When I was contacted by my Client to book her maternity photography session at her home in Bermondsey London. We had a lovely conversation about her daughter who she wanted to include in the photoshoot.
I knew her daughter was very young still, only 20 months I think at the time of our maternity photoshoot. With this in mind we discussed how to best format the photoshoot in her home. I discussed her daughters nap schedule with her so that I could arrive at the best time of day. We also made arrangements for her Mum to be there to help on the day.
These arrangements and discussions before each photoshoot I do are always key to helping everything to run smoothly and effortlessly on the day.
Maternity Photography in Bermondsey, London SE1 – What to expect on the day
When I arrived her daughter was still having her nap in her pushchair in the front room. This allowed me to time to set up and get to know her Mum. We chatted more about the types of portraits that she wanted and I looked through the outfits she had prepared ready for her session.
We also looked through a moodboard of ideas. All of this is so helpful for me to get a sense of exactly what she was hoping to achieve.
Hair & Make-up
My wonderful make-up artist and dear friend Keti had arrived before our photoshoot as arranged to help Mum feel glamorous. Keti is incredible and did such a beautiful job with her hair and make-up. She looked absolutely stunning. I love how Keti will also come to the home before my photoshoots to help my Client’s feel at ease and to prepare their hair and makeup as they would like.
Some of my Client’s prefer to do their own which is also lovely but if you are able to then a little pampering before your photoshoot is definitely worth it. I’m always relaxed with Keti as I know she can connect to new Mums. She has two beautiful children of her own and we’ve worked together for years.
Whilst the finishing touches of make up were being done I transformed her lounge into a studio. I always love the gasps of surprise when My Client’s enter the room. Seeing their lounge transformed into a full photographic studio. For my maternity photoshoots I even bring a wind machine to add that wonderful movement to my portraits.
With every photoshoot I bring a selection of silks, chiffons and a selection of bandeau tops. If you don’t have items in your own wardrobe I have more than enough to use. However some of my Client’s like to add their own style to the portraits.
Maternity Photography in Bermondsey, London SE1 – Working with toddlers
For this pose I always check with Mum if she is still able to pick her little one up comfortably. If so this is such a beautiful way to photograph them together, especially for younger children.
I like to engage quickly with young children and to make sure they feel the session is fun and a mostly about them. I don’t ask them to participate but prefer to encourage them into the room. They often like to touch the backdrop and reflector, which are all exciting new additions to their home. I show them how to do this to ensure the environment is safe.
Being held by Mum for the first portraits helps them to feel safe and to see how the session works. I often find that even when I tell them that they can go and play whilst I take portraits just of Mum that they keep bouncing back in. I love it when this happens as it shows they are feeling free and enjoying the photoshoot.
Once we’ve established a connection, I’m able to get beautiful, natural portraits like these:
Outfit Changes
Incorporating outfit changes, using fabrics and also working on some beautiful artistic nudes. Helps to create a gallery of images with different looks.
Maternity Photography in Bermondsey, London SE1 – The unexpected shots
Moments like these are magic, completely unplanned and bring the biggest smile when you look back on your images.
To book your maternity photography session
I recommend booking your session as soon as possible after your 20 week scan.
The date of your photoshoot will be booked for when you are between 32-36 weeks. If you are expecting twins or this sin’t your first pregnancy you may like to book your photoshoot for around 30-31 weeks. It depends on how you are carrying and what you would prefer. I am always happy to discuss this with you when booking to ensure we choose the right time.
If you are beyond 36 weeks and booking last minute then don’t panic. I do sometimes have last minute availability and will always try to accomodate you when I can.
To book your maternity photoshoot please contact me here
A beautiful newborn photography session in Balham, London SW12.
During this session I was able to capture so many gorgeous newborn poses, using different angles and subtle changes once baby was settled. I often move around during my photoshoots. Once I’ve safely positioned your baby I will create different shots from the same pose before moving him or her.
A lot of photographers refer to this as flow work. It helps to minimise disturbing your newborn once they are settled. I have a series of positions that I will always work with. I work with natural positions for newborns and even then some are not right for some babies. With experience I can tell if your baby will comfortably settle onto their tummy or back or side. This has always been important to me as I’m working with tiny little people who need to be carefully handled.
This comes with years of experience but also with an inbuilt instinct to know what is feeling correct for your baby. I’m currently working on a some helpful tips for other photographers that I mentor and gradually putting together some guidance which can be referred to.
Like all things this will take time as I manage my working calendar and editing.
The Tummy Pose
With arms gently and carefully folded under babies head and the support of my soft padding and bean bag underneath this is the perfect newborn pose. I always allow babies head to rest comfortably on the side that they prefer.
Occasionally I do this pose front facing with assistance from parents. I will direct them where to place their hand for support which is then edited out after the session. I don’t do this pose as often as the head to the side though as it isn’t right for all babies. This one feels more natural and I love to see the baby comfortably sleeping.
This photograph has a calm feeling and I love the softness of my angora blanket from Princess & the Pea Props
I love their blankets as they are certainly the softest I have used and the best quality.
The close Up
Working through multiple close ups is wonderful to show beautiful details that can be enlarged or framed as a series.
I do a mix of soft colour and gentle black & white portraits for these to add variety. Adding soft blankets is a beautiful way to add texture to the images.
The family portraits
Moments together after your newborn is born are so precious and it’s a joy to capture these. I know parents often comment that they are not feeling portrait ready. That’s completely understandable, I certainly felt the same after the birth of my babies. However, these portraits are amoung of the most important that you will have in your lifetime.
I always encourage parents to take part as much as possible and these are often some of the favourite images from the session.
It also allows for those very important moments to hold and cuddle your newborn. Capturing that closeness and love gives me so much joy.
This one is in my signature black & white style. A style that I have worked with for many years and love for it’s timeless feel. These distinctive black & white portraits have always been my first love and it’s what drew me from painting to photography in the first place. All those years ago at art college!
Individual Parent portraits
I have no words to add to these as I think the images speak for themselves. I’ve love creating images like these for parents to treasure.
I received the most beautiful review from this session which can be read on my google review page. I’m so happy to have received over 200 five star google reviews form my Clients.
The Details
I wanted to show some of the images from one of my newborn photography sessions. To give a feel of what you can expect from your at home newborn photography session.
I love creating artistic black & white shots like these and will do similar looks with each photoshoot I do.
I’m always studying newborn photography and looking for new inspiration to add to the way I work. It does take years of practice and dedication to perfect your craft. As well as a knowledge of newborn safety.
This year I am celebrating 14 years as a London Newborn, Baby, Maternity and Family photographer. i couldn’t be happier and honestly I don’t know where the time has gone! It feels like yesterday that I created the look for my firsts portraits and of course the inspiration was my beautiful newborn daughter.
For details and to book your session with me, contact me here
I’ve been called to Balham often over the past few months and I love this area of South West London. As a Balham Maternity Photographer it’s lovely to get to know so many new Mums-to-be. Often returning again for their newborn photography session.
With my portable indoor studio there really is no “right or wrong” weather for your photoshoot at home. Which is especially handy with the rainy weather we have had here in the UK this Summer.
My studio adapts to any home space and I am reedy to find the perfect area of your home for your private maternity photography session when I arrive.
As a Balham Maternity Photographer I have lots of experience with working in homes of all shapes and sizes.
On the day of your session I will arrive at our pre-arranged time with my studio. First of all I like to chat and find out how everything has been for you so far in your pregnancy. Understanding your journey helps me bring a sense of your person into the portraits.
I bring a selection of silks and bandeau tops to each maternity photoshoot I do. As well as my trusty wind machine and my studio backs-drops and lighting. My style is classic & elegant with a nod to the iconic black & white portraits of the past. I also love to add plenty of colour options should this be a style that you are drawn to. There will be a large gallery of images to choose from after our photoshoot.
Balham Maternity Photographer: Partner Portraits
As well as plenty of stunning maternity portraits to celebrate your bump there is always time to include your partner. The excited and supportive Dad-to-be!
The partner portraits that I do often give the most beautiful moment for couples to pause during this busy time and enjoy a special moment together.
These before moments when it is still the two of you. Before your newborn arrives and you become a family for the first time. Or of course for the second, third or fourth time!
Balham Maternity Photographer: Having Fun
My pregnancy photography sessions are always relaxed and most of all fun. I love capturing natural smiles and as we chat our way through the session there are always plenty of laughs.
It’s my biggest joy when I capture natural laughter and the pure energy of how you are feeling in that moment.
These photoshoots are a celebration of motherhood and I want that to come across in my portraits.
Balham Maternity Photographer: Book Your Maternity Photoshoot
I would love to chat to your about your maternity photoshoot. Whether you would like to book just your maternity photography session with me or opt for the maternity & newborn photography package. I am here to help capture your journey for you.
I recommend booking any time after your 20 week scan and arranging your photoshoot for when you are between 32-36 weeks pregnant. If you have gone beyond this and would like to check for last minute availability then don’t worry. I often have last minute changes to my schedule and will always do my best to fit you in. As this isn’t a guarantee though please do try to book in advance where possible.
To contact me please click on my contact me page, fill in your details and I will be in touch within 24 hours to help book your session.
If you would like to read reviews, including a lovely review from this photoshoot please click on my google review page.
Maternity photoshoots also make wonderful gifts for maternity leave or as a surprise for your partner, friend or family member. I also offer beautiful gift packages which can be found here.
Thank you so much for reading my blog, I hope to meet you soon for a relaxed and enjoyable maternity photoshoot.
This was a wonderful Newborn and Family Photography in Clapham session. There is nothing I love more than to include siblings during my at home newborn photoshoots.
Whilst their newborn baby brother or sister is being fed and settled I always find a window of opportunity to do some very special portraits which are all about them.
For this session I was greeted by this lovely little girl who had spent a long time getting ready with her mum. Choosing her outfit, her clip on earrings and necklace and having her hair brushed. She was so happy to be photographed and I wanted to capture that moment in time.
What to expect at your newborn & family photoshoot
Before your newborn & family photography session I will email my carefully prepared pre-photoshoot guidance to help you and your family prepare.
There isn’t too much to be done as I will bring everything needed for your photography session to your home. I will guide you and your family on the day to ensure everything runs smoothly.
We will also have pre-arranged a time of day that is convenient for you and your family whilst ensuring it is a time of day when your child is at his or her happiest. I often find the morning is best.
When photographing a newborn baby and older children I like to format my session so that the children don’t have to wait around for too long for baby to settle. The beauty of being in their own home is that they are able to play and show me their toys whilst we wait for baby. We can chat and get to know each other whilst taking some beautiful individual portraits. I like to make a fuss of them and make sure they know how this photoshoot is just as much about them as it is their newborn sibling.
I always begin with family shots when possible and then the sibling shots. Then they are free to go and play and won’t need to take part in any more pictures unless they want to.
This gives plenty of time to focus on the newborn portraits.
The Newborn Portraits
Once settled the magic of newborn photography is created in your home. I’m very happy to help with your newborn at all stages of your photohsoots.
WIth over a decade of experience as a newborn photographer and as a mother of two you can rest assured that your little one is in good hands.
I love to help sooth your little one and gently position them on my safe and comfortable newborn studio bed. (I bring this and my backdrops to your home).
Clothing for your newborn baby is supplied by me. I have delicate handmade baby outfits and accessories for you to choose from. Each item is handmade by professional newborn baby knitwear designers. They use the softest wools that are perfect for babies sensitive skin and I have worked with the same team for years.
What if my newborn won’t settle?
This is a question I am regularly asked by my Clients before our photoshoot. I will always try to reassure you before your photoshoot that you do not to worry about this at all.
I would never expect you or your newborn to be perfectly ready when I arrive. In fact often the first part of our session can be spent feeding and getting your newborn ready. This is very normal.
The reason I give such a large window of time for my newborn photography sessions is not because we will be actively taking photographs the entire time but it is to allow for as much time as is needed to prepare your little one.
Each day with a newborn is different and there is no routine in these early days. I’m there to help guide and to know when the time is right to begin the session.
I only book one newborn and family photography session per day.
This allows for my travel time and for my time during your session to be uninterrupted.
Would you like to find out more?
I would love to capture your newborn and family moments for you. Head over to my contact page and tell me a little more about what you are looking for.
I’m always happy to help and answer any questions you have. I’d love to hear more about you and help to prepare a photography package that’s perfect for you and your family.
From my customers
I’m very proud to have worked with many wonderful families over the years. Many of which have been kind enough to leave me their feedback on my google review page after our photoshoot.
I’m so grateful to have over 200 – 5 star google reviews! Please feel free to read through and I hope this helps to give you a further feel of my sessions.
On my blog today I’m very happy to be sharing some of my favourite portraits from a recent newborn photography in Crystal Palace, South London session.
As a mobile studio photographer I travel to all far reaching corners of London.
For this session I travelled to Crystal Palace which has a very special place in my heart. I often brought my two children to Crystal Palace Park when they were little to see the famous dinosaurs. My daughter and son have run countless cross country races around Crystal Palace Park for their school. And when she was very little my daughter attended her gymnastics class here. So this part of London holds a lot of nostalgia for me and I’m always happy to return.
Never more so than to greet a newborn baby who is about to begin their childhood journey in this lovely corner of London.
The family Portrait
When I arrived at their home for their newborn photoshoot, I was greeted by Mum & Dad and their beautiful baby girl.
Everything felt serene and calm. Their warm and inviting home perfectly prepared. As with all of my photoshoots I had prepared them with my pre-photoshoot guidance so that they could prepare. I had also advised them that I only book one newborn session a day so there would be no time pressure on them.
This photoshoot was brought as a gift from a loving husband to his wife. A beautiful way to let her know how much he loves her and their new daughter. I was very touched by this gesture and we created a personal gift package before the photoshoot so that he could give this to her as a surprise.
A gift voucher is a beautiful and thoughtful gift for new mothers, baby showers, maternity leave and baby reveal parties. For details please see my gift page here.
There is a lot to love in this first portrait of them together as a family and I felt so happy to have captured their daughters contented smile. For me this made it the perfect shot for them to treasure.
The detailed shots
Focusing on the details of your newborn is a beautiful way to add to your gallery of images. I love to create these shots during each newborn photography session I do. Looking for the little details that I know will be cherished as your baby grows and changes.
This is just a handful of some of the images chosen by Mum and Dad after our photoshoot for their beautiful handmade album.
The classic newborn poses
There are always certain poses that I love to include in each photoshoot. The ones which are just so beautiful with a timeless feel to them. Focussing on the simple beauty of your newborn. I love thes eimages to be framed in one of my gallery frames to make a stunning piece of wall art.
The cheeky expressions
During the session there is always a little time when your newborn will be awake. If she is lovely and calm like this little one I always seize the opportunity for some lovely expression poses.
This one is so gorgeous and unique to her. I love it!
Book your newborn photography session with me
If you would like to book your newborn photography session with me do get in touch. I cover most areas of London, Kent, Surrey and Essex. I’ll be happy to accommodate and let you know if I can come to your area with my mobile studio.
It is always my aim to make your private photography session effortless, relaxing and rewarding.
Contact me with your details via my contact page on my website or click on the green Whatsapp button to message me direct with your details.
