Newborn Photoshoot Preparation: Your Essex Mum’s Survival Guide

1. Timing is Everything

Ideal window: 5-14 days old

• Why? Babies still curl naturally and sleep deeply.
• Essex mum tip: Book your session before birth to secure your limited newborn slots.

2. The Goldilocks Feeding Plan

90 minutes before:

• Offer a full feed (but don’t overfeed)
• Pro trick: Bring a bottle — even if breastfeeding — for a quick top-up mid-session.

3. Dress for (Your) Success

For baby:

• A simple vest (avoid tight bodysuits that leave marks)
• Loose swaddle blanket for the car ride

For parents:
✅ Flattering: Soft neutrals (cream, grey, blush)
✅ Timeless: Flowy dresses, well-fitted knits
❌ Avoid: Logos, neon colours, busy patterns

4. The Buckhurst Hill Studio Survival Kit

Pack:

• Dummy (even if unused—it’s a lifesaver for settling)
• Nappies + sensitive wipes (studio lights can stimulate digestion!)
• A change of clothes for you (spit-up happens)

5. Sibling Strategy

If bringing older children:

• Schedule for their best time (post-nap, post-snack)
• Have a partner/grandparent on standby to take them home early

6. Temperature Tricks

• Keep your car extra warm en route (sleepy babies transfer more easily)
• My studio is pre-heated to 24°C — dress in light layers

7. The “No-Stress” Outfit Change

• I provide all wraps/headbands—just bring:
  • A sentimental item (grandma’s christening gown, dad’s childhood teddy)
  • Nothing with tight elastics

8. Parent Shots Made Easy

• Mums: Schedule a trial hair/makeup run (I partner with Bloomsbury Bridal in Loughton)
• Dads: Roll up sleeves + unbutton collars last-minute for a relaxed look

9. The Essex Traffic Buffer

• Aim to arrive 20 minutes early (M11 delays are unpredictable!)
• Free client parking behind my Buckhurst Hill studio

10. Embrace the Unexpected

• Most magical shots happen between poses:
  • Stretches
  • Tiny yawns
  • Grasping your finger

Bonus: Your Timeline

Sample Morning Session:
🕘 9:00 AM: Feed at home
🕙 9:30 AM: Depart (keep baby undressed in car seat)
🕥 9:50 AM: Arrive, settle in nursing nook
🕙 10:00 AM: Session begins (with coffee for you!)

“Irene made us feel so relaxed — our photos captured the love without the stress!”
— The Reynolds Family, Chigwell

Ready for a Stress-Free Session?

📅 Book Your Newborn Photoshoot Today (limited slots available)
📍 Serving Buckhurst Hill, Loughton, Chigwell & all Essex