Your Frequently Asked Questions

When you book your newborn, maternity, cake smash or other family photo shoot with me at the Chapter Two Photography Studio, you probably have a few questions – especially if this is your first time. I’m happy to help and advise as much as you need, so please do contact me. No question is a daft question, I promise!

In the meantime, these are some of the frequently asked questions from my baby photography clients. I hope they help, but just to reiterate, feel free to contact me with ANY queries at all.

How Long Will a Newborn Photography Session Take?

There’s a ‘how long is a piece of string’ element to this so to cover all eventualities, we allow around two to three hours for newborn photo shoots. This means there’s no need to worry about taking a break to feed or change your baby, or if baby needs settling at any point. And that’s why the Chapter Two Studio is a calming, happy space, designed for ultimate comfort. Chapter Two newborn photography sessions are led entirely by the star of the show, your baby. Patience and timing are everything, so we don’t rush, ever. It’s an experience to enjoy and to remember. 

Cake Smash sessions and those lovely studio sitting sessions for older babies, or families, usually take around an hour, but again, with little ones, there’s always the element of expecting the unexpected, so we aim to be flexible and plan sessions and sittings around your little one’s routine. 

What’s the Best Age and Stage for Newborn Photography? 

The optimum time for newborn baby photography is somewhere around seven to twenty days – so one to three weeks old - for those precious, curled-up shots. However, anywhere up to around ten weeks still results in lovely newborn photos, recording a magical time. Imagine capturing the first smile around six weeks? And there’s no rule to stop you choosing multiple sessions…

New babies don’t always arrive when they’re expected and can often take us by surprise. Do contact us as soon as possible to book your studio session, as slots have to be limited. Initially, we’ll pencil in your due date but won’t set a firm date until baby’s safely arrived. If baby’s already here, act quickly and contact us as soon as you can and I’ll do my very best to accommodate you.

What Should We Expect at Our Newborn Baby Photography Session?

When you arrive at the Chapter Two Photography Studio, you’ll be greeted and welcomed and made to feel relaxed and comfortable. Our Studio has been designed and planned with that in mind. We’ll have a fresh coffee and chat about how the session will evolve, and how your baby may respond – after all, every baby is different; an individual from the very beginning. Once we get to work, we’ll be guided entirely by your baby – including stopping whenever needed to settle, change, or feed. 

How Should We Prepare for Our Newborn Photoshoot?

To prepare for the session, all you really need to do is dress your baby in a white vest under loose-fitting clothes. It's also a good idea to bring a feed or two if you’re not breastfeeding and you can bring extra nappies and wipes – though we have everything you need. Chapter Two baby photography is very natural, so preparation is minimal. For all other shoots, we’ll make sure you have all the information you need well in advance of your session. 

Can I Bring my Newborn Baby’s Sibling to Our Photo Shoot? 

ABSOLUTELY! We love to welcome older children and toddlers to your newborn session. They are very much part of your new baby and are more than welcome to join in. The Chapter Two Photography studio is a safe space, where your children are welcome to explore toys and games, sit and chill or eat all the snacks!  I get it, I’m a mum, I’ve been there…

What Should I Wear For Our Newborn Photoshoot?

Again, comfort is key – and bring a change of clothes, just in case. I’d love it if you, or older siblings want to be part of the process. That really adds to the warmth and feel of the photographs and fits perfectly with the Chapter Two natural style. Aim for low-key, pale and neutral colours which will complement the photography style. Avoid busy or vibrant patterns. We’ll want you to love and treasure your photos, so make sure you’re dressed in a way you’re happy with. 

Of course, if you’d prefer to stay on the side-lines, that’s ok too, I understand. We can just include hands and arms.

Will My Baby Be Safe and Comfortable During our Newborn Photoshoot?

Your baby’s comfort and safety is ALWAYS paramount, and everything at the Chapter Two Photography Studio is created to facilitate that. Safety should always be the top priority during newborn photography sessions. Whichever baby photographer you choose, make sure they have experience working with newborns and always follow safe practices. They should be gentle, and patient, and prioritise the baby's well-being throughout the session. As an experienced baby photographer – AND a mum – you can rest assured I do just that. Because of the natural style of Chapter Two baby photographs, there are no potentially harmful props and no uncomfortable posing. Here, it’s ALL about baby – just as it should be.

Do You Only Provide Studio Photoshoots?

Studio sessions are perfect for maternity, newborn, older baby and cake smash sessions. Plus, the studio environment minimises circumstances beyond our control. However, older children particularly may rather have the freedom to run wild and play – which produces stunning, happy photographs - then an outdoor location shoot is perfect too. I have a number of fabulous locations where I love to meet families. We enjoy a walk and play games whilst I capture the magic of their personalities and connections as a family. And, because they ARE family, dogs are welcome too.

When Will I Get My Photographs?

We’ll wrap up the shoot with a chat about lead times and how your photos are sent. We aim to send digital images within a week, but occasionally it can take up to three weeks. We will also offer various options, including beautifully framed prints.

I Still Have Questions, Can You Help? 

Of course. I’m happy to help and answer any questions, allay any doubts, or discuss your ideas and preferences. Contact me today.