10 essential tips for a newborn photoshoot.

Welcoming a newborn into your family is a joyous and fleeting moment. Capturing those precious early days through newborn photography allows you to cherish those memories for a lifetime. To ensure a successful and enjoyable photoshoot experience, here are 10 essential tips to help you prepare:

1. Schedule the Session Early:

   You can book a session in with me anywhere from your 20 weeks scan. Booking early secures you a spot, especially when the months of October to December get so busy. Newborn photoshoots are ideally done within the first two weeks of your baby's arrival when they are sleepier and more flexible for posing so we can pencil in a date for around 10 days after due date. I understand that your baby may not arrive as expected but this is why I try to keep the diary flexible so we can change your appointment nearer the time free of charge.

2. Mornings are better:

   Planning the session during a time when your baby is usually calm and content can be helpful, however this is never always the same time. Typically in those first few weeks I find they are more content in the mornings. It is also beneficial to capture the sleepy shots after a feed. There’s plenty of time to stop for this and cuddles during the session.

3. Create a Cozy Environment:

   The good news is this is already done for you! I aim for the temperature in the studio to be slightly warmer than usual ( around 20-21 degrees) to keep your baby comfortable while undressed. A cozy and warm atmosphere helps them relax and sleep peacefully.

4. Feed Your Baby:

   A well-fed baby is a happy baby. When they are ready we can stop to feed them, but it is ideal to do this at the start of your session if possible. Feeding your little one just before the photoshoot starts can ensure they are content and less likely to get hungry or fussy during the session.

5. Dress for Success:

   Dress your baby in loose-fitting clothing that opens easily from the front, avoiding outfits that need to be pulled over their head. This way, we can undress them gently without disturbing their sleep. Ideally a plain white sleep suit is a nice way to start on a white background.

6. Dress comfortably:

You don’t need to be in formal attire. I want you to feel comfortable in what you wear, so something smart casual works well. You don’t have to wear it en-route to the studio. There will be time to change in the studio in the separated areas. I do recommend for your image neutral colours and no large logos or patterns to keep the attention on you and baby, and keeping your image timeless.

7. Keep Accessories Simple:

A cute headband or a tiny hat can add charm to your baby's photos, keep accessories minimal. While I do have a selection at the studio The focus should be on your baby's delicate features and expressions. They also don’t like to change clothes a lot so I use mostly wraps and only 1-2 outfits throughout the session.

8. Be Patient and Relaxed:

Babies can sense stress or tension, so it's crucial to remain calm and relaxed during the session. Trust your photographer's expertise and follow their guidance, allowing them to work their magic. I provide cups of tea and coffee and play calm music with dimmed lights. I even have a comfy sofa to curl up on and a rocking chair to help with feeding. There’s no rush, we can just take our time and make you can make yourselves at home. Free wifi is also available.

9. Bring Essentials:

Pack a bag with all the essentials such as nappies, wipes, extra clothing, and a few gifted items such as a teddy or blankets to keep your baby comfortable and content throughout the session. I have some spare nappies and nappy sacks just incase, a changing matt and some bins around.

10. Relish the Moment:

Lastly, cherish the experience! Newborn photography is a wonderful opportunity to bond with your baby and capture their earliest moments. Enjoy the session, and let the love and joy shine through in your family's photographs.

By following these 10 essential tips, you'll be well-prepared for a successful newborn photoshoot. Remember, the most important thing is to relax, enjoy the process, and create lasting memories that you'll treasure for years to come.

Newborn Photography and Parenthood.

I am a newborn photographer and I work with, hold and cuddle newborns every day!  It can be hard sometimes to explain how important these moments are for you to capture. I can tell you how the newborn stage doesn’t last long and how you need to capture these moments before they are gone.  But how can I fully, truly explain to you when I want to be a mum, but I’m currently not? Why should you listen to what I say? 

I talk to mums all the time, every day in fact and as I understand it, watching your children grow can be one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences in life. From the moment they are born, you witness their every milestone, triumph, and struggle. 

So I asked my instagram community full of my lovely clients and mums living mum life daily! 

Capturing Newborns when they fit perfectly in your hands.

Here are some common sentiments and emotions you might experience as you observe your children's growth and I this is what I want to capture in your images. Here’s what they said!

• Unconditional Love: As a mum, your love for your children is boundless. Watching them grow only deepens this affection, and you find yourself loving them more with each passing day, regardless of their age or stage in life.

• Pride in Achievements: Every little accomplishment brings immense pride. Whether it's their first steps, saying their first words, excelling in school, or mastering a hobby, you cheer them on every step of the way.  One mum told me via instagram: “Although you wish for every milestone, you have a little sadness in each one because you realise just how fast they are growing.” 

• Nostalgia for the Past:  Remembering the early days of their infancy and toddlerhood can bring a sense of nostalgia. Those beautiful images from your photoshoot become invaluable.  You may find yourself flipping through old photos and nothing will beat high quality newborn photography.  “You will fall down a photo rabbit hole from time to time reminiscing about the times when they were so tiny and dependent on you. Especially on birthdays.” 

• Parental Growth: As your children grow, you grow as well. Parenthood continually challenges you to evolve, adapt, and become a better version of yourself, both as a parent and an individual.

• Cherished Moments: “Thinking you still have a baby, but then meeting a newborn you realise you suddenly have a toddler is something else”  Time seems to fly when you're a mom. Amidst the chaos of daily life, you try to cherish every moment and the best way is to freeze them in time. Childhood is fleeting. 

• Deepening Bonds: As they grow older, your relationship with your children can transform into a deeper bond overall.  But your bond from the start is something you treasure most. 

If you are looking for beautiful newborn photography that captures them so small, lasts a lifetime and captures your bond. You can enquire about a photoshoot today!

Newborn photoshoot with a dog!

One of my more recent shoots decided they wanted to bring their pup with them and who am I to say no! I may have two beautiful kittens, Bagheera and Bean and previously my heart cat Cilla. BUT I LOVE DOGS! I 100% agree that pets are a big part of your family. Fur babies if you will. Treats don’t go amiss through your sessions. It can help to keep them focused and coax them to where we need them to be.

Safety of the newborn is imperative. I try my best to get them into position and then pop baby next to them. If at any time they do not wish to co-operate then we just don’t do the shot. They need to be comfortable and calm to capture images with a newborn.

The most important images to capture though have to be the family photos with them. Its best to start with these first so they are comfortable with the flash and we have the important shots before they are bored of the camera. I think of them as toddlers really, we get toddler shots out of the way first in sessions as they can get fed up of having their photo taken and we often want them done to avoid any nap times that the photoshoot may overlap.

This lovely fellow came dressed up with a bow tie. How could anyone think that’s not handsome!

He was so well behaved and patient. Once he was done he had a few cuddles as well as pets and scratches from me, then relaxed watching the session take place and even took a little nap. Just take a look at the most irresistible puppy eyes!

Special Newborn Photography.

Leonard's Charming Session in Creamy Neutrals.

Welcoming a newborn into the family is always a momentous occasion, and when it's your own nephew, the joy is immeasurable. Our recent newborn photoshoot with Leonard was extra special, not just because he's a beloved family member, but also because it showcased the beauty of preservation, despite the challenges of cluster feeding. Join us as we share Leonard's photoshoot and the stunning imagery we created using soft, fluffy textures and creamy neutral colours.

The Importance of a Cozy Studio.

As any parent or caregiver knows, newborns can be unpredictable. Leonard, like many newborns, was going through a phase of cluster feeding when we scheduled his photoshoot. But with a little patience, gentle care, and the right environment, I was able to work my magic and create beautiful images that will be cherished for a lifetime, not only by his parents. But his grandparents and myself as his Aunt, as I am sure his other Aunts and Uncles will as well.

The studio is designed to be a haven of comfort and tranquility, perfect for soothing newborns. The cozy and controlled environment allowed Lennie to relax and settle into the session. We paid careful attention to maintaining the ideal temperature to ensure he was warm and snug throughout. Our priority was Lennie’s well-being, and we created a safe and nurturing space for the photoshoot.

It is also important to me that the parents feel welcomed into a session, tea and coffee is provided and in our case as we are family, we grabbed lunch and hung out on the comfy sofas. I got some cuddles in and Andy even managed a short nap on the sofa.

Creamy Neutrals and Soft Textures.

For Leonard's session, we chose a timeless and neutral colour palette. Creamy whites and soft neutrals provided the perfect backdrop, allowing Leonard's natural beauty to shine. These colors create a timeless and elegant look that will stand the test of time and match any decor.

We wrapped Leonard in soft, breathable fabrics, creating a sense of coziness and security that newborns love. This not only ensured his comfort but also resulted in adorable poses that highlighted his flexibility and charm. One of our favorite sets was when we placed him in a delightful basket filled with soft, fluffy textures. The contrast of Leonard's delicate features against the neutral tones and plush surroundings created truly enchanting images that quickly became my new favourite set.

Preserving Precious Newborn Memories

Newborn photography is all about capturing the fleeting moments of your baby's early days, preserving memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime. Lennie’s session is a perfect example of how dedication, patience, and a cozy studio environment can result in stunning imagery that tells a unique story of his early life.

Lennie’s newborn photoshoot was truely a memorable experience & I am absolutely SMITTEN with my beautiful “Squishy” as I fondly call him.

If you're looking to capture your own newborn's special moments, we invite you to book a session with us. Let us help you create timeless memories that you'll hold dear for a lifetime. Contact us today to schedule your newborn photoshoot and make your own special memories.

hello@caramiaphotography.co.uk

Newborn Photography in Warwickshire.

What to Expect in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick and Leamington.

Welcoming a new member into your family is an incredibly special and joyous occasion. It's only natural to want to capture those early moments with professional newborn photography. In Warwickshire, specifically in Warwick, Leamington spa, Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding areas, there is a wide range of talented photographers offering their services. The cost of newborn photography in this region can vary, and in this blog post, we will explore what you can expect to pay for a newborn photographer in Warwickshire, along with a unique pricing offer.

Warwickshire Newborn photography.

Warwickshire caters to a diverse range of budgets. Whether you are looking for a basic package or a more comprehensive one with extra features, you'll find options to suit your needs. Here's an overview of what you might expect:

Session Fees

My session fees are a flat fee of £49, unless it is a weekend in which it is £79 The average session fee I have found starts about £70-£75, without the weekend fee. I also allow up to 4 hours for my session, they usually last only 2-3 hours but we know there is no rush or time restrictions and can relax.

Basic packages

Basic packages have the minimum allowance of images a photographer will provide, so if you are on a budget I recommend you check at least this one is within your budget. In my research have found these to start from around £295 for 5-10 images.

Here at Cara Mia Photography, My basic package is called “Bundle of Joy” and comes with 10 fully edited digital images to download for £249.

Standard packages

The standard packages may include more time for some photographers, but they do mostly include a greater number of edited digital images, and additional perks like print credits. Prices for standard packages can range from £350 - £499

Here at Cara Mia Photography, My standard package is called “The Nurture package” and comes with 20 fully edited digital images to download and 5 prints - for £299 as well as 10% off print and wall art packages. You also don’t need to pay the session fee for the 6 months photoshoot should you choose to book one in and 10% off any package chosen for this.

Premium packages

Premium packages often provide an extended session, an extensive selection of digital images and specially printed products. Prices for premium packages can vary from £600 to £1,500!

Here at Cara Mia Photography, My premium package is called “The Newborn Bliss package” and comes with ALL* IMAGES FROM THE GALLERY +10 PRINTS. fully edited and ready to download in the online viewing gallery. Usually this is for £499 but until 2024 this is available for £449 as well as 10% off wall art.

Price Match Guarentee.

What sets some newborn photographers in Warwickshire apart is their dedication to providing exceptional value to their clients. Many photographers, like myself, understand that clients want both quality and affordability.

As part of my commitment to offering competitive pricing, I provide a unique guarantee: If you find another photographer within a 15-mile radius of my studio in Stratford-upon-Avon with a similar style and a lower price for comparable services), I will match their price. This offer ensures that you receive the best value without compromising on the quality of your newborn photography experience. (t&c’s: they must have their own studio, not a home studio or at home newborn sessions)

Factors Influencing Pricing

It's important to note that newborn photography pricing is influenced by various factors, including but not limited to:

1. Studio Rent and Overheads: The cost of renting a professional studio space and covering operational expenses can impact the photographer's pricing.

2. Experience and Expertise: Highly skilled and experienced photographers may charge more for their services due to their ability to capture the most stunning and safe newborn images.

3. Equipment and Props: The investment in high-quality photography equipment and props is reflected in pricing, as these are essential for creating beautiful newborn photographs.

4. Post-Production and Editing: The time spent in post-production, including editing and retouching, contributes to the overall cost as well as the services used for this such as outsourcing and software.

5. Additional Services: Optional add-ons such as custom albums, prints, and specialty products can influence the final price and in these times where cost and inflation has gone up this is why currently prints and products are an add on to your packages.

The cost of newborn photography in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding Warwickshire area is flexible and designed to accommodate various budgets. Whether you opt for a basic, standard, or premium package, you can trust that you will receive professional and high-quality photography services to capture the precious moments with your newborn. Additionally, with the assurance of a price-matching guarantee for similar services within 15 miles of the studio, you can have confidence in your choice of photographer.

Remember that while pricing is important, the priceless memories captured during this special time will be cherished for a lifetime.

What if my baby is awake during a newborn photo shoot?

I have over 9 years experience working with newborns capturing all of those cosy sleepy photos. But what if they are awake?

I like to embrace those awake moments as much as sleepy ones.

We will be able to capture beautiful images of your baby even when they're wide awake! If they decide to have an awake moment just remember, We have time. Your beautiful bundle will eventually get tired enough to sleep, but as long as they are happy and calm it is still lovely to capture them with their eyes open and taking in the world.

There’s a whole bunch of things we can do though in the mean time to help settle them back down.

1) I talk to babies. It might sound odd but they just seem to want to know who I am and what that strange instrument I seem to hide behind is. They can see contrasting shapes and with a white studio they can see my shape and camera. Often they stare at my dark hair. But to keep things calm, I tell them about what we are doing today, ask them how their night was ect. Sometimes I will hum songs or make shhh sounds and mostly they get bored of me or are just too tired to process any more and fall right asleep.

2) If there are no signs of sleep, another option is walking round the studio. I get so many steps in just walking around the studios settling babies down to sleep as I take steps around they haven’t got a lot of ability to focus on one thing and the rocking motion or soothing taps from my hand can settle them into sleep. I don’t put them down until I feel like they are in a deep enough sleep to.

3) Cuddles can work wonders and so can a swaddle. If they are nice and calm I will wrap them up all cosy. If not I can hand them over to you. Milk can also work but what we don’t want to do is over feed them so they are uncomfortable or sick.

4) Keeping the room warm. I have plenty of heaters and the room holds a nice temperature. So if needed I will warm the room up to around 20-23 degrees.

If your newborn is awake during their photo shoot, try not to worry. Enjoy your time here at the studio, try to stay present, have a lovely hot cup of tea or take a little snooze on the sofa. No two newborn sessions are the same but the one thing that they do have in common is that we work together at babies own pace. If they are happy, I am happy. This is how I continue to capture beautiful images.

If you think you would like to book a newborn photoshoot please reach out via my contact page. I am happy to answer any questions you might have.

How do I find a newborn photographer in Warwickshire?

Congratulations on the new addition to your family! Your sweet baby has arrived in the world and there is an absolutely overwhelming feeling of love and joy burning through you and you want to capture all of the beautiful moments connecting with them. Finding the right newborn photographer can be a daunting task, but there are a few ways you can go about finding the right photographer for you! Here’s some tips how.

Where to find a newborn photographer.

You can search online for newborn photographers in your area. This is the most common way to find a newborn photographer. I am taking a little guess (which may be completely wrong) that you probably found me with a quick search on a search engine. This is one of the easiest ways to find a newborn photographer near you. If you have, I could also take a guess that you are in Warwickshire and maybe, not too far from Stratford upon Avon where I have a cosy and accessible studio or I can come to your home. A quick search will bring up a whole load of photographers but often the ones at the top are advertisements. There's nothing wrong with this at all, Just make sure they are local enough to you before you book.

So many of my clients have friends who have also joined me at the studio! It is wonderful and gives a real sense of community. If you have seen a style you like through a friend or family members photos ask who their photographer is. This supports small local businesses as well as help you find one that will come highly recommended. Don't forget to read online reviews of the photographers you are considering. This can be a great way to get an honest opinion from past clients.

Some questions to consider while you are looking: Are you are looking for an at home newborn session or a session in a photo studio? How far are you willing to travel? Do they have good reviews?

What to look for.

The main thing to look for first is the photographers style. Are you looking for someone who poses and wraps your newborn or captures them more naturally? Check out their websites and social media accounts to get a better sense of their style and what kind of images they produce. All photographers have their own style so it is really important to explore their work

You also need to look at the photographers experience. You want your baby to be in safe hands. It's important to make sure that your photographer is experienced and knowledgeable in newborn photography, so that your baby is comfortable and secure during the session.

Some questions to keep in mind include: How long have they been a photographer? Have they had any training to do newborn photography? - This is an important one especially for posed newborn photography.

Check out the photographers pricing. There is probably nothing more disheartening than going through all of the work finding a photographer, even going through the photoshoot experience only to find they are completely out of your price range. If they aren’t willing to share their prices with you when you reach out to them, are they the photographer for you?

So what’s next?

I recommend before booking that you reach out to your photographer. Have a chat on the phone or a conversation via email. If you have any unanswered questions, spend a little time to get to know them and ask any questions you have.

If you think I could be the photographer for you, Drop me a message. I am always open to talking with you. Just email hello@caramiaphotography.co.uk and we can chat there or arrange a good time for me to call you.