Those first few weeks with a newborn can feel like a whirlwind — sleepless nights, endless feeds, and everything feeling new all at once. So when it comes to booking a newborn session, the last thing I want is for it to feel like “one more thing” on your list.
Here are some gentle, thoughtful ways to make your session feel calm, cosy, and completely manageable — even in the messy, beautiful blur of those early days.

Book While You’re Still Pregnant

The newborn phase is blink-and-you-miss-it. While we don’t need baby to be under two weeks old for a lifestyle session, it’s still a good idea to book before they arrive. That way, once baby is here, we’re ready to go without any last-minute stress.I pencil in your due date then when baby arrives you contact me and we arrange a date to suit. Booking early gives you peace of mind, especially when you’re running on little sleep and navigating big emotions.

Choose a Newborn Session at Home

Home is where the magic already lives. You might worry your house isn’t “photo-ready,” but truly, it’s the personal touches that make these sessions so meaningful. You have everything you need nearby — nappies, spare clothes, snacks, a cup of tea — and you’re in the space where your story is unfolding right now.
It also means you don’t have to leave the house or wrangle a newborn out the door on a tight schedule (especially important for recovering bodies and tired minds). These sessions become beautiful time capsules the chair you rock your baby in, the pup curled up nearby, the nursery you poured love into. It’s all part of the story.

Relax

You don’t need to entertain me. I’ll gently guide you, go at baby’s pace, and give you space to just be. You can drink your tea, have some toast, feed the baby, and I’ll quietly capture the magic as it unfolds.

These sessions are designed to feel peaceful, not posed. You deserve a calm morning just soaking in your little one.

Plan Your Wardrobe in Advance

Thinking about outfits ahead of time takes one big thing off your plate. I’m always happy to help you choose colours and styles that feel like you while also photographing beautifully. Neutrals and soft tones tend to work well, but the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and at ease.

Keep the House Warm

Newborns can’t regulate their temperature very well, so a toasty space will help them stay settled and content. If we’re doing any photos where baby is in just a nappy or light wrap, a warm room makes all the difference. Think of it like creating a little cocoon — soft, safe, and soothing.

Allow Plenty of Time

These sessions are never rushed. We’ll take breaks for feeds, nappy changes, and cuddles — it’s all part of the flow. I usually only book one family a day to make sure there’s no pressure or time crunch.
Let the day stretch out gently — you’re not on a schedule, and we’ll take everything at your baby’s pace.

Bring the Whole Family In

Partners, siblings, pets — I love including everyone. Newborns feel most at ease when they’re held, snuggled, and close to you. Family-focused photos give us variety and emotion, and they remind your baby (and you!) just how loved they are.
It’s not about the perfect pose. It’s about the way your toddler kisses their new sibling or how your partner holds baby close. Those little moments are everything.

A Little Tidy-Up Helps

Your home doesn’t need to be perfect — I promise. But clearing clutter from the areas we’ll be using (like bedside tables or coffee tables) can help keep the focus on you.
I’m happy to help move a few things on the day too. We’ll work together to make it feel calm and clear, without pressure.

Let Baby Feed Whenever They Need

This is the golden rule: if baby wants to feed, let them. Feeding keeps baby calm and happy, and it’s such a special, grounded part of the session. Whether it’s breast or bottle, on or off camera, we’ll follow baby’s lead and take as many pauses as needed.
A well-fed, comforted baby makes for the most peaceful photos — and you’ll feel more relaxed too.

Let Yourself Enjoy It

This is your permission slip to enjoy the moment. So often we worry about how we look, whether the baby will cooperate, or if the house is tidy enough, but honestly? None of that really matters. This is about connection, not perfection.
So let the baby snuggle in, laugh if something goes a bit sideways, and take a breath. You’re doing something beautiful just by showing up. My job is to hold space and gently guide, so you can simply be present and soak in this tender, fleeting time.