First Birthday Photos Without a Cake Smash | Meet My 1st Birthday Sessions

Your baby's first birthday is a pretty big milestone.

Somehow, the tiny newborn you brought home feels like they were here five minutes ago and suddenly you're planning their first birthday.

For lots of families, a Cake Smash is the perfect way to celebrate. They're fun, messy and full of personality and I absolutely love photographing them.

But what if a Cake Smash just isn't really you?

Maybe you'd prefer something simpler and more timeless, without the cake, balloons and mess. Something that focuses completely on your little one and the personality they've developed over their first year.

That's exactly why I've introduced My 1st Birthday Sessions at Phoebe Berridge Photography.

They're not quite a baby anymore…

…but they're not quite a toddler either.

And that's what makes turning one such a lovely age to photograph.

By their first birthday, so much of their personality has appeared. The expressions you instantly recognise, clapping, pointing, waving, crawling at approximately 100mph — and maybe even those first wobbly steps.

A My 1st Birthday Session isn't just about documenting the fact they're turning one.

It's about capturing who they are at one.

A first birthday photoshoot without the cake

My 1st Birthday Sessions are a portrait-led alternative to a traditional Cake Smash.

There's no real cake required. Instead, we'll create a small selection of simple, timeless setups that keep the focus on your little one.

We'll follow their lead throughout the session too.

If they're sitting, we'll photograph them sitting. If they're proudly standing, we'll capture it. And if they've recently discovered walking and have absolutely no intention of staying where I put them… I'll follow them. 😂

There's no milestone checklist they need to have completed before they come. We're simply photographing your baby exactly as they are right now.

Cake Smash or My 1st Birthday?

Don't worry —Cake Smashes aren't going anywhere!

My 1st Birthday Sessions simply give you another option for celebrating the same milestone.

Cake Smash Sessions are fun, messy and playful, with portraits, the cake smash itself and a splash afterwards.

My 1st Birthday Sessions are simpler and more portrait-led, with timeless styling and the focus firmly on your baby.

Neither is better it's simply about choosing which feels most like you and your family.

What should they wear?

Simple outfits photograph beautifully for these sessions.

Think neutral colours, soft textures, knitted rompers, dungarees, simple dresses, bloomers and little cardigans.

You don't necessarily need to buy something new either. An outfit you already love seeing them in can make the photographs even more meaningful when you look back at them.

And you won't be left to work it all out yourself we'll discuss styling before your session.

Parents and siblings can also be included, because although we're celebrating your baby's first birthday, some of the loveliest photographs are often the ones that show their relationship with the people they love most.

Why photograph their first birthday?

If you had newborn photographs, take a second to think about just how different that tiny baby is now.

In twelve months they've gone from sleepy newborn cuddles to smiles, giggles, movement and a whole personality of their own.

It's one of the biggest periods of change they'll ever go through.

The birthday decorations will come down, the presents will eventually disappear into the toy box and the party will probably pass in a slightly chaotic blur.

But the photographs are the bit you get to keep.

My 1st Birthday Photography in Bedfordshire

My 1st Birthday Sessions take place at my home studio in Ickwell, Bedfordshire, welcoming families from Bedfordshire and the surrounding Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire areas.

I'm currently running an introductory offer on My 1st Birthday Sessions from September–December 2026, so if your little one's first birthday is coming up, now is a lovely time to book.

Whether you're looking for an alternative to a traditional Cake Smash or simply want some beautiful portraits to remember exactly who they were at one, I'd love to welcome you into the studio.

And if you're firmly Team Cake Smash?

Don't worry. I've still got the cake ready. 🎂

Phoebe x

Phoebe Berridge Photography
Newborn, baby, maternity & family photographer
Ickwell, Bedfordshire

What Age Is Best for Baby Photos?

One of the questions I'm asked most often by parents is:

"What age is best for baby photos?"

The truth is, there isn't one perfect answer.

Every stage of your baby's first year brings something completely different, from those sleepy newborn cuddles to cheeky smiles, wobbly sitting and first birthday celebrations.

The best age for baby photos simply depends on which chapter of your family's story you'd like to remember.

Let's take a look at what you can expect at each stage.

Newborn (5–21 Days)

Those first few weeks pass by in a blur.

Tiny fingers.

Curled-up sleepy poses.

Soft yawns.

The little details that seem impossible to forget—but somehow change so quickly.

Newborn sessions are all about preserving those precious first days while your baby is still wonderfully tiny.

If you're hoping for traditional newborn portraits, it's best to book your session during pregnancy so your due date can be reserved in the diary.

Around 6–12 Weeks

Many parents think they've missed their opportunity if they didn't book a newborn session.

The truth is, you've simply moved into a different chapter.

Around this age babies become much more alert.

You'll often see beautiful eye contact, stretches, tiny expressions and the beginnings of those first social smiles.

These sessions have a completely different feel, but they're every bit as special.

Around 3–5 Months

Your baby's personality really begins to shine.

Smiles become easier to capture.

They're fascinated by faces.

They love interaction.

And although they may not be sitting independently just yet, they're often happy lying on their back, lifting their heads during tummy time and showing wonderful expressions.

Sitting Babies (Around 6–9 Months)

This is one of my absolute favourite stages to photograph.

Once babies can sit confidently without support, their personalities really come alive.

Expect:

• Big smiles.

• Lots of laughter.

• Tiny claps.

• Curious expressions.

• Gorgeous chunky baby rolls.

This is also the perfect age for my My Baby's First Photoshoot sessions, celebrating everything your little one has learnt during those first months.

First Birthday (10–12 Months)

Can you believe a whole year has almost passed?

Whether you're planning a cake smash or simply want timeless portraits before the big birthday celebrations, this is such a lovely milestone to capture.

By now, many babies are crawling, pulling themselves up or even taking their very first steps.

Every session is full of personality, laughter and curiosity.

So... What Is the Best Age?

Honestly?

There isn't one.

Every chapter of your baby's first year deserves to be remembered.

Some families choose newborn photographs and return again later for My Baby's First Photoshoot or a Cake Smash Session.

Others discover me later in their baby's first year.

Neither is right or wrong.

The important thing is capturing your family's story at a stage that feels meaningful to you.

Because before you know it, your tiny newborn becomes a curious baby...

...and then suddenly a toddler.

Ready to Capture This Chapter?

Whether your baby is just a few days old or already sitting proudly on their own, I'd love to help you capture this special stage.

If you're unsure which session would be best for your family, I'd be more than happy to chat through the options and help you choose the perfect one.

After all, every chapter deserves to be remembered.

When Should You Book Your Newborn Photoshoot?

If you've recently found out you're expecting, congratulations!

Between scans, buying tiny baby clothes, decorating the nursery and preparing for your little one's arrival, booking a newborn photoshoot probably isn't at the top of your to-do list.

In fact, one of the questions I'm asked most often is:

"Should we wait until the baby's born before booking our newborn photoshoot?"

The answer is actually no and here's why.

The Best Time to Book Your Newborn Photoshoot

The ideal time to book your newborn session is during your pregnancy, usually after your 20-week scan.

At this stage, you'll hopefully be feeling more confident, you've shared your exciting news with family and friends, and it's the perfect time to start planning those special first memories.

The good news is that you don't need to know exactly when your baby will arrive.

Instead of booking a fixed session date, I simply reserve space in my diary around your due date.

But Babies Never Arrive on Time!

If there's one thing I've learnt after photographing newborns for more than ten years, it's that babies like to make their own plans!

Some arrive weeks early.

Others keep everyone waiting.

That's completely expected.

Once your little one has arrived, simply get in touch within the first couple of days and we'll arrange the best date for your session together.

This flexible approach means you don't have to worry about trying to predict your baby's birthday months in advance.

Why I Limit the Number of Newborn Sessions Each Month

Unlike other types of photography sessions, newborn photography can't simply be squeezed into the diary.

Because babies arrive when they're ready, I only accept a limited number of due dates each month.

This gives me the flexibility to move sessions if babies arrive earlier or later than expected, while ensuring every family receives the calm, relaxed experience they deserve.

It also means I can dedicate plenty of time to each session without ever rushing your baby.

When Does the Photoshoot Actually Take Place?

Although every baby is different, newborn sessions are usually photographed within the first 5–21 days after birth.

This is often when babies are naturally sleepier, curl up comfortably and are happiest being gently posed and wrapped.

However, if your baby is older than this, please don't panic.

Beautiful photographs can still be created, and every baby deserves to have their story captured, whatever their age.

What Happens After I Book?

Once you've booked your newborn session, you can relax knowing everything is taken care of.

Over the coming weeks, I'll send you everything you need to prepare, including helpful information about what to bring, what to expect and how to make the most of your session.

When your baby arrives, all you need to do is let me know, and we'll confirm your session date together.

It's designed to be as simple and stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus on what matters most your growing family.

What If I've Already Had My Baby?

Don't worry you haven't necessarily missed your opportunity.

If your baby has already arrived, it's always worth getting in touch.

While I can't guarantee availability, I'll always do my very best to accommodate last-minute enquiries whenever possible.

And if your little one has already outgrown the newborn stage, my My Baby's First Photoshoot sessions are a wonderful way to capture the next exciting chapter of their first year.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a new baby can feel overwhelming, but booking your newborn photoshoot doesn't have to be.

By reserving your due date during pregnancy, you'll have one less thing to think about once your little one arrives, knowing your baby's first professional photographs are already planned.

If you're expecting and would like to find out more about my relaxed, baby-led newborn sessions, I'd love to hear from you.

Together, we'll create beautiful memories you'll treasure for a lifetime.

Looking for a newborn photographer in Bedfordshire?

Phoebe Berridge Photography specialises in calm, baby-led newborn photography from a purpose-built studio in Ickwell, Bedfordshire. Families travel from Biggleswade, Sandy, Bedford, Hitchin, St Neots, Huntingdon, Letchworth, Baldock and across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire to capture their baby's precious first days in a safe, relaxed environment.

August at Phoebe Berridge Photography

New Beginnings, Back To School & Autumn Adventures

Welcome to the August edition of Moments with Phoebe.

I don't know about you, but I always find August a bit of a strange month.

The summer holidays are in full swing, the days are still long, and yet there's that little feeling that a new season is just around the corner.

As parents, we spend so much of the year looking forward to the summer holidays, and then suddenly we're buying new school shoes, labelling uniform and wondering how another school year has come around so quickly.

It's one of the reasons I love photography so much.

Photographs have a way of freezing moments that otherwise seem to disappear in the blink of an eye. The missing tooth, the favourite teddy, the excitement of starting school, the cuddles that become a little less frequent as children grow older.

These moments may feel ordinary now, but one day they'll become some of your most treasured memories.

New For 2026: Back to School Mini Sessions

This August I'm excited to be launching something brand new.

My Back-to-School Mini Sessions have been designed to celebrate the start of a brand-new school year with simple, timeless portraits of your children.

Whether they're heading off to Nursery for the first time, starting Reception, moving up to Secondary School or preparing for college, every new school year marks another milestone worth remembering.

The idea for these sessions came from my own experience as a step-mum to Coen and Flynn.

Every year it seems to get harder to get a nice photograph of the boys before they head back to school. One doesn't want their photo taken, the other is pulling a face, and before you know it the morning rush has taken over!

Then a few months later the school photographs arrive, and we find ourselves thinking, "Oh..." 🤣

One child looks like they've forgotten how to smile, the other's tie is wonky, someone's jumper is sitting strangely, and it just doesn't quite capture them as we know them.

I wanted to create an opportunity for parents to have beautiful, natural portraits of their children before the school year begins—while the uniforms are still pristine, the shoes are polished and the excitement (or nerves!) of a brand-new school year is still there.

One of the biggest reasons I've decided to offer these sessions is because I know how difficult it can be to get professional photographs of siblings together once they're attending different schools.

These sessions provide the perfect opportunity to capture them together before another school year begins.

And let's be honest... uniforms never stay this clean for long! 🤣

Could Your Outfit Choices Be Ruining Your Photos?

One of the most common questions I receive before family sessions is:

"What should we wear?"

The good news is that you don't need matching white shirts and jeans.

The not-so-good news is that a few outfit choices can unintentionally distract from your photographs.

Large logos, cartoon characters, neon colours and lots of competing patterns can all draw attention away from the people in the image.

Instead, think coordination rather than matching.

Soft neutrals, earthy tones, creams, sage greens, soft blues and blush pinks work beautifully together and help keep the focus exactly where it belongs—on your family.

The best family photographs are the ones where you notice the people first, not the clothes.

 Client Love

One of my favourite parts of every month is hearing from families after they've received their photographs.

This month's review comes from Becky following her newborn session with her two daughters:

"This was our fourth visit to Phoebe for some newborn photos including our two-year-old. The photos, as usual, were absolutely beautiful and Phoebe captured exactly what we wanted.

Phoebe is so patient and always puts us at ease, especially this time with a difficult toddler who did not want to sit for any photos. But Phoebe excelled and got us some gorgeous photos with both our girls that we will cherish forever.

Can't wait to book in again and we would not go anywhere else for our family photos."

Thank you so much, Becky, for your kind words and for trusting me to capture so many special milestones for your family over the years.

Thinking Ahead To First Birthdays

It might sound a little crazy to be talking about first birthdays already, but if your little one is due to turn one this autumn or winter, now is actually the perfect time to start thinking about their Cake Smash or First Birthday Portrait Session.

One of the biggest surprises for many parents is just how quickly the diary fills towards the end of the year.

With Autumn Mini Sessions, Christmas Mini Sessions and family sessions all taking place, weekend availability becomes much more limited than during the quieter months.

If your baby is celebrating their first birthday from October onwards, I'd recommend getting in touch sooner rather than later to secure your preferred date.

Because whether you choose a cake smash, a simple portrait session or family photographs to mark the occasion, turning one is a milestone worth remembering.

Autumn Mini Sessions Are Now Open

Autumn Mini Sessions officially launched at the end of July and I'm so excited to see bookings already coming in.

These sessions are always one of my favourites, combining beautiful autumn colours, family cuddles, dogs welcome and, of course, plenty of leaf throwing fun.

If you've been meaning to take a look, now is the perfect time to check the remaining availability.

Phoebe's Favourite

This month's favourite is simple:

Getting in the photo.

As parents, we're often the ones taking the photographs rather than being in them.

So this month, I challenge you to hand the camera to someone else, set up the self-timer or ask for a quick family photograph.

Not because it needs to be perfect.

Not because everyone is looking at the camera.

But because one day your children will treasure seeing you in their memories.

Looking Ahead

As we head into the second half of the year, there's plenty happening at Phoebe Berridge Photography.

🎒 Back To School Mini Sessions are now open for booking and are perfect for capturing the excitement of a brand-new school year.

🍂 Autumn Mini Sessions have officially launched and are already filling up.

🎄 Christmas Mini Sessions may still feel a little way off, but November will be here before we know it!

The final few months of the year are always some of my favourites, filled with milestones, family memories and plenty of familiar faces returning to the studio.

I can't wait to capture more special moments with you all.

Phoebe x

June at Phoebe Berridge Photography

Moments with Phoebe

Welcome to the very first edition of Moments with Phoebe!

As we head into summer, I wanted to take a moment to share what's been happening behind the scenes at the studio, some helpful photography tips, and a few exciting updates for the months ahead.

Why Summer is Perfect for Outdoor Family Photographs

Summer is one of my favourite times of year for outdoor sessions. The longer evenings, warmer weather and beautiful natural colours create the perfect backdrop for relaxed family photographs.

Some of my favourite local locations include Ickwell Green, RSPB The Lodge in Sandy and Chicksands Woods. Each offers a slightly different feel, but all provide plenty of space for children to explore while we capture natural, genuine moments together.

If you're planning a family session this summer, think soft, coordinated colours rather than matching outfits. Creams, soft blues, blush pinks, sage greens and neutral tones all photograph beautifully outdoors.

A Reminder to Get in the Photos

One thing I hear from parents time and time again is:

"I don't like having my photograph taken."

As a photographer, I completely understand. However, years from now, your children won't be looking for perfection. They'll simply want photographs that include you.

Whether you're booking a family session, cake smash or newborn shoot, I always encourage parents to step in front of the camera for at least a few images. These often become the photographs families treasure the most.

New VIP Sitter Sessions

If you've previously visited me for a newborn or baby session, you may already have heard about my VIP Sitter Sessions.

These short sessions are designed for babies who can sit unaided but aren't yet walking, making them the perfect way to capture another milestone during baby's first year.

The sessions are exclusively available to returning clients and have recently been expanded to offer more flexible weekday availability.

Looking Ahead

Summer is already proving to be a busy season and I'm looking forward to welcoming both new and returning families into the studio and out on location over the coming months.

Thank you for continuing to support my small business and for allowing me to capture such special moments for your families. It truly means the world.

If you'd like to hear more photography tips, studio updates and exclusive offers, don't forget to sign up to Moments with Phoebe and join me again next month.

Phoebe x

Phoebe Berridge Photography
Newborn, Baby & Family Photographer in Bedfordshire

What not to do during your family photoshoot

If you're investing in family photography to capture and remember these wonderful years… You need to be beyond delighted with your images!

I'm always giving advice about outfits, posing, preparing and locations but what about what you shouldn't do?

That's pretty important too so let me tell you what you need to avoid doing if you want the best family photography possible.

DON'T: Time watch

I'm happy to spend half an hour with you or 90 mintues with you…. It doesn't matter to me in the least. What matters to me is that you and your family enjoy the experience and we get some great photographs. If some members of your family need a little more time – so be it. I only book one family session on any day…. Purely because I don't want to be in a hurry.

DON'T: Nag the kids

I know, I know… You're worried that the investment will be wasted if your kids don't behave. PLEASE don't worry. I've got you! I took my first professional photograph of a child when I was 18 years old. And much as I look young (ha!), I can tell you that's a LOT of years ago. I can literally count on one hand the number of kids who I've not been able to get a great photo of in those 10 years.

DON'T: Stress about how you look

This is a big one. If you look stressed and uncomfortable, then it will show in your photos. I get it, I'm a recovering photo-avoider myself, but I do it now because I want those gorgeous family images too and whenever we have a family portrait I always love the images after because I just relax and go with it.

Once you get to your session try your best to relax into the fun of playing and loving your family. Forget all your hang-ups, once you're in front of the camera, leave it to me to get all your best angles. 

DON'T: Always look at the camera

The BEST photos, the ones that make my clients cry, are always the unposed photos. Those moments in between setups when everyone is interacting with each other, having fun and showing love. Your family photography session is not about standing, posing and looking at the camera. It's about celebrating you as a family! It's about me capturing the special connections you have with each other! So laugh, giggle, hug, kiss, make loving eyes at your partner, chase each other, muck about... This is where the magic is. 

DON'T: Worry that the clothes will get dirty

The number one thing I need to do (even before taking a single picture) is to make sure everyone is calm, confident and relaxed. While I know that you likely bought new clothes for the occasion if any of us stresses about them getting dirty, then that's just going to interrupt the atmosphere. Try if you can to release all worry about messiness (bring a spare change if you need it), and also trust me that I can edit out most scuffs and scrapes! 

DON'T: Practice the kid's smiles

And while we're here... This one drives me nuts!! Your kids don't need to 'practice' their smiles before the session… The smiles they already have are beautiful! Perhaps not their regular 'photo' smiles, sometimes they can be a little forced and weird kind of smiles I get out of children are real and joyous. These are smiles of kids having fun! I do this day in day out so don’t panic I have ways of getting them to relax and do their natural smiles without us having to remind them about it.

DON'T: Stress... Before, during or after

The number one aim for me as a family photographer is to make the experience stress free and easy.  I will help you all the way through preparation, on the day and after. From booking through to hanging your pictures on your wall – I’ve got your back.

Whilst you're here, why not drop me a message  so we can start chatting about YOUR family photography session.

The Cooper family experience with Phoebe Berridge Photography

Why was having professional photographs important to you?

 Having professional photographs was important to me as they capture so much more than I would be able to myself. It is a special experience to have newborn photos taken.

Tell us about your experience with Phoebe Berridge Photography? 

My experience with Phoebe was amazing. I couldn't fault phoebe and she couldn't do anymore for you. She is amazing at her job and so gentle and trusting with your little one.

What does it mean to you to have meaningful memories?

Having the photos done for me was so I can treasure those memories from when she was newborn and how tiny she was. Also to have perfect pictures around our home.

What do you love about your images?

I love everything about our images. I love how flawless they are but at the same time how natural they look. I love the colours and the fact there is a lot of choice and different set ups for the photos too.

How important for you was it to trust your photographer?

It was especially important to me to be able to trust my photographer because of having my baby premature and being very small, having to leave her in hospital was very hard so i needed somebody I could trust to be able to give my baby over to somebody else again after that.

What did you trust about Phoebe Berridge Photography?

Phoebe was very trustworthy, welcoming and gentle. She is a natural with babies and she took her time. She didn't rush the process. She enjoyed having cuddles with baby rather than just doing pictures and that be the experience over.

What would you tell others about Phoebe Berridge Photography?

I am constantly recommending phoebe berridge photography to my friends/family when they ask who did our newborn photos. Word of mouth goes a long way.

The Sizer/Turner family experience with Phoebe Berridge Photography

Why was having professional photographs important to you?

Because I honestly think I’ll only have one baby, so needed to capture it all, beginning to end- which I did through your amazing photography. 

Tell us about your experience with Phoebe Berridge Photography? 

Outstanding from start to finish, my baby girl was tiny and I stressed about anyone holding her. But she was such a pro and professional put me and Dolly at ease. 

What does it mean to you to have meaningful memories?

Everything, she’s changing so fast I needed to capture her beautiful new born stage and be able to share them with family.

What do you love about your images?

The happiness that radiates through Dolly, she was so at ease and handled with love. 

How important for you was it to trust your photographer?

With such a small baby, my doubts were put to rest when phoebe explained her skills and courses she had been on. 

What did you trust about Phoebe Berridge Photography?

Her abilities to capture the moment perfectly, from seeing her other work. 

What would you tell others about Phoebe Berridge Photography?

Of her outstanding skills in photography, and how enjoyable the whole experience was.

The Torne/Palmer family experience with Phoebe Berridge Photography

 Why was having professional photographs important to you?

Professional photos were important so in the future I have the opportunity to look back and see how little my baby was and shoe him what he looked like when he’s older.

Tell us about your experience with Phoebe Berridge Photography? 

Was such a lovely experience! She was so patient and I had so much trust in her with my baby I knew he was in safe hands.

What does it mean to you to have meaningful memories?

Meaningful memories are so important because in hard times you can look back and remember the good times.

What do you love about your images?

I love everything about them! The quality is amazing and how nature they are

How important for you was it to trust your photographer?

So so important! To allow someone to handle your newborn baby you have to know you trust them and I knew that straight away.

What did you trust about Phoebe Berridge Photography?

I trusted the quality of the images and safety of my baby, how clean the premises were.

What would you tell others about Phoebe Berridge Photography?

That she’s amazing and I would not hesitate in recommending her!

The Jeeves experience with Phoebe Berridge Photography

Why was having professional photographs important to you?

Since our son was born we have taken many photos but we do not profess to being experts at it and having seen some of Phoebe’s previous work we wanted some professional images that we could use both in our home and for gifts for others. We’ve also not had many photos of us as a family and really wanted some good images of the whole family.

Tell us about your experience with Phoebe Berridge Photography? 

Phoebe was wonderful, her studio is the perfect setting and allows for both baby and parents to relax throughout the session. The pre-information prior to our shoot was really helpful. Phoebe was so patient in ensuring the photos were taken at the right time and there was no feeling of being rushed. Phoebe strikes the perfect balance of professionalism in her work whilst creating a real rapport with her customers.

What does it mean to you to have meaningful memories?

Everything, we were blown away at our viewing session by the beauty of the shots and the photos we have had taken will allow us to carry these memories for the rest of our lives.

What do you love about your images?

The images show off our perfect little baby boy and make him look so peaceful and content. Thanks to Phoebe’s imagination and forward planning we have images of our son that we never would have dreamed of creating ourselves.

How important for you was it to trust your photographer?

Hugely important. Phoebe created an instant rapport with the whole family and her communications with us prior to our session put us at ease and answered any questions we had before we arrived.

What did you trust about Phoebe Berridge Photography?

Having seen some of Phoebe’s previous work on Facebook we were confident that the images Phoebe would take of our son would be of the highest quality and we were proved right.

What would you tell others about Phoebe Berridge Photography?

If you were thinking of a booking a newborn shoot for your child then look no further than Phoebe Berridge Photography, you will not regret it! The whole experience from start to finish was an absolute pleasure and we are thrilled with the images we have of our baby boy. Thanks so much Phoebe!

Why existing in photographs is important?

I recently did a survey asking a series of questions related to taking photographs, being in photographs and why they are important. Below are some of the questions and results I received..

Just take a minute and think what you’ve answers would be to the questions, it’s so important to create these beautiful memories, capture them and print them. This doesn’t have to be with a photographer either even just phone photographers, make sure you are existing in images.

As a child I can remember lots of occasions at my grandparents where we would sit with the photo albums out, looking back on old photographs which were from many years ago, before I was a baby. Learning who the family members were and hearing about all the old stories from when my grandparents were younger and listening to stories of my mum growing up as child too. I feel this generation is loosing that beauty, people aren’t printing photographs anymore and if we don’t print them did those moments ever exist? How will further generations hear and see your beautiful stories.

Here are a few of the survey results -

Question:How many pictures do you take of the people you love on your phone?

Results: Lots: 78% Some:18% Hardy Any: 4%

Question: Do you print your photographs?

Results: Yes: 55% No: 45%

Question: Are you in enough pictures with your loved ones?

Results: No 100%

Question: What stops you from being in the pictures?

Results: Never anyone else there to take the picture so I can be in it 59%

Don't feel comfortable in pictures 18%

Never know what to do and feel silly 5%

Don't like being photographed 9%

Other 9%

Question: What is the consequence of you NOT being in your family portraits?

This for me was the most important question, I feel this would have gone a lot of people thinking and I definitely think the results show this too..

Results: It looks like I was never there, Everyone who answered my survey in their own words put that their family, friends and children would think they were never there as they don’t exist in any photographs.

We live in a generation where we are all on our phones these day, make sure you are using that time to also capture those all important moments. Grab a friend ask them to capture that moment with your family. Make sure you exist in your photographs just as much as your family. I know we’re not all lovers of being in front of the camera, but set yourself a challenge to exist in at least one photograph for every month of 2020, print it and pop it into a photo album.

#BE KIND

Milk Bath Sessions now available 2020

I’ve been super excited to launch our first new session for 2020.

Our milk bath sessions are now live and available to purchase. I’m sure a few of you are wondering what on earth is a milk bath session?

I thought a blog would be the best way to talk about the new session, show off some recent images I’ve also had the pleasure of capturing and show you why I am totally loving these new sessions.

Filling the bathtub with warm water and adding our vegan friendly lavender scented milk bath mix. Giving the bath water that perfect milky look, leaving baby with soft skin along with smelling beautiful at the end of your session.

You have the option of flowers, foliage or fruit for your session this is added once we’ve settled little one into the water.

Our milk bath session is perfect for  baby’s who can sit unaided must be a confident sitter. This is the ideal alternative to our cake smash sessions, for your baby’s first birthday too. 

I want you to be totally relaxed for your session and not have to worry about a thing.  By supply everything for the session. Your session is made totally personal to you, once you’ve booked a session with me we will arrange a pre consulation call to discuss colours and ideas.

I’ve had so many mummy’s say oh I wish we could have one but they are for girls! No absolutely not, they work perfect for boys too. Foilage looks amazing and the splashing they create with the milk is just super cute.

Take a look below at some recent milk bath images. If you think this would be perfect for your little one please do get in touch to discuss details and get a date booked in.

The Lovetts - returning clients

I cannot express how grateful I am for all my returning clients. But their’s a family who really have helped my business grow and form the shape it has today. My first paid wedding was with the love’s and from here our connection grew and grew. I’m now known as their family photographer and also know everyone when I turn up to an event which is a lovely feeling. The Lovett family who I have now done 6 weddings for 1 maternity session, 2 newborn sessions, 1 christening, 2 cake smash sessions, and lots of family session too.

It’s safe to say we really have connected well over the years and I have had lots of lovely reviews from them all and friends recommended to me also. Having returning clients like this make my job so worth it, knowing that they all trust and love what I do so much to continue to use me year in and out. For every occasion and every new milestone moment they want to capture.

Being able to connect with clients like this is also amazing as it helps me create those beautiful memories for you and they put their full trust into me and leave me to come up with the creative ideas and just follow my lead which is a lovely thing to watch. It makes each shoot easier too as they know me so well they already know what iI;m likely to ask them to do next.

Why book a family shoot?

Do you exist in photographs with your children and family? Are you always the one behind the camera?

It’s so important to exist in print to cherish those beautiful moments with your loved ones. Show them off to your family and friends.

We all grow and change each year and before you know it they are off to uni. How many images do you have in your house with your family? How many of them do you love?

Booking a professional family photo-shoot is so important, it lets you create new memories together. It gives you beautiful images to cherish for a life time whilst being able to look at them every day and think wow I love that. As a mum especially it gives you the opportunity to be in the photographs too. 

I hear from too many mums how they are always behind the camera, or dad doesn’t take a look image. Be involved, have photographers with your children and your partner. Exist in print and create those beautiful memories to treasure for a life time. 

Why to book a baby's first photo-shoot?

Watching your baby grow is such an incredible experience. But it happens so quickly. It probably feels like just yesterday you found out you were carrying this bundle of joy. There is so much to organize before baby arrives and sometimes photographs aren’t on that list of things to remember.

Having newborn photographs there is such a short window for this most photographers including myself will only do them within the first 14 days of birth. As this is when baby is most sleepy, calm and relaxed.

Which is why in 2018 we introduced my baby’s first photo-shoot ideal for all babies 5 weeks to 12 months old. Meaning you never need to worry it’s to late to capture beautiful images of your baby. 

Each of our my baby’s first photo-shoot sessions are different, this comes down to their age and what baby is able to do. But none the less they are all still amazing and leave with beautiful images which is my true aim.

Your baby will change every day from the moment they are born, cherish every second of that and capture it as often as possible with images you can share with them later in life and look back on for the rest of yours. It’s a beautiful thing watching your baby grow, change and laugh.

So if you’ve missed out on newborn images or you haven’t yet got round to book your baby in for images do so today and I promise you wont be disappointed. 

Why to book a newborn session with a professional photographer?

You are beginning your new chapter as Parents and you have this beautiful new bundle of joy. Your baby is your world and you want to treasure every single second you have with them. Photographs are such an important and stunning way to do this.

Photographing your baby whilst they are still so tiny and precious is something you really can only do once. To have something to look back on and show them as they grow, change and become their very own character.

Doing this with a professional photographer means you get to enjoy the experience of it all. Sit back with a hot cup of tea, watch your baby in all their beauty, take in every second and be reminded how you created this gorgeous little human.

Being able to be captured in some of the photographs also along with your family, capturing moments you will only get once and giving you pieces of art to display and share with family and friends.

It’s also important to go to a professional as they will have experience in working with babies, children and families. Having taken the correct training and have the right understanding on what they should and shouldn’t be doing whilst caring for your baby.

Providing a service with beautiful handmade products and giving you personal images to you and your family. Whilst maintaining a professional manner. They will have the correct equipment to use and insurances too.

If you think a newborn session would be right for you, why not book yours today

Why to book a maternity session?

Becoming a new mum is such an overwhelming and amazing experience. It comes with so many feelings and emotions. The whole journey from start to finish is such an incredible one which deserves to be captured.  Watching your bump grow each day, feeling your baby for the first time is something so special. 

I hear from so many new mums’ how they miss their bump once baby has arrived and how they didn’t realize how quickly their body has changed and adjusted to this new chapter in their life motherhood.

Which is why I believe it’s so important to capture this wonderful part of your journey. Giving you beautiful and elegance images to look back on over time and relive that joyful period where it all began. 

It also gives you the opportunity to get glammed up and feel amazing in front of the camera. With a range of stunning dresses to wear during our sessions or maybe even bring one of your own. I will make sure you are feeling your best to document your journey to motherhood. 

Book your maternity session today and treasure those memories of where it all began.