Maternity, what to expect...

Starting with a Mini Maternity Session between weeks 32 and 36 we will produce a gallery of stunning images of “ the time before time began", partners and siblings are welcome to join you.

Sessions last 30-45 minutes during which time you'll be photographed in my intimate home studio. There's no need to feel daunted (easier said than done), you'll find that the more you relax and enjoy it the easier and the more beautiful your images will be. There's no need to worry about posing, I'll walk you through the different setups and photograph you as you are.

One of the first question from clients about my maternity sessions is always what to wear, especially because most expecting mamas are (unnecessarily) self-conscious about their new bodies. Whilst my sessions are always tailored to your needs and expectations I think that there is nothing more beautiful than a woman's blossoming belly and this is your one time to let your belly show.

You can't go wrong if you bring a few of the items from this check list and together we'll select the best items:

• a basic white or gray tank top
• a lingerie set and slip dress or long flowing dress
• a good combination of tight fitting clothing to show off your bump

I also have a selection of dress and loungewear that can be used to add a little extra glamour to your shoot. Try to keep your colour choices and palette to pastels and neutrals only so that we can keep the look simple, feminine and beautiful.

Newborn Highlights, what to expect...

Highlight sessions usually take place between 7 and 14 days after the birth. At the start of the session I'll undress and then wrap your baby in a swaddling blanket - this keeps your baby feeling safe and comfortable. The session usually lasts about 45 minutes and the focus is entirely on your baby. 

There is no need to bring props or clothes but a dummy is very useful.

Please be sure to feed your little one just before leaving home so that you arrive with a happy, sleepy baby. 

Newborn Collective, what to expect...

These are the ultimate fine art newborn sessions. During our time together I'll  photograph every detail of your baby and capture the beautiful bond that is beginning to develop between your baby and all the members of your family. Siblings are welcome, however it's a good idea to bring them some form of entertainment as sessions are very warm and quite dull for little ones.

Please be sure to feed your baby just before leaving the house to ensure that upon arrival we have a happy, sleepy baby.

When you arrive I'll undress and wrap your baby in a swaddling blanket to keep them comfortable.  Whilst I understand that it's very exciting to buy beautiful clothes for your precious one, but newborn clothes rarely fit well and fail to show the delicateness of every detail that is your new baby. 

For the rest of the family simple, mid-tone clothing is best; cream, white, soft pink or even light grey. Textured items, lace and layers add a great touch.

The studio wardrobe includes a number of dresses that you are more than welcome to borrow. Have a think about your hair and makeup. There's no need to go overboard here, but a little special touch here and there can go a long way in creating stunning portraits

For Papas, I suggest a pair of jeans with a plain white or tan/oatmeal t-shirt or a button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up and untucked

If Papa is prepared to go topless in one shot the result can be incredibly beautiful and is a very powerful image.

For young siblings I will ask boys to go topless and will wrap girls in a simple light fabric. Older siblings could choose from the following:

• plain white t-shirt 
• neutral coloured sundress
• light, floaty, neutral/mid-tone coloured party dress

Please avoid any clothing with logos or designs as we want the focus of your portrait to be on your little baby. 

Studio Mini Sessions, what to expect...

Mini Sessions really are perfect for capturing that fabulous little personality of your child. Sessions are short, 30-45 minutes to ensure that children don't get over tired/stimulated and are usually "painless". That being said, as is the nature of children, I/you cannot guarantee star quality performance from your child on the day. I will do my best and I love engaging with kids on a very silly level, however I will also need a lot of energy from you to get the shots that you are hoping for. 

Whilst I know that it can feel like the pressure is on to get the perfect images it really helps if you relax as much as possible. Children can sense when their parents are getting stressed and simply won't perform. I have a lot of experience with children; I have four of my own as well as working almost exclusively with small children in the studio, so I will pull out every trick in the book to engage with your little one and get the best out of them. If you are having a family session and are in the picture yourself, please try to remember at this time to look at me with a relaxed expression, rather than trying to engage your child. I'll pull the silly faces and act like a clown if necessary as no-one is going to be taking my picture! 

What to wear

What your family wears for your session can make or break your final portraits and with some careful planning you can create a look that is both timeless and beautiful and fits to the style of your family and home. Important is to avoid big, busy designs or logos and stick to just a few key colours.

For studio sessions I typically advise choosing a mid-tone/neutral colour, such as white, cream or grey. Textured clothing such as lace looks wonderful on Mama's as do detailed necklines, pretty sleeves. I have some options for mums and toddler to borrow - just check with me when booking if you've seen something you like, so that I can make sure it's available.

Have a think about your hair and makeup. There's no need to go overboard here, but a little special touch here and there can go a long way in creating stunning portraits.

Authentic Family, what to expect...

As a curator of moments that matter these sessions are my caviar. No two sessions are the same, just as no two families are the same. Full of bold, fearless love and beauty the goal of these sessions is to simply be... Be who you are, together, love how you do, together, be how you are, together.

Sessions take place within 1 hour before sunset and last 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

Styling these sessions can feel challenging, but go with what feels right. Whilst my studio sessions revolve around a simple pallet I love a more unique, individual look for these sessions. Dress your family comfortably, in clothing that at once represents each member whilst staying timeless - try to avoid logos or characters, opting for colour blocks, textures and layers.