers and makers.
Here are a few of my favourites I found on my travels.
I first came across the Attic store many years ago when they were an online based store trading mainly on “Not on the high street” and I loved their quirky crochet toys and gifts. Well, now you can visit either of their beautiful gift stores located in Broadstone and Westbourne. Both shops have something for everyone and lots of items that can be personalised making the perfect Christmas gift.
My faves are the personalised jewellery , chose your item and they will put it on a personalised card with a special message. So much nicer and thoughtful than the normal amazon delivery 😉
Lytchett Bay Soaps
Continuing the shop local ethos we have include this great new small business, free postage and packing over £18 or if you are local enough then its free delivery within 3 miles. That’s a win win to me its local but I can order online and the lovely Liz will drop the soaps off to me .
Looking on the website you are literally spoilt for choice , you can go for a best seller like “storm freya” or make up a super gift box as a perfect present.
Great news too is that most of the products are vegan and plastic free.
Cherry Picked Hampers
Theres something supremely christmassy about giving and receiving a hamper full of wonderful local sourced goodies. Over at Cherry picked hampers they have a wonderful selection of hampers for every occasion, the Christmas hampers look extra yummy. This fab local business ticks the local box by sourcing all their produce from Dorset, making it the perfect gift for family and friends.
Walford Mill Wimborne
Walford Mill is a unique centre for makers and artists, they offer a great range of individual items ranging from ceramics to jewellery and cards in the shop. The current maker exhibition is all about Christmas and there are lots of pop-up artists and makers exhibiting during December making it an ideal place to get those unique and unusual gifts.
The Rhubarb Candle Company
Everybody loves candles at Christmas and I just love this local candle making company. The candles are hand poured and made using soy and not the nasty paraffin wax. Very tempted to get the Christmas tree, Spiced Orange or Gingerbread perfumed candle to make the house smell just oh so christmassy. You can order on the website, pick up at a local gift fair or collect from them in person.
Hope you find that ideal gift for your loved ones, don’t forget that you can purchase a KW Photography gift voucher and keep those memories alive forever.
Bye for now
Karen x
Top 5 places to visit santa in Dorset
Yay, it’s Christmas time.
It’s that time of year again, the excitement is mounting and the kids are getting excited beyond belief that Santa is coming soon. Visit Santa and see the big man himself in person is an absolute must for the little ones, so here are my top 5 places locally to see Santa.
Stewarts garden centre
Broomhill Garden Centre, Wimborne, or Christchurch Garden Centre, Christchurch, Dorset .Both sites have Santa in residence it’s magic how he transports himself 😉 Meet the elves and then Santa himself in his winter wonderland.
The kids get a gift bag and an age appropriate toy. Stewarts is a lovely setting with lots to see and a cafe with good food.
Make sure you booking advance as Santa gets super busy at both sites .
Swanage railway
I always love the nostalgia of the swanage railway and its always been a firm favourite with my kids to board the Santa Special.
Again, its very popular but there are slots left to book a ticket for the hour long round trip on the special santa train. Grown ups get a mince pie and the kids get to meet Santa and receive a gift .
Upton Country Park
Upton Country Park is one of my favourite places to visit, and if you book a location photo session with me then we are most likely to visit the park because it’s such a stunning location.
Each year the park just gets better , this year is no exception with the arrival of Santa and his Elves. Not only do you get to meet the main man but you also get to see his owls and donkeys ( reindeer stayed at home this year ). The little ones get an age appropriate wrapped gift and a printed photo with Santa to take away. Enjoy a visit to Santa, take the kids to the new adventure play park and grown ups get a free cuppa included in the ticket price.
Open weekends and school holidays, pre booking is advisable.
Farmer Palmers
Locals and visitors to Dorset both love Farmer Palmers for a super fun day out with the kids. So with that in mind visit Santa visiting the farm just makes it even better.
Santa at Farmer Palmers is one of the few places locally you don’t need to pre book. Those clever Elves have a “book on the day” system so you don’t need to wait in a queue but I’d still recommend getting to the farm early to get your slot.
Santa is in residence on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and at the weekends too. Best of all Santa is happy to pose for a selfie or two at no extra charge ! Don’t forget your camera 😉
The Ark Poole Park
The Ark are offering a crafty activity to kick off the festivities for the kids this December. The children get to make reindeer food to sprinkle on Christmas Eve, make a Christmas decoration and write a letter to Santa. Then you are all set to meet the big man himself and receive a gift. Open until the 24th Dec pop over to the Ark for some festive fun.
Hope you enjoy meeting Father Christmas over the festive season. If like me you are wondering what on earth to buy the family and friends for Christmas then why not get a KW Photography gift voucher? That way you can enjoy your photos all year round.
Bye for now
Karen x
Best Christmas tree shopping in Dorset
Christmas tree time
Yay It’s that time of year again, Halloween is a distant memory and the kids are nagging to put the Christmas tree up….Now!
I do try to hold out for December before getting into the festive spirit if the kids will let me. However the one essential item, the Real Christmas tree needs to be sourced and wrestled into the car before Christmas can really get started.
I have been busy asking my photography clients and friends where they would recommend shopping this year for the perfect tree. Here are the top places that have been recommended to get that all-important Christmas Tree.
Moors Valley Country park.
Open 10am to 4pm daily for tree sales, from the 1st to the 16th Dec (or until stocks last).
Trees range from 4ft to 8ft depending on the type you choose , Traditional Norway Spruce or non drop Nordmann Fir.
Why not make a day of it and have some fun in the park with the kids before buying that all important Christmas tree. No time to play, then there is no car charge if you just want to buy a tree and go.
Moors Valley is a forestry commission site, the trees are felled and replanted responsibly meaning there will be Christmas trees for many generations for come.
Brothers farm
Open from Sat 30th Nov
Dorset grown Nordman Fir from the Cranborne Estate.
New kids on the block are the Benson Brothers, I have been following the transformation of their Blueberry PYO with lots of interest over on Instagram and just love this pairs enthusiasm and ethics.
Their moto this christmas is “Christmas is for giving”, so when buying your tree you get to make your very own christmas deccy ( kids will love it) and also make one for Poole Hospital staff as a special thank you for their dedication.
Why not pop along grab a warming cuppa Organic coffee and a homemade mince pie before wrestling the tree in the car.
Trinity St Trees
Available in Dorchester and Weymouth have a great selection and long opening hours. Open till 8pm in Dorchester and 6pm in Weymouth.
This year is their 30th Birthday and to celebrate they are gifting baby potted Christmas trees with every tree purchased. Fab fun for the kids to try their hand at decorating , and if cared for will last for years to come. Pop over to their website to see just what goes into making the perfect shaped tree.
New Park
Situated in Brockenhurst, the heart of the New Forest New Park is another popular forestry commission site. Open from the 29th to 18th Dec and offering Spruce and Fir trees from 4-8ft.
Why not head the beautiful New Forest for a breath of fresh air, pub lunch and spot of Christmas tree shopping. The kids will love seeing some local wildlife. There are plenty of pony’s, cattle and deer roaming freely in the forest.
Here are my top places for the best tree hunting , good luck with the search for the perfect tree. I have been persuaded to put my tree up on the 1st of Dec so i think im going to head over to Brothers Farm to pick mine up.
Dont forget if you are looking for gift vouchers then check out my top 10 here.
My own gift vouchers make the perfect gift that lasts a lifetime .
Bye for now and happy tree hunting
Karen
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.
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!
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!
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
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.
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.
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!
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
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.
Things to do before having a baby
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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.
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!
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
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.
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!
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.
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
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
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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!
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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
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.
