Safe Newborn Practice
Your babies safety is always the top priority for me, and sessions are baby lead. Your baby will never be forced in to any pose which I do not feel is safe or comfortable for them. My studio is heated prior to your arrival so that it is warm and cosy, and I allow 3 hours for a newborn session, so we have plenty of time for feeding and settling.
A few commonly asked questions and session information below.
Do you have insurance?
Yes, absolutely! It’s vital to not only protect myself but also you, the client too. It should be a necessity for all newborn photographers, unfortunately it is not. Please do check when shopping around for your newborn photographer.
What is the perfect age for a Newborn shoot?
It is best to photograph newborns under 21 days of age as they are still sleepy. All babies is different though. I do however, photograph newborns up to 6 weeks. Please bear in mind that after 2/3 weeks babies become less flexible, less sleepy and for longer periods, and a little more needy of mummy time, making it difficult to get them into the deep sleep, which is needed to create the images you see on my website.
When should I book my newborn session, and how does that work with babies not arriving on time?
Once your baby arrives, please contact me as soon as you can so we can arrange your session date and time.
Do I have to pay a deposit, and what happens if I am ill on the day?
Yes, a deposit of £99 for a session fee is required at the time of booking to secure your spot in my diary. The deposit is non-refundable as it partially covers loss of earnings for the day if you are unable to attend. If you or your baby is unwell, please notify me at least two hours before your session begins, and we can reschedule for the next available day.
How long are the newborn sessions?
Newborn sessions are allocated up to three hours to allow time for feeding and settling. If your baby feeds and settles quickly, the session may take less time.
Can I choose the styling of the session?
Yes! Your session will be customised to your preferences. After paying the deposit, I ask that you send me images from my website that inspire you, and I’ll tailor your session around your selections. On the day, there will be a variety of blanket colours, wraps, and headbands for you to choose from.
What packages do you offer?
I offer high-end Wall Art products that are available as part of Wall Art packages or as standalone purchases. Wall Art packages provide exceptional value for these premium products. Packages are also available to suit smaller budgets. Additionally, keyrings and magnets featuring high-quality prints can be purchased. To ensure the best results, I strongly recommend ordering prints through Helene Simpson Photography.
What if my baby doesn’t sleep?
Most newborns under three weeks of age will fall asleep during the session, especially in my warm studio environment. Top-ups of milk and soothing will usually help. If your baby doesn’t sleep, we can still capture beautiful awake images, though posed shots require a sleeping baby. Following the preparation tips provided below can significantly improve the chances of a sleepy session.
Can I bring along grandparents or an extra friend?
To ensure comfort and focus, only parents and the baby are accommodated during a newborn session. If siblings will be included in the photos, arrangements should be made for someone to bring them in towards the end of the session.
What to expect at your newborn session
Newborn sessions are held Monday–Friday at 10:30 a.m. and are entirely baby-led, ensuring plenty of time for feeding and comforting. Your baby’s safety is my top priority. The studio will be warm to help them settle, so dress accordingly. White noise will play in the background to encourage deep sleep. You will also have access to a variety of props and styling options for your session. Parent and sibling shots, if applicable, will be taken at the end of the session.
Prepping your baby before the session
To help ensure a smooth session, try keeping your baby awake for a while on the morning of the session and plan a feed upon arrival. Dressing them in a simple, loose outfit that doesn’t go over the head can also help. If you use a dummy, bringing it along can be very helpful.
On arrival
A top-up feed before starting is recommended to help settle your baby. If awake, undress them and loosen their nappy before feeding to avoid upsetting them later.
Outfits and props
Newborns are usually photographed in minimal clothing or wraps to focus on their delicate features. If you prefer your baby to remain covered, I have specially designed newborn outfits available.
Family photos
While I cannot accommodate large family portraits due to space, parents and siblings can be included. Siblings can join at either the beginning or the end of the session. Please notify me when booking and we can arrange this upon setting a session date. Keep clothing simple, avoiding bright patterns or logos. Skin-to-skin shots are an option if you’re comfortable.
Siblings
Please let me know in advance if siblings will be included. Simple, neutral-coloured outfits work best for children, and bare feet add a lovely touch.
Feeding baby
Nursing, bottle-feeding, and breaks for soothing are all welcome during the session. If bottle-feeding, bring extra milk just in case.
Poop!
It’s normal for babies to have accidents during a session, and it’s no problem at all. Please bring wipes, extra nappies, and a spare outfit for yourself, just in case.
What to bring
- Baby’s changing bag with nappies, wipes, and spare outfits
- Extra formula if bottle feeding
- A dummy, if used
- Snacks
- Spare clothes for yourself
- Water for yourself
After your session
The balance of your package price is due on the day of the session. Fully edited, watermarked images will be ready to view within 21 days, after which you can choose a package to purchase. Unpurchased images will be permanently deleted after seven days.