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
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
Is Newborn photography worth it?
So you’ve found out you are expecting a baby! Firstly congratulations, I bet you are super excited to meet your new arrival. Or maybe your precious bundle of joy has already arrived and your family is begging to see some photos.
You may have decided you’d like to capture those early days with some beautiful professional photos and you are searching google for a newborn photographer.
After a bit of research, you might have found a few prices. I bet you are thinking with everything else you have to get ready for the new baby “is newborn photography really worth it.”
Well, I’m here to tell you why I think it’s worth it, then I’ll leave it up to you to decide if you think it really is.
Have you ever wished for LESS photos of someone you love?
I’ve got to be honest with you, I’ve photographed over a thousand newborns in my 10 years plus as a baby photographer. I’ve met so many families but I have never heard a new parent say ” I wish I had less photos of my baby” Or “I wish I didn’t have so many photos of my family when I was growing up”. It’s the complete opposite, in reality, we can never have too many memories of our nearest and dearest.
Yes I know we are all attached to our camera phones and snap away constantly but, and it’s a big BUT how many of those phone photos are hanging on your wall? Or worst still are you sure they are backed up to the cloud or would you lose every moment if your phone died?
They are only TINY for such a short amount of time!
Oh I know it’s such a cliche, and you will hear it so often over the years but it’s so so true. A newborn baby grows fast, they change so much in the first few weeks. And they don’t stop growing either! We have just bought my son his first car and I still think of him as my baby!
Being a new parent is super tough! You are exhausted and life is mainly midwife appointments and health visitor visits. Then the family arrives on mass to welcome the new baby, Believe me, you’ll barely get a moment to think, and you can forget sleep! Life is a blur of feeding, nappy changes, quick naps, and eating dinner one-handed whilst feeding a baby.
“Cant I just take some photos myself?”
Yes, of course, you can and you will! You’ll take thousands of snaps on your phone. In fact, your iPhone will be red hot from the almost constant use. Your baby will be the most photographed baby ever. The whole family will take photos and lots of them, all those memories created will be so precious to you. Remember to back them up. The love you feel for your new baby is endless.
The thing is, will you exist in those photos, will you get a family photo altogether? I know from experience it’s like I don’t exist when my kids were small. I have photos of them and photos of them together and even with their Dad, only a handful with me in them. Those family photos are the most precious to me.
“But I just gave birth, I feel horrible”
I hear you, every new mum feels the same! Sleepless nights don’t fit well with a beauty regime. The thought of having your photo taken might send you into a panic! My job is you make you feel and look amazing, to capture the love you have for your new baby. Every new parent radiates love, and it’s a joy to watch. Being a new parent is such a joyful and emotional time.
I’m here to help you capture that special time and preserve it forever in something tangible. A photograph really is a time machine, it will take you back to that special moment. The connection between you, the deep affection, and that special bond.
Photographs as Fine Art and Wall Decor.
We live in a modern digital age, we all have photos on our phones but we rarely ever print them. We are so used to scrolling through them, whizzing through snaps of a nice dinner or a night out, and mixed into that camera roll are our most precious memories of our children. I don’t remember seeing too many snaps of a long-forgotten dinner in the precious photo album my mum kept.
The next generation, your children, really does deserve to have their memories preserved, printed, and seen. Not lost on a phone or a hard drive somewhere. What happens when technology changes and like VHS tapes you can’t play them anymore. Print those photos, make wall art from those memories and enjoy those moments forever.
So is newborn photography worth it?
Well, I think newborn photography is SO worth it. It’s worth the extra effort it takes to get dressed out of your PJ’s, put a bit of makeup on, and then making it out the door on time. Not forgetting the battle to get your toddler ready and in the car without forgetting something. All that said, a newborn photoshoot is still worth the effort.
The 3 hours you’ll spend having your newborn photoshoot will give you a lifetime of joy and pleasure. Every time you look at those photos on the wall you’ll remember just how teeny tiny your baby was and how much love you have for that child. I think those photographs are priceless.
Covid 19 has kept us all apart, so many families have missed key events in each other’s lives. It’s important to remember a moment lasts for seconds but a photograph lasts forever.
Want more info on a newborn photoshoot?
I’d love to hear from you and answer any questions you may have about a newborn photoshoot, just contact me here You can also find all the information you need here
Bye for now
Karen x
Beach Maternity Photoshoot
Beach Maternity Photoshoot
Are you looking to capture your beautiful bump with a beach maternity photoshoot and create some beautiful photos?
Well, whether you are pregnant now and ready for a photoshoot or just planning ahead ( love organised people ) you’ve certainly come to the right place. It’s no secret maternity photos are one of my favourite sessions, especially if we can combine the photoshoot with a magnificent Sunset! Where better than a beach maternity photoshoot to get fantastic sunset photos.
I love all the wonderful locations we have here in Dorset, but the beach maternity photoshoots, especially in the summer are amazing. Sandy toes in the water, beautiful dress, suntanned bump what could be better?
Here are some hints and tips to help your beach maternity session go to plan.
What to wear
When you book a maternity session with me, we can discuss the kind of photos you are hoping for. I have a great selection of designer maternity dresses available for you to use and most are suited to the Beach. If you prefer to wear your own dresses then Asos is a great site for beach type maternity dresses for that relaxed floaty Boho look. Pale, pastel colours look great on the beach and white can look fab against the sand and waves. The beach in the summer can be busy so if you want to change then be aware you may have to shimmy inside a blanket to change on the beach, especially out of hours when the toilets facilities will be closed.
Related reading: What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot
Time of Day
My absolute favourite time of day for any location photoshoot would be the “golden hour “. At the end of the day, the light is just sublime. We could do sunrise but that would take some dedications from both of us to be at the beach for 4.30 am. 🙂 So the golden hour is probably best! That last hour or so before sunset has just the most the beautiful soft light. We all love that golden glow in photos and really is super flattering to us ladies. We can make the most of the golden light and hopefully get some great sunset photos too. I can’t stress enough how important the right light is for the photos, sunset can be late in the summer so Beach sessions tend to be between 7-9 pm to make the most of the light.
Can I bring my partner?
Absolutely! 100% yes! Dads-to-be are just as excited about the new arrival and often get a little overlooked so yes bring him along. We can include him in as many photos as you like. A simple pale coloured shirt with shorts or trousers will compliment you perfectly and look great in the photos. Dads love the special time with you and the bump, sometimes they can get a bit forgotten.
Can I bring my other children?
Oh yes, of course, you can! I just love to capture the older children at maternity sessions. They are super excited too about the arrival of their new brother or sister. If we are going for a sunset shoot then remember to get the little ones to have a nap in the afternoon so they make it into the evening.
What stage in my pregnancy is best for photos?
Oh, this really is a good question, and it really is different for everyone. I’ve had some ladies with tiny bumps at 38 weeks and others completely fed up and “popped” by 30 weeks. Generally, I recommend booking a session between 28 and 36 weeks. So before you have gotten too tired and fed up and still feel like you are “blooming”. That way you will look back on the photos in awe of your bump and still be able to make it back to the car having gotten your steps in on the beach. Walking in the sand can be fairly tiring when not pregnant, so add pregnancy into the mixed and you could be exhausted if later on in your pregnancy.
How do I book?
Well booking your beach maternity photoshoot couldn’t really be any simpler, check out my maternity booking information here
My maternity sessions are currently discounted, so grab an absolute bargain.
Just drop me a line with your due date and the type of maternity session you’d like and we can go from there. I can’t wait to hear from you and get some great bump photos for you.
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
A milk dress maternity photoshoot!
Milk Dress Photoshoot
I’m often coming up with ideas for creative portraits; some I don’t do anything about, others I get a little bit obsessed with and decide to give it a go. This milk dress photoshoot was one of those obsessions!
The ‘Milk dress’
Case in point. Last year I saw the most amazing ‘milk dress photoshoot’ “pinup” style photos from a great photographer called Jaroslav Wieczorkiewicz.
Wow! His work is just inspirational and brilliantly done.
My creative mind started working. I wondered if I could produce a milk dress maternity image without wrecking the whole photography studio too much!
Luckily, it wasn’t too hard to find a willing victim (I mean model, ha ha) who was happy for me to give it a go.
So armed with eight litres of milk and a big roll of plastic sheeting, I decided to give try out a milk dress photoshoot with the help of my photographer friend Jacky.
Preparing the photography studio
I really didn’t want to let any of the milk I was going to be using during the photoshoot to hit the floor.
That would have been a nightmare to clean up afterwards, and the smell would have been just horrible! So, as you can see, we covered everything!
I did warm the milk but only a tad, as I’d been told that warm milk is a little more translucent than cold milk. And I really needed the milk to cover my model Lindsay’s body to achieve the effect I was after.
Milk throwing!
We tried a few milk throwing/pouring techniques. But, to be honest, for the milk skirt splashes (which you can see below), it really was a case of just chucking it! No finesse was needed. The goal was simply to hit the target (poor Lindsay!).
The top half was more tricky. In order to create the final ‘dress’, we needed the milk to run in a certain way and not spread too much as it ran down the body.
In the end, it took roughly 500 photos to have enough to piece together the dress bit by bit. The splash skirt ones were my personal fave!
Huge thanks to Lindsay
Jacky and I worked as quickly as possible but it soon got a bit cold for my poor model despite the central heating being on.
I think Lindsay deserved a medal for braving the cold milk at 30 weeks pregnant (yes, doesn’t she look amazing for 30 weeks!)
We all had a lot of fun trying out the milk dress technique. Lindsay was a great sport for putting up with us and all the milk being thrown at her naked body.
It probably wasn’t the most enjoyable experience she has ever had. And I think her face in this photo says it all really!
Creating the milk dress
After the studio cleanup, and armed with my 500 photos of a milk-covered model, I set about the task of piecing it all together in my photo editing software, Photoshop.
Boy, how I had underestimated this part of the process!
It’s safe to say that my photoshop skills were tested to the limit with this portrait.
I normally use Photoshop to enhance a photo, not completely manipulate it. And being self-taught, it took a little research into areas of Photoshop that I don’t normally use. But after several hours I got there.
I had lots of fun throwing milk and a few hair-pulling moments in Photoshop, but I’m pleased with the end result and hope Lindsay loves it too.
What do you think? Do please let me know in the comment below.
I’m hoping to do a few more creative photoshoots over the coming months so look out for those on the blog soon.
Maternity photoshoots at KW Photography
I just love doing maternity photo sessions. So if you’re expecting then please take a look at my maternity photo gallery and get in touch to book a session.
There won’t be any need for you to be subjected to the milk throwing, like Lindsay was. My normal maternity photoshoots are far more conventional!
But they do make you feel and look amazing and are a great way to celebrate this special time in your life before your new baby arrives.
Karen x
Amazing Birth photography
Birth photography: A birth story in photographs.
Photography for me has always been about capturing the moment; that special smile, the cutest look, or the best pout ever. I get plenty of opportunities with all the babies, toddlers, and children that pass through my photography studio in Poole.
Once in a while, you get the chance to be a witness to something truly magical and special. On Friday 30th September, I was asked to photograph a birth.
Now, this was not really how I’d planned to spend my Friday. In fact, I was due to photograph a beautiful seven-day-old baby girl in the studio. However, I was a stand-in photographer for another local photographer who was due to cover a birth. Yup, you guessed it, I got lucky and the call came to me!
So I got the first message the night before. Labour was starting so I jumped into action, packed my camera, made sure my batteries were charged, and formatted my memory cards. I was so excited I could barely sleep! I kept waiting for the text to arrive during the night, but the baby was having other ideas and keeping us waiting.
Morning arrived and, with it, all the usual rush to get the kids to school, bags packed, school lunches made and rush hour traffic. So the imminent birth was pushed to the back of my mind.
Perfect timing, 9.30 I was called into action; “Come now, the baby is on its way.”
I dashed to Lilliput, near Sandbanks in Poole, found the house and let myself in.
The scene was so calm, candles flickering and gentle music playing. I slipped quietly in, set my camera to silent and got to work.
My aim was to document this amazing day for the parents, not get in the way nor intrude their intimate, precious time. As a Mum myself, I know how “in the zone” you are giving birth. The mix of emotions is immense. From total panic and fear to a sense of calm and, finally, elation when your baby is born.
The labour progressed pretty quickly and I was sure delivery was going to happen soon. This was the second birth I’ve photographed and both have been at home with no pain relief; what amazing strong mothers they are!
At 13.11pm on Friday 30th September Carrie gave birth. I’m in total awe of her will and strength of character managing to give birth exactly how she had planned, at home in the birthing pool.
I couldn’t wait to see if it was a boy or girl. Daddy announced a healthy baby boy!
Congratulations Carrie and Patrick on the birth of your gorgeous new baby boy! I really enjoyed the opportunity to try out birth photography again and I can’t wait to see you all in the studio for a newborn session soon.
Much love, and bye for now,
Karen x
Maternity portraits: Exciting collaboration with European maternity fashion designer
Maternity Portraits
I don’t get a lot of spare time, particularly during the summer holidays when I have been juggling the care of my two children with a busy photography business, but last week I did get a day off!
I used it wisely. I escaped the studio and got out and about to do some experimental maternity portraits, along with my friend and fellow photographer, Gary Hill.
As you may know, maternity portrait photography is one of my core services and I love taking photos of gorgeous mummies-to-be.
Photographing a woman in her final stages of pregnancy is truly special.
The pregnancy ‘glow’ and the fully rounded tummy make for stunning portraits.
My maternity clients tell me that they love looking back on their pregnancy photos, long after their babies have been born.
Developing my portfolio of maternity portraits
So, in a bid to continue developing my portfolio of maternity portraits I took a day out recently with some beautiful pregnant ladies.
I recently collaborated with the amazing European maternity fashion designer, Mii-Estilo, and I had some of her gorgeous gowns for my maternity models to wear.
Designer maternity dresses
Based in the Netherlands, Ingrid of Mii-Estilo creates the most stunning maternity dresses. They accentuate every gorgeous baby bump and curve and come in the most flattering colours and designs.
I literally have fallen in love with her dresses, and so was thrilled to be able to use a number of them for my test shoots. I even got to use some of the dresses from her latest collection!
The gowns I used came in the most striking colours, for example, this rich red wine hue of this ‘Bordeaux Red Bellis’ Dress. It had an extra-long train – which I just loved too!
Experimenting with light and working in all weathers!
I took photos of my models in the forest and at the beach, to get a variety of shots.
The weather and the lighting were certainly a challenge! I battled strong winds and bright sunshine to get these great maternity portraits.
But that was the whole point of the day really. I had wanted to try photographing the ladies in difficult circumstances; at the times of the day when the natural light was harsh and therefore most challenging to work with, and in all weathers.
In this lovely beach shot, it was dark and spitting with rain so I think Beth did an amazing job!
In this one, this beautiful lady braved the gorse which was super prickly too!
And in this one, the sun was really bright but this portrait worked out brilliantly.
I’m thrilled to share the results of those test shoots with you here. I thoroughly enjoyed the day (big thanks to my lovely models Lindsey, Sarah, Beth and Kimberley), and I am absolutely delighted with the maternity portraits I took.
Which is your favourite? Do let me know in the comments!
Something new for you mummies to be!
Mummies to be
You know me…Never one to stand still! As a complement to my pregnancy and baby portrait services, I’ve decided to introduce something brand new for you mummies to be. Something which I hope many of you will love.
I’ve been busy behind the scenes testing out a new idea, a plaster cast of a pregnant lady’s baby bump.
This makes a beautiful prop, in the shape of a bowl, which can then be incorporated into a newborn baby photoshoot several weeks later.
During your newborn photo shoot, the baby can be placed in the bowl – in my signature sleeping baby style – and then the bowl is yours to take home with you afterward, as a lasting memento of your pregnant shape.
What a lovely way to celebrate your pregnancy and to create a personalised photo prop for your baby’s first photoshoot!
I’m really excited about adding another string to my bow with maternity bump castings. I love learning new skills and trying out new things, and the feedback from ladies I’ve done a cast for is extremely positive.
The process is incredibly quick to do and is completely safe for you pregnant ladies. So, don’t worry about having to stand for long periods of time while you have your cast done, and the process isn’t uncomfortable for you either. I promise!
I hope that you love this idea?
If you’re expecting in the next sixth months, I’d love to get you booked in for your maternity bump casting soon! The ideal time to get one done is between 34-38 weeks of pregnancy. Please contact me to secure your session.
Also, please share news of my new service with all the pregnant ladies who you think would love to get one done. Thank you in advance!
Finally, if you’d like to know more please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions you have.
I will be posting more examples of my maternity bump castings on my social media pages along with reviews from ladies who have tried it out for themselves.
Until next time, thanks for reading.
Karen x
Capturing the ‘beauty of the bump’
As well as specialising in newborn photography, I also absolutely love taking portraits of mums-to-be and the bump and have really enjoyed doing several maternity and pregnancy portraits in my studio recently.
As a mum of two, I remember that special feeling of carrying your unborn child and the amazement of the natural changes in your body as the baby grows inside you. It is such an exciting time, but it’s also a phase in life that comes and goes so quickly that it can be easy to forget, particularly after the baby has arrived and your life as you have known it has been turned upside down!
Without photographs to provide a reminder, the unique and special time that was your pregnancy can easily become a distant memory.
When pregnant ladies come to me for their maternity photo shoots, I aim to capture what I like to call the ‘beauty of the bump’! Bumps come in all shapes and sizes, but each is unique and special in its own way, and I work with the mothers to determine what they are comfortable with and the kind of photos that they would like to achieve.
Pregnancy portraits can involve just the mum or the dad-to-be can get involved too, whatever is your preference. I use flattering backdrops and subtle lighting, and guide you on how to create flattering poses which enhance the baby bump while also hiding any other bits that you may be keen to hide!
I’m thrilled when the mums who come to me are delighted with the results. The photos often provide them with a real confidence boost, at a time when they may be feeling less confident about their changing bodies. Exactly what a mum to be needs!
Karen x
