How to stay cool when pregnant in the summer
If you’re pregnant in the summer, like I was when I carried my daughter Lizzie, and are struggling to cope with the current warm weather conditions, this week’s blog is for you! I’m sharing my top tips on how to stay cool when pregnant in the summer, which I hope you’ll find useful.
The challenge of a summer pregnancy
In the final months of pregnancy, you are likely to be a vision of health. And probably gets lots of compliments from friends and family about your pregnancy ‘glow’. But inside, you may be feeling far from attractive!
I know this from experience. And it’s what my pregnant clients tell me when they come to me for their maternity photoshoots. In the final weeks of their pregnancies, women like you often feel heavy, tired and exhausted. And warmer conditions, in the summer months, only make it even more difficult to remain comfortable. Knowing how to stay cool when pregnant is a common challenge!
You’re naturally hotter than normal when you’re pregnant anyway thanks to all the extra blood circulating around your system. And you’re carrying the extra weight of a growing baby which is undeniably tough work!
Yep, being pregnant in the summer months can be tough. So I do feel for you pregnant ladies!
How to stay cool when pregnant in the summer
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Avoid being in the direct sunlight
Sit under a parasol if out in the garden or on the beach. Sitting in the shade will help you to keep your cool.
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Venture outside only in the mornings or late afternoons
Avoid the 11am-3pm window when the sun is at its strongest if you can. I love venturing out with my maternity clients in the early evening to capture portraits in the ‘golden hours’ before sunset (see some examples in my maternity gallery here) – this is a great time of the day to be outdoors. When indoors, open the windows and close the curtains to prevent the rooms from getting too warm.
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Listen to your body
When in the sun, keep strenuous activities to a minimum. Light walking is fine but listen to your body. If you need to, stop and rest regularly. Put your feet up whenever you can to minimise swelling, and take short naps if you get the opportunity.
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Use fans or water sprays to keep cool
These are really handy since they fit in your handbag and can be used wherever you are – whether in the car, at home or out and about. Use in conjunction with the air conditioning system in your car if you’re out on the road or find yourself stuck in traffic. I know that lots of mums-to-be are at work, so fingers crossed you have air con in the office! If not, ask for a fan.
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Take a dip!
Better still, dip your feet in a paddling pool or the sea. Or run your wrists under a cold tap for instant refreshment! I had terribly swollen feet in the last couple of months of pregnancy and the only thing that fitted on my feet were flipflops. I worked in an office at the time so no heels for me!
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Stay hydrated
You need to drink more water when pregnant anyway, but this is even more important when it’s hot outside. Aim to drink a glass of water every hour to keep your fluid levels topped up and your body temperature regulated. Not drinking enough water isn’t good for you or the baby, and can leave you feeling dizzy and tired. Get refreshment from water-based ice lollies and get creative with fresh smoothies and alcohol-free ‘mocktails’, if you are bored of drinking water!
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Wear light cotton layers
I’d recommend light-coloured cotton or linen fabrics and a large-rimmed hat in the sun. Maxi dresses cover a multitude of sins and look stylish at the same time. And if you are prepared to strip down to a maternity swimming costume, just keep covered up with a sarong to minimise the amount of skin that is exposed to the direct sunlight.
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Keep the suncream topped up
This goes without saying but always use a suncream that is at least SPF15. And don’t miss those easy-to-forget areas such as the tops of your feet, ears and the backs of your hands.
9. Lay down and put your feet up!
Honestly, this is my top tip. If all of the above don’t help, simply try to rest. Nesting is overrated! You need to rest to prepare for the big event, so stop cleaning the house and put your feet up!
Those are my tips on how to stay cool when pregnant. What are yours?
Please do share your best tips on how to stay cool when pregnant in the summer in the comments below.
And if you’re in the final stages of your pregnancy and would like to consider a maternity photoshoot with me – either in my photography studio or on-location at either your favourite park, woodland or on the beach, contact me today to book.
I’m available on 07749 270431 or please complete this contact form.
Karen x
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.
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.
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
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!
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.
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!
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 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.
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.
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
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
Picnic Time, don't forget your teddy bear
July is “National Picnic Month”
The whole month of July is National Picnic Month, the weather will hopefully warm up and we can all head outdoors. As a family photographer i love the long summer evenings for photoshoots and picnics.
The schools finish for summer at the end of the month (I know 2020 is a bit different) what better way to celebrate summer than a picnic. Here in Dorset, we are truly spoilt by our wide-open spaces.
The Local parks, forests and beaches are beckoning, even the perfect spot in the garden makes a great picnic spot. Kids love heading out to breathe in the fresh air and run around. They can run around and enjoy the sunshine whilst you get to relax on the picnic blanket sipping something chilled and bubbly.
Best Local Picnic Spots
Whether you are local or visiting the area its always great to get the lowdown on some great venues for picnics.
Picnics can be anything from a quick stop on the way to the park to grab some prepacked food or a full-on cream tea complete with Pimms. Either way, the kids will love just being outside.
Here some of my favourite local picnic places.
This beautiful place really does have it all. At Upton Country Park there is so much open space over the site that you can enjoy a picnic and a game of rounders almost anywhere on the site. Enjoy the peace on the newly opened meadows or head to the shoreline and take in the views of Poole harbour. The front lawn of the house is perfect for picnics, learning to ride bikes and football. There’s plenty of toilets and the cafe and ice cream kiosk are re-opening. As a Family photographer Upton Country Park is also my favourite place to hold sessions. The car park is open 9 am-9 pm in the summer and parking charges apply.
Set over 110 acres of parkland, Poole park is open all year round. You have everything from crazy golf to two large play areas to amuse the kids. You can try your hand at dingy sailing on the saltwater lagoon or feed the ducks and swans on the boating lake. Its a fab place to take the family for a picnic and enjoy the Summer sun. Parking charges apply.
Moors Valley is a hugely popular place for families of all ages. It’s a great place to spend the day and because it’s so popular its best to head out first thing and take a picnic. It’s easy to fill the day in the adventure play areas or on the play trail and come away safe in the knowledge the kids will be well and truly worn out. Parking charges apply.
Teddy bears picnic
Children just love to take their favourite stuffed toy out to play. Whether its a battered teddy or a Disney character it doesn’t matter. By bringing your kids “cuddly friend” along it makes the picnic so much more fun. In-fact why not take teddy along to your family photo shoot and we can create a special teddy bears picnic.
As a family and children’s photographer, I just love the storytelling interaction when kids use their imagination in play. Sometimes these are the best photos because they are so relaxed.
Let me know your favourite spots for a picnic, I love to explore new places too.
Why not join me for a family photoshoot bring teddy and a picnic, and just let the magic unfold.
Oh and don’t forget Teddy!
Bye for now
Karen x
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
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
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.
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!
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.
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
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
