Newborn Photography FAQS
Planning a newborn photoshoot in Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell, Loughton, Theydon Bois, Epping, Woodford Green, South Woodford, Wanstead and the surrounding areas? As a newborn photographer, I’ve answered the most common questions about safety, preparation, and pricing to help you feel confident.
When do I pay for my session?
Payment Structure
Payments are made in three stages:
- Booking Fee
A £99 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your photoshoot session. - Image Selection Payment
During your viewing appointment (1-2 weeks after the shoot), you’ll select your preferred package of digital images (10, 20 or all edited photographs) and complete payment. - Wall Art & Products
All printed photographs, wall art and albums are chosen and paid for during your digital image viewing session.
Where are you based?
My welcoming home studio is conveniently situated in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. There is plenty of parking available and complimentary refreshments during their session. I’ve created a cosy photography studio right in my Buckhurst Hill home
When is the best time to photograph a newborn?
The ideal window is 7–14 days after birth, when babies sleep deeply and curl naturally. However, beautiful sessions can be done up to 3 weeks — we’ll focus on their unique personality at this stage. Flexibility is key!
How long does a session take? What if my baby is fussy?
Sessions typically last 2–3 hours, with no rushed time limits. We’ll pause for feeding, nappy changes, or cuddles. Unlike many London studios (which cap at 1.5 hours), I prioritise your baby’s comfort over strict schedules.
How do you ensure my baby’s safety?
Your little one’s well-being is my top priority. I:
- Use only hypoallergenic, organic fabrics (no cheap synthetics like some studios)
- I have extensive experience working with babies and always care about their safety
- Composite all posed images (e.g., parents’ hands always support the baby, even if edited out later)
Do you shoot at home or in a studio?
My studio is better suitable, as I have all the necessary equipment and props ready for newborn sessions, as well as climate control and sanitised setups for classic portraits. But if you want to have a session at your home, this is possible for an extra fee.
Can my partner and I be in the photos too?
Absolutely. These are your memories as much as your baby’s. I’ll guide you into natural, flattering interactions (no stiff posing).
How many photos will we receive, and when?
You’ll get 25–35 hand-edited high-resolution images within 2–3 weeks. I prioritise quality over speed, ensuring each image is perfected.
Your style looks very natural. Can we avoid props and posed setups?
Absolutely! My «clean organic» approach focuses on authentic connections — your hands holding them, their tiny yawns, your quiet joy. Props are optional (though I offer delicate, neutral-toned wraps if desired).
Why do you use muted colours instead of bright ones?
Soft palettes ensure your images remain timeless and keep the focus on emotions. However, we can incorporate meaningful pops of colour (e.g., a grandparent’s knitted blanket or sibling’s toy).
Can we include our pets in the photos?
Of course! Pets are family. I’ll send a prep guide (e.g., tiring them out pre-session) to ensure calm, adorable interactions.
What if my baby won’t sleep during the session?
Some of my favourite images feature wide-eyed babies — their first gazes, stretches, or gripping your finger. We’ll follow their lead.
Do you provide RAW files?
No, as RAW files are unedited and don’t reflect my artistic style. But all delivered images include full printing rights and are optimised for albums/canvases.
Can you remove baby acne/redness in photos?
Yes, I delicately retouch temporary skin imperfections while keeping your baby’s natural texture (unlike overly airbrushed styles some studios use).
What if my baby cries the entire session?
I’ll use white noise, swaddling, and warmth to soothe them. If needed, we’ll reschedule — no extra fee. 80% of my sessions start with tears but end with calm!
We’re sleep-deprived — will we look terrible in photos?
I direct parents into flattering, natural poses (forehead kisses, cradling baby close). Soft lighting and neutral tones minimise shadows. You’ll see only love, not exhaustion.
Can you photograph premature/NICU babies?
Yes, with extra precautions. I’ve worked with preemies as small as 2 lbs — slower pace, hospital-grade sanitisation, and adjusted poses. Parents receive a discounted «Little Fighter» package.
Our family is multicultural — will your lighting work for all skin tones?
Absolutely. I use adjustable lighting setups and edit to enhance each family member’s unique undertones (no «one-light-fits-all» approach).
Can we do an outdoor newborn session in winter?
For babies under 3 months, I recommend studio or home sessions — their temperature regulation is too delicate for British winters. For older babies, we’ll plan a short outdoor segment with warm wraps.
Do you offer Christmas-themed setups?
Yes, but subtly — think neutral holiday textures (cashmere stockings, evergreen sprigs) rather than loud «Santa hats». These blend seamlessly with my timeless style.
How do we store photos to last decades?
I have provided a free digital archive for 5 years. Upgrade to a handmade heirloom album.
Do you offer milestones (3 months, 1 year) packages?
Yes! My “First Year Collective” includes 3 sessions (newborn, sitting up, first birthday).
Can we bring grandparents/siblings?
Of course! I allocate extra time for family groupings. Siblings get breaks with toys to avoid meltdowns.
Do you work with LGBTQ+ families?
With warmth and respect! Your family’s story is unique, and I’ll capture it authentically.
How do you sanitise your studio/props between sessions?
Before every client, I:
- Steam-clean all fabrics at 90°C
- Immerse props in baby-safe antibacterial solution.
- Wash hands with hospital-grade sanitiser before touching your baby.
Do you share raw files with third-party retouchers?
Never. All editing is done personally by me — no overseas freelancers have access to your images.
How do you handle toddlers during a newborn session?
I:
- Book morning slots when toddlers are freshest.
- Start with sibling shots first, then either the father can take them home or let them leave with a nanny/grandparent.
Can we incorporate our traditions (e.g., henna, christening gown)?
Absolutely! I’ve photographed:
- Jewish bris blankets;
- Hindu naamkaran threads;
- Nigerian gel wraps. Just inform me in advance to research respectful posing.
What if we lose our digital files after delivery?
I archive all sessions for 5 years (vs. standard 1–2 years in London). Recovery fee: £50 (waived for album purchases).
What if I go into labour early/late and miss our booked session?
I hold flexible slots for such cases, just notify me within 24 hours.
My baby has severe nappy rash — can you edit it out?
Of course, in post-production, I will do all the corrections.