Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions that are not answered here please do not hesitate to Contact Jo.
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Why should I choose you?
My photo shoots are a unique and bespoke experience for both babies and parents. I take time to get to know each and every client’s requirements before the shoot and each session is always relaxed and focused on comfort – I only ever work at the pace of your baby.
I have extensive experience in newborn safety and posing and now train other newborn photographers. My work has also won awards with the Guild of Professional Photographers and in 2018 I won Newborn Photographer of the Year. -
Where are you based?
My comfortable studio is located within my home in Chelmsford, Essex. There is plenty of parking available and refreshments are also provided during the photo shoot.
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What is the best age for a session?
The perfect time for me to capture beautiful and natural portraits is between five and 21 days old. During this early period your baby will still be very sleepy and calm, and therefore happy to be posed.
However, I do also photography older babies for a variety of reasons and newborn sessions can take place within the first 6-8 weeks, especially if the baby has arrived a little early.
This is a unique period in your child’s life and there is only a small window of opportunity to shoot these images. -
When should I book a session?
I would recommend you book as early as possible for me to be able to guarantee a slot around your due date. The best time to book your session is ideally around your 20 week scan. However, I also take later bookings so if you’ve decided that you want to have a newborn photo shoot later than this, or even if your baby has already arrived, please do get in touch.
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How long can a newborn session take?
As all babies are different, a full newborn shoot can take up to 3 hours. Smaller sessions can last 1 – 2 hours. I only book one session a day to ensure that your session is a relaxed and calm experience. I am able to move at the pace of your newborn so if your baby needs time out to be fed or changed, we can take a break from the shoot at any time.
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Do you offer natural newborn sessions?
If you love newborn photography but would prefer a more natural photo shoot with no props or accessories this style of session would be ideal. If you would like a natural session rather than a posed session just let me know when you book.
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Can I bring older siblings?
Yes, you are more than welcome to bring older brothers and sisters along to the shoot. I always take sibling and family shots first so younger children are able to go home after their photos are taken.
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What do I need to bring?
Please remember to bring lots of bottles if you are bottle feeding as babies tend to drink more than usual during a shoot, along with plenty of nappies just in case. Also, feel free to bring any personal items which you would like included in the photographs and don’t forget to bring food for yourself – remember, this is the perfect time for you to completely relax and enjoy the experience.
I will send out further information regarding what is suitable to wear and what to bring to the session once your booking has been confirmed. -
How can I order printed images?
Around two weeks after your shoot I will invite you back to the studio for a viewing session where you will be able to select your favourite portraits, order and pay for your printed images.
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When will my products be available?
Wall art and albums are ready around two to three weeks after your viewing session. Your portraits will be ready to hang, enjoy and share with friends and family.
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What equipment do you use?
I use a Canon EOS R5 – an amazing camera that enables me to capture all the beautiful details of your newborn.
I use a studio flash in my sessions so I can control the lighting whatever the weather. Babies are not fazed by the flash at all, regardless of whether they are asleep or awake. -
When do I pay for my session?
There are 3 times at which payments are made.
A session fee of £99 is paid to book your photoshoot.
On the day of your photoshoot, payment for your digital images is due.
At your viewing session payment for wall art, prints and albums is made.