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Timeless, maternity, baby and cake smash photography, covering Andover, Basingstoke, Newbury, Salisbury, Tidworth, Stockbridge, Southampton and surrounding areas of Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire

As a baby and family photographer dedicated to capturing authentic moments, I am thrilled to share ideas for this milestone. In this blog post, we'll explore nature-inspired activities and introduce an exclusive offer for my free online gift registry for a cake smash photoshoot in Hampshire, Berkshire, Wiltshire, and beyond. Let's embark on a journey to create a beautiful first birthday celebration!

Nature-Inspired Themes:

As someone with a previous career in the environmental sector, I always push for nature. I recommend opting for a nature-inspired theme for your little one's first birthday, connecting them with the beauty of the outdoors. Themes like "Woodland Wonder" or "Garden Glee" are a great idea for encouraging your little one to make the best start in becoming a nature lover.

Outdoor Play Zones:

Opt for an outdoor setting to create a natural and spacious play zone for the little ones. Soft blankets on the grass, wooden toys, and organic fabrics will let the children explore the wonders of the outdoors. A simple picnic in the park with friends and family is really all you need.

Smiling one year old sitting in a vintage bath tub on a cream fur rug, with legs poking out.

Cake Smash and Splash Photoshoots:

I am so grateful to have the job I do. I would love to help you celebrate this milestone with a comprehensive cake smash and splash photoshoot package, capturing the unbridled joy of your baby's first birthday. Embrace simplicity as we focus on genuine delight and preserve these authentic moments. I always include some classic baby portraits before the cake comes out, so you have a lovely variety of images to display in your home. I also provide beautiful wall art - framed prints, canvases, acrylic prints and more. Cute velvet covered albums are also a big hit with these baby photoshoots. Learn more on my dedicated Cake Smash & Splash page.

Babies' Limited Awareness:

Considering that babies may not be fully aware of their first birthday, consider taking advantage of the gifts people want to give. Instead of unnecessary presents, encourage family and friends to contribute to a shared gift fund. I provide a free online photoshoot gift registry for your cake smash and splash photoshoot. Redirecting the funds toward capturing these precious moments ensures a lasting and cherished memory.

Interactive Nature Activities:

Instead of traditional entertainment, incorporate interactive nature activities into the celebration. A gentle storytelling session under the trees, a simple flower-potting station, or a nature scavenger hunt can add a meaningful touch to the day.

Young family crouching amidst the flowers in the bluebell woods.

Conclusion:

Celebrate your baby's first birthday with a focus on nature, simplicity, and authentic moments, highlighted through a special cake smash and splash photoshoot. I am honored to offer this unique service to families in Hampshire, Berkshire, Wiltshire, and beyond. Let's create a joyous celebration that not only leaves lasting memories but also involves the beauty of the world around us. Explore my Cake Smash & Splash page and join me in capturing the pure wonder of your baby's first birthday.


Introduction:

Greetings to all the wonderful families in Hampshire, Berkshire, Wiltshire, Surrey and beyond! As a maternity, baby, cake smash, and family photographer, I understand the importance of preserving precious moments for a lifetime. However, my passion extends beyond capturing beautiful images – it also involves a commitment to sustainability. In this blog post, let me share with you how I try to run my photography business in a way that aligns with environmental consciousness and contributes to the well-being of our planet.

Before becoming a professional photographer, I worked in the environmental sector. I studied Environmental Management at undergraduate and postgraduate level, before starting my career. I worked for the Department of the Environment, then the Campaign to Protect Rural England and finally RenewableUK, formerly the British Wind Energy Association. My hobby has always been photography and after having our two children, I decided to have a change of career and so started H Jones Photography in 2017.

Any activity will have some sort of environmental impact. It is very rare for a business not to have some kind of negative impact, through its use of resources, including energy and production processes or supporting local suppliers, thus reducing the need for excess transportation. I am constantly learning new ways to make my photography business more sustainable and below I have listed some of the things I am doing already. If you have any suggestions, I would love to hear them! Get in touch via my Contact Page.


Eco-Friendly Practices:

1. Energy Efficiency:

Every photoshoot is an opportunity to create lasting memories, but in my garden photography studio near Andover, I need to use electricity, for heating, lighting and running my equipment. As I have a garden studio, I have complete control over where the energy comes from for our electricity. I choose an electricity supplier which provides energy from 100% renewable power. This provides all of the energy requirements for my business, including heating. In doing so, I strive to minimise my carbon footprint without compromising on the quality of your photographs.

2. Sustainable Printing:

Preserving memories often involves turning them into tangible keepsakes. I collaborate with environmentally responsible printing labs that use recycled and FSC-certified materials. Your beautiful family portraits and baby photos can be cherished in a way that doesn't harm the environment. The professional photo lab I choose to use, Digitalab, is committed to minimising the impact of their operations on the environment and pledge to demonstrate a leadership in the critically important area of sustainability. From their production processes, internal procedures, purchasing policies, sourcing of materials and distribution of products, they promise to continuously scrutinise these operations for improvement and consideration of environmental considerations.

Now for the very exciting part! For every wonderful piece of Wall Art or Framed Print you purchase from me, a tree will be planted to help replace the wood and energy used in construction of that product!


Digital Alternatives:

1. Online Galleries and Delivery:

Embracing the digital age, I provide online galleries for you to view and share your images conveniently. This not only reduces the need for excessive paper usage but also eliminates the carbon footprint associated with physical product delivery. Your photos can be accessed and enjoyed at the click of a button via my super cute Mobile Gallery App.

2. Virtual Consultations:

In an effort to reduce unnecessary travel and carbon emissions, I offer virtual consultations for planning and discussing your photoshoot. This not only saves time but also contributes to a more sustainable approach to client communication.


Props and Set Design:

1. Upcycling and Repurposing:

I believe that beautiful photos can be created without contributing to excessive waste. I don't buy loads of props and many of those used in my cake smash and newborn baby photoshoots are sourced from thrift stores or repurposed items. This also adds a vintage touch to your photos and I even have a little wooden chair that I sat in as a child!

2. Minimalism and Nature-Inspired Themes:

By embracing minimalist aesthetics and nature-inspired themes, I aim to create timeless photographs that focus on the subject of the photo - your family - without the need for excessive props or elaborate setups. My philosophy is very much, "less is more".


Community Involvement:

1. Supporting Local and Sustainable Businesses:

I actively collaborate with local businesses that share a commitment to sustainability. From sourcing props to partnering with eco-friendly printing labs, my goal is to contribute to the local economy while promoting environmental responsibility. For example, I choose to buy hand-made knitted baby hats and outfits from local crafters, rather than buying mass-produced items from global corporations, such as those beginning with an A...

I run seasonal outdoor photoshoots in the beautiful Hampshire countryside. I run Bluebell Photoshoots in the Spring and Lavender Field Photoshoots in the Summer.

2. Charity Initiatives:

I am currently investigating the best way to donate a portion of the proceeds from my photography business to supporting local environmental initiatives and charities. I believe in giving back to the community and helping to create a more sustainable future for generations to come.


Conclusion:

In the heart of Test Valley, where nature's beauty surrounds us, I am dedicated to capturing your family's special moments while minimising our impact on the environment. By choosing my photography services, you are not only investing in timeless memories but also supporting a business committed to sustainable practices. Let's create beautiful memories together while taking steps towards a greener and more sustainable future.

If you're ready to embark on a photography journey that aligns with your values, contact me today for a consultation. Together, let's capture moments and preserve the planet in the process.

Celebrate the Holidays in Style: Book Your Magical Christmas Photoshoot in Hampshire!

The most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner, and as a professional photographer based in the Andover area, I'm thrilled to offer you the opportunity to capture your family's holiday magic like never before. With my specially crafted Christmas photoshoots, you can transform your cherished moments into timeless works of art that will adorn your walls and albums for generations to come - also ideal for Christmas presents!

Why Choose a Magical Christmas Photoshoot?

Christmas is a time of togetherness, joy, and making memories with your loved ones. What better way to preserve those magical moments than with a uniquely designed Christmas photoshoot? My goal is to encapsulate the spirit of the season while highlighting the unique beauty of your family. From candid laughter to heartfelt embraces, my expertly curated photos will tell your story in the most enchanting way. I include some classic portraits along with one Magical image, where your child, pet or family members are transported into the snowy scene, snuggled into a resting reindeer, using the magic of Photoshop!

Personalised Experience: Your Vision, Our Expertise

Your family's story is unique, and my Magical Christmas Photoshoots are designed to reflect that individuality. I collaborate with you to understand your vision and preferences, ensuring that every element of the shoot aligns with your unique family. Whether you envision a classic formal portrait or a playful candid moment, I have the expertise to bring your ideas to life.

Unforgettable Details: Creating Lasting Memories

From the twinkle in your child's eye as they decorate the tree to the shared laughter during a snowball fight, it's the small details that make the holiday season so special. I specialise in capturing these genuine, fleeting moments that truly encapsulate the essence of your family's love and connection.

Booking Your Christmas Photoshoot

My calendar is filling up quickly as families in Hampshire are eager to secure their spot for this unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking to create Christmas Cards, update your family portraits, or simply capture the joy of the season, my Christmas photoshoots are the perfect choice.

Contact Me Today

Don't miss out on the opportunity to create lasting memories that will warm your heart year after year. Contact me today to discuss your Christmas photoshoot, customise your experience, and secure your preferred date. Together, let's make this holiday season truly magical with photographs that will be treasured for a lifetime. Book now and let the enchantment begin!

Introduction:

One of the most exciting aspects of planning a child photoshoot is choosing the perfect outfits for your little one. The clothing you select can play a significant role in the overall look and feel of the photos. To help you achieve picture-perfect results, I've put together this guide on what to wear for your child's photoshoot. Whether you're opting for a classic portrait or a more casual, candid session, these tips will ensure your child looks their best and feels comfortable throughout the shoot.

  1. Keep It Comfortable:

Above all else, comfort is key when dressing your child for a photoshoot. Kids are more likely to be relaxed and happy if they're comfortable in their clothing. Avoid outfits with scratchy tags, tight elastics, or anything that may cause discomfort. Remember, a happy child equals genuine smiles and natural expressions in the photos.

  1. Classic or Casual? Match the Theme:

Consider the style and theme of your photoshoot when choosing outfits. If you're going for a classic portrait, traditional, timeless clothing such as dresses, suits, or elegant outfits for your child can be a great choice. For a more casual, playful session, opt for everyday attire like jeans, T-shirts, and trainers - although I always suggest bare feet for a studio portrait - we want to see those tiny toes!

  1. Coordinate but Don't Match:

Coordinating outfits can make the photos visually appealing without being too matchy-matchy. Choose a colour scheme or a theme that complements your child's personality and the setting. Mix and match colours, textures, and patterns to add depth and interest to the photos. Avoid dressing everyone in identical outfits, as this can look unnatural. However, everyone in jeans and a pastel t-shirt would look great, as would jeans and darker toned t-shirt.

  1. Avoid Busy Patterns and Logos:

Busy patterns and logos can be distracting in photos and may take the focus away from your child's beautiful face and personality. Opt for clothing with simple, subtle patterns or solid colors. This helps keep the attention where it belongs – on your child. Less is more.

  1. Layer for Versatility:

Layering adds depth and versatility to your child's outfits. Consider adding cardigans, vests, scarves, or hats that can be easily removed or adjusted during the shoot. Layers also allow you to create different looks without the need for a complete wardrobe change.

  1. Accessorise Thoughtfully:

Accessories can be a fun way to add personality and style to your child's photos. Hats, bows, headbands, and belts can all be great additions if they suit your child's personality and the overall theme of the shoot. Just be mindful not to overdo it; less is nearly always more.

  1. Bring Backup Outfits:

Accidents can happen, especially with children. It's a good idea to bring backup outfits, just in case. This way, you'll be prepared if there are any spills, stains, or wardrobe malfunctions during the photoshoot.

  1. Bring Drinks & Snacks and Changing Bag:

Make sure you bring a drink for your child and a snack that will not leave a messy face or stain clothing. Don't forget your changing bag if you use one!

Conclusion:

Choosing the right wardrobe for your child's photoshoot is all about striking a balance between style and comfort. Remember that your child's comfort and happiness are paramount, as they'll shine brightest when they feel at ease. By coordinating outfits, considering the theme, and keeping these tips in mind, you'll be well-prepared to capture beautiful, timeless moments with your child during the photoshoot.

Motherhood is a beautiful and transformative journey filled with countless moments of joy and anticipation. From the radiant glow of pregnancy to the tender early days of welcoming your little one, these cherished memories deserve to be treasured forever. That's why I am thrilled to continue my extraordinary offer that will allow you to capture and preserve these precious moments in the most enchanting way possible. Book a newborn photoshoot at my photography studio in Hampshire, and I will include a complimentary mini maternity shoot!

Celebrate the Miracle of Life: Pregnancy is a time of incredible beauty and excitement. It's a phase where a woman's inner radiance shines brightly. I fully understand the essence of this magical journey, having two children of my own. During your mini maternity shoot, I will seize those fleeting moments, documenting the joy and love that fill the air as you await the arrival of your bundle of joy.

Flattering Images for All: No matter your size or shape, I will help with posing to ensure you look amazing in your photos. You can choose from a range of maternity gowns that I have in my studio (see images above). Whether you choose a sheer dress or want more coverage, have your bump exposed or not, you will look fabulous.

Preserving the Early Days: Once your little one arrives, their presence fills your world with indescribable joy. Those first few days are filled with tender moments and the purest emotions. It also passes by in a bit of a crazy blur! I will be there to chronicle these invaluable early days through a relaxing newborn photoshoot. From their tiny fingers and toes to their adorable expressions, I will document every precious detail, allowing you to relive these cherished moments for years to come.

Creating Timeless Memories: I believe that photography is not just about capturing images; it's about creating timeless memories that will transport you back to the emotions and feelings of that special time. I am skilled in the art of storytelling through imagery, and take great pride in crafting photographs that evoke the essence of your unique journey. Each image will become a cherished keepsake, allowing you to cherish and share these beautiful memories with your child as they grow.

How to Secure Your Spot: To take advantage of this remarkable offer, simply enquire via my web form, selecting the option for a "Newborn Photoshoot with free Mini Maternity Shoot". This limited-time promotion includes the complimentary mini maternity shoot, ensuring that you can celebrate both the anticipation of motherhood and the joy of your baby's arrival. Don't delay, as availability is limited, and I wouldn't want you to miss out on this incredible opportunity.

Conclusion: The journey of motherhood is a remarkable chapter in every family's life. It's a time filled with love, excitement, and unforgettable moments. With my exclusive offer of a free mini maternity shoot with every newborn photoshoot booking, I invite you to capture and chronicle these precious memories in a way that will be treasured for a lifetime. Embrace the magic, seize the opportunity, and embark on this incredible journey of motherhood with me. Contact me today to reserve your spot and create everlasting memories that will be cherished for generations to come.

Are you eagerly awaiting the arrival of your precious little one? As a professional photographer specialising in maternity, newborn, and cake smash photography in the beautiful Test Valley, Hampshire, I want to share with you why booking a newborn photoshoot with me is the perfect way to capture timeless memories of your baby's early days.

Expertise in Maternity, Newborn, and Cake Smash Photography:

With a focus on maternity, newborn, and cake smash photography, I have honed my skills to capture the beauty of pregnancy, the delicate features of newborns, and the joyous messiness of cake smash sessions. My experience and specialization in these areas ensure that I understand the unique needs and nuances of photographing pregnant women aged 25-35 and their newborns, allowing me to deliver stunning images that truly reflect this special phase of your life.

Personalised Approach and Attention to Detail:

I believe in creating a personalised experience for each client. When you book a newborn photoshoot with me, I take the time to understand your vision, preferences, and style. This enables me to tailor the session to your specific desires, ensuring that the resulting images perfectly capture the essence of your baby and your growing family. I pay meticulous attention to every detail, from the lighting and props to the poses and expressions, to create photographs that evoke genuine emotions and showcase the unique beauty of your newborn.

Safe and Comfortable Environment:

Your baby's safety and comfort are of paramount importance to me. As a professional photographer, I prioritize creating a safe and cozy environment during the newborn photoshoot. My garden studio in the tranquil Test Valley, Hampshire, is designed to provide warmth and comfort for both you and your baby. I maintain optimal room temperature to keep your little one snug, and I have the necessary professional equipment and knowledge to ensure that your baby is posed and handled safely throughout the session. With my expertise and attention to detail, you can relax and enjoy the experience, knowing that your baby is in capable hands.

Capturing the Magic of Newborn Features:

The first few days of your baby's life are truly magical, and I want to help you preserve those fleeting moments. By booking a newborn photoshoot with me, you'll have the opportunity to capture the tiny fingers, delicate features, and angelic expressions of your newborn. I provide a selection of wraps and props in a variety of colours to enhance the photographs while ensuring that your baby's unique qualities remain the focal point. Together, we will create a collection of images that celebrate the preciousness of your baby's early days.

Preserve Memories for a Lifetime:

The joy and excitement of welcoming a new member into your family are unparalleled. By investing in a newborn photoshoot with me, you are preserving those memories for a lifetime. The images we capture will become cherished heirlooms that you can look back on with nostalgia, sharing the story of your baby's arrival and the love that surrounds them. From professionally framed prints to beautifully crafted bespoke albums, I offer a range of products to showcase your photographs and allow you to relive these precious moments with your child as they grow.

Booking a newborn photoshoot with a specialist maternity, newborn, and cake smash photographer like me is a decision that will bring you joy and allow you to cherish the early days of your baby's life. Contact me today to discuss your session and embark on this incredible photographic journey together.

Helen x

11-12 November 2023

Your Session

You will have received an email with the date and time of your slot. Please make sure you are on time. I have multiple shoots running consecutively and if you miss your slot, you miss your photoshoot! You have up to one hour for your shoot.

The 2 Set-Ups

I will take some classic portraits as well as the magical image. There will be 2 set ups for your shoot - some classic portraits, including some with a glittery Christmas finish, as well as the magical image, created after the shoot in Photoshop. These set ups are shown below.

Girl snuggled under a blanket, reading a book, leaning against a reindeer lying in the snow.
Family portrait of young couple with their baby, sitting at an Andover photography studio against a dark backdrop.

What to Wear

You are welcome to bring a change of outfit for your children or stay in the same outfit for both set ups. Go smart or casual, but avoid bold patterns and large logos to keep your images timeless and to keep the focus on faces rather than clothes.

For the magical image, you can choose Christmas pyjamas, preferably in a light colour, or borrow the white fluffy cardigan and blanket, as shown in the reindeer image above. These will completely cover whatever your child is wearing. I recommend Next or Asda for Christmas PJs, both of which have a click and collect facility in Andover. Alternatively, Zara to great kids clothes.

What to Bring

Your session will be up to one hour, but may be quicker, as children don’t usually want to hang around posing, so I have to work fast! If you are happy to, bring some sweets or whatever works in case we need to bribe your children, but I’m confident that we’ll get some lovely smiles.

Where

My studio is in our garden, so it’s a house you’ll be looking for. The address is Blacksmith’s Cottage, 8 Waterloo Terrace, Foundry Road, Anna Valley, SP11 7LY. We are diagonally opposite Greenfield Farm Shop and you can park on the road, but please don’t block the driveway. Please come through the side gate when you arrive and go straight on up to the studio, a lovely cosy log cabin, where I will be waiting to welcome you.

Receiving your Photos

I will edit your photos and create a private online gallery for you to view them and choose your package. You can then purchase your chosen package online, for immediate digital downloads. Your gallery will be ready for you within 2 weeks of the shoot and I will email you as soon as it is ready.

Questions?

I hope this answers many of your questions. If you would like to discuss your session, please get in touch via my Contact Page.

Helen x

What to expect

A cake smash photoshoot is so much fun! Since little ones tire quickly, I work fast. The shoot will be around one hour long and I pack a lot into that time! Your little angel is guaranteed to be tired afterwards! 

I always start with some classic portraits, so you have some nice, clean images before chaos unfolds. I love to keep my set ups really simple, often using a giant white balloon, little wooden ONE letters, a vintage wooden child's chair, or even the same bowl or little bed that we photographed your baby in when they came for their newborn photoshoot!

We then do a quick outfit change and bring out the cake. If your baby is not interested in touching or tasting the cake, I have a cute wooden spoon that they can play with, so I am always able to capture some great images with the cake. We end with a little bath in a vintage style tin bath, with lots of bubbles.

What should my baby wear?

I have a wide selection of really cute, simple outfits that you are more than welcome to use, or you can bring your own. Take a look here at the outfits I can provide for you: Cake Smash Outfits

What about the cake?

I provide the cake for you and this can either be a naked iced cake or a giant cupcake. I recommend keeping it simple with cream butter icing or a pastel colour of your choice. If you or your child have any allergies, please let me know in advance and I can provide a dairy free or gluten free cake if that's what you need. I have a pink and a clear glass cake stand or a wooden slice cake stand.

You are welcome to take the cake home with you afterwards, if it is still in good condition! I don't like waste and I do donate to the Andover Food Bank each month.

What to bring with you on the day

All you need to bring is your changing bag, a drink and snack for your child, a towel and possibly a change of clothes for yourself, as you might get messy too! I provide everything else - cake, outfits, props, balloons, bubbles...

Can I have some family photos too?

Unfortunately, a family photoshoot requires a lot more work for me on the day (such as changing the lighting and backdrops) and in terms of more editing after the shoot. Therefore I can't include family photos as part of the cake smash shoot. Of course, you are more than welcome to book extra time with me to add on a family shoot, at an additional cost. Get in touch to discuss how this would work.

Questions?

I hope I have answered all your questions, but if you need to talk to me, please get in touch!

Helen x

Where will the session take place?

Newborn photoshoots will take place in my photography studio, a beautiful log cabin in the garden of our family home in Anna Valley, near Andover in Hampshire. The space is designed to be warm and comfortable. The room temperature will be set to around 21C and a small heater is used to heat the area where baby will be lying to 28C, so baby does not get cold when posed.

I want you and your baby to feel relaxed and comfortable so you will be able to feed on demand and change baby as needed. I will provide light refreshments, but you might like to bring lunch or snacks with you so you don’t get hungry. I will play white noise or relaxing music to help soothe baby throughout the session.

Your newborn photo session will take around 3 hours and the reason for this is your newborn will need feeding, cuddles and cleaning throughout the session which is baby led rather than photographer led. The actual taking of photos is only a small part of the experience!

How to prepare

In order to be able to provide you with certain posed images, I prefer baby to be curled up, sleeping for as long as possible during the session. I can of course take beautiful photos of your baby awake, but it is not easy to position baby in specific poses when they not asleep, unless well wrapped. In order to increase the likelihood of baby sleeping during the session, we start by making sure baby has a full tummy, a good winding and a clean nappy.

When you arrive

When you arrive and have settled down comfortably, I will ask you to feed your baby if they need feeding, to make sure they have a full tummy and will be more likely to fall into a deep sleep. I’ll then ask you to change baby's nappy, which will stay on for most if not all of the session. I'll handle baby for most of the session, usually only passing them to you if they need a feed. This helps to keep baby settled, as they cannot smell milk on me! I may ask you to give baby extra little top-up feeds to help settle them during the session, if necessary.

So that I can capture your baby perfectly while they are still so brand new, for most of the session your baby will be in just their nappy or their birthday suit. Newborn clothes never fit correctly so we don’t get to see all those beautiful wrinkles and creases.

I have a wide selection of wraps in a variety of colours that you can choose from, along with little hats and headbands, artificial flowers and more. I have a range of props including little wooden beds, baskets and bowls. I will ask you or your partner to help when your baby's in a prop, to ensure their safety at all times.

One of the downsides of photographing baby undressed is that your baby is guaranteed to poop and/or pee on props, blankets, perhaps even me or you! This is just par for the course, something I’m used to dealing with and something I allow for. I have 2 children of my own after all! All of my blankets and props are washed in an eco non-biological detergent for sensitive skin or are sanitised after each session. I have plenty of cloths, wipes, towels and sanitiser to hand.

Special items

You may have some particularly special items of clothing or toys that you would like to be included in the photos. Please remember to bring these along to the session if you would like to.

Family photographs and what to wear

I always include some photos with parents and siblings during my newborn sessions, at no additional cost. Please wear plain clothing to the session yourself, as patterns and contrasting colours can be distracting in the final image. Other family members or friends being photographed should also wear plain coloured clothing and it is a good idea to try to coordinate, such as by all wearing pastel shades or earthy tones. I'll choose either a light or dark backdrop for family photos, depending on your choice of clothing.

Safety

It might surprise you to know that the newborn photography industry in the UK is completely unregulated. Photographers like me, who take safety seriously, have to take it upon ourselves to be trained and educated on how to ensure the beautiful images we create, are done safely. I am fully trained in newborn photography and I undergo regular safety and first aid training. I am fully insured with Policy Bee.

I work without an assistant, but at times I may ask you to be hands on, to help with positioning if necessary for safety purposes. However, for the most part I would like you to be able to relax and watch the session take place, use the wifi or do whatever you feel most comfortable doing!

How soon will I receive my photos?

Around 3 weeks after your shoot, I will invite you back to my studio for your viewing session, where you will choose which images you’d like to keep forever. I have a choice of packages plus wall art - framed prints, canvases, unique ways of displaying your beautiful photos, including bespoke hand made albums and more. I’ll take payment at the viewing session and your photos will be with you as soon as possible - digital downloads on the day! View pricing info here.

Queries

I hope this answers many of your questions. If you would like me to arrange a phone or Zoom consultation to discuss your session, or if you would like to visit the studio in person, please get in touch.

Helen

Before the shoot

Get kids excited about the shoot

Kids are big part of your family and most likely the reason you want these photos, so involve them in the entire experience. If they want to bring their favourite cuddly toy along to the session, let them. These are details that reflect their personality and mark this time in their life; you want those captured.

Get them excited about the shoot far in advance. Plan a surprise or a special treat like ice cream or mini golf after the shoot, so that they look forward to the entire day. You don’t want your kids to think of the photo shoot as something scary, or worse, a chore.

Make an effort and plan

You are paying good money for these photos so don’t look as though you have just come home from the school run in the rain. You don’t have to look like you are off to the races, but look your best, smart or casual.

Food

Don’t show up to a photo shoot on an empty stomach. I meet many families who come to a photo session with dinner or a picnic scheduled at the end. If this is your plan, great, but please be sure to give everyone a healthy snack before the photo shoot.

Clothing advice

Photos aren’t something we normally have done once a month on a professional level...so make sure you’re adequately prepared for this special event. Buy a new outfit, do some extra styling with your child’s hair or incorporate fun props like hats or scarves.

Timeless, comfortable and attractive clothing choices

For a photo that stands the test of time, opt for clothes that are classic rather than super trendy. Try to avoid large logos, bold patterns and styles that might be outdated in a year.

When picking out your clothes for the session, err on the side of comfort. You want to be confident in your clothing styles, but choose something flattering and timeless that will make you want to keep that family portrait up for years to come.

What do your dream family photos look like? If they are soft and elegant? Choose neutral colours with soft, flowing fabrics.... think creams, very soft pastels, oatmeal, light browns, tans, greys, and slate blues. We can even discuss a highly stylised shoot.

Coordinate rather than match

Coordinate your wardrobe, but not too much. There is a fine line between coordinating and too matchy matchy. Selecting complimentary patterns, or colours (think pastels or varying shades of the same colour) are a great way to go. You do not have to match. In fact, it looks better when you don’t.

Bring a change of clothes if you want more than one look, or in case your child has a potty accident, etc.

Photos of kids with bare feet look awesome, as do girls in cream or pastel coloured floaty dresses and boys in smart shorts, shirt and a waistcoat.

Idea: Pick a single colour tone to each member of the family to wear. This use of a single colour can be as small as adding a red hair band to a girl’s ponytail, or as large as a father wearing a similar colour shirt as his daughter’s hair band. Utilise the same or similar colour throughout the family. The acts to subconsciously strengthen their bond with the photo. Accessories, such as scarves, necklaces, over shirts, hairpieces, shoes, and hats are just a few of the ways to add an accent colour to a family member.

What to bring on the day

Most of all, bring your patience!

Tips for during the session

Letting go of expectations will take a little bit of the pressure off and help everyone to relax and just enjoy the time together as a family. Be realistic, the whole point of the session is to capture your family. You won’t look like the family in the department store adverts because they are not real!

The perfect family photo may not necessarily be the one you envision. Open your mind, relax, have fun with it & the photos will reflect a lovely memory of time spent together. If you are relaxed, your children will be too.

Step back, and allow me as photographer to naturally interact and talk with your children. This will result in natural, gorgeous smiles. Help me to capture the true essence of your child’s personality by talking with and coaxing out those smiles.

Always touching: be sure that you’re always touching someone. Whether it’s a hug or snuggle, or just a tender hand on the shoulder. Make contact with your family. This shows connections and love.

Location

My studio is a beautiful log cabin in our garden. The address is rear of Blacksmith’s Cottage, 8 Waterloo Terrace, Foundry Road, Anna Valley, SP11 7LY. The house is diagonally opposite Greenfield Farm Shop and there is plenty of free on street parking outside our house, where I will be waiting to greet you. Find directions on my contact page.

How long will it take?

Your photoshoot will not take more than an hour and could take as little as 20 minutes. This all depends on whether you have children with you and how they respond to being photographed. I am quietly confident that I will get genuine smiles and capture the personality of your family members, but some families take longer than others! I will do my best not to keep you longer than necessary and when working with very small children, I work fast as they get bored fast!

When will I get my photos?

Around 3 weeks after your photoshoot, I will be in touch with details of how to book your viewing session, where you’ll come back to my studio to view and choose your photos. I have three print & digital packages to choose from, then you can add framed prints, albums and wall art if you wish. There is no obligation to buy any more than the basic package. If you have been given a gift voucher, a specific package or item may have been chosen for you, but you will have the option to add to this if you wish.

Queries?

Any queries about any aspect of your photoshoot, please contact me. If you’d like to book a pre-shoot consultation via phone or Zoom, please let me know.

I look forward to seeing you at your photoshoot! Helen x