I can’t tell you how happy I am that the studio is open again and it almost feels (dare I say it) fairly normal in the world of photography for me right now. We’ve missed out on so much over the past 12 months and newborn babies have come in for their ‘newborn’ shoots at a few months old. Those that were born during the early stages of lockdown in 2020 are now reaching the age of one and have spent most of their whole life in isolation, unable to attend baby groups and socialise. New mums & dads have missed out on meeting other new parents which means less cake and coffee chats... which really means less peer support. Let’s hope this is the start of the new beginning and baby focussed services will stay open and parents & babies alike can get the valued company and support that is needed.

So what does this mean for me and the baby photography business? Well basically we have found ourselves working with ‘older’ newborns and have found that it is achievable though may take a little longer. I’ve also found that first birthday and sitter shoots need extra care and attention to help baby feel at ease in a strange new place. The lack of opportunity to socialise can make them a bit more wary of their surroundings. Usually babies under one are super smiley and engaging but a whole year without much interaction with others can have an impact. This isn’t always the case but it is something I’m aware of and that’s why my sessions may take a bit longer than usual.

Time is needed to help baby feel comfortable and that can mean not even picking up the camera for a short while. Sitting on the floor, singing songs, clapping together and playing peekaboo are some of the ways in which I use in the studio to establish a safe and warm environment. I am baby led and a positive experience for everyone involved is my number one priority… the photos come second!

Here are some first birthday photos that I love.. I am also finding that these shoots are really good for 2 year olds too…

Check out my Cake Smash page for all the creative sets I have put together… all sets are designed with your child in mind and most are unique to each individual shoot.