Hey! I'm Amy, a Newborn & Family Photographer based in Sussex. I have two children on my own and LOTS of nieces and nephews that I love to spoil. I first picked up my camera in 2018 to document my young family and their childhood growing up and I am so glad that I did!
I have poured my heart and soul into learning how to capture the connection and love within a family. Not a day goes by that I am not incredibly grateful that I get to call this my job and that so many families trust me to photograph their loved ones and hang those photographs on their walls.
Deciding what type of newborn photoshoot you would like
When it comes to newborn photoshoots, generally there are two main types; wrapped newborn photography which usually takes place in a photography studio, and lifestyle newborn photography which usually takes place in the family home but can also sometimes take place in a studio that is set up with areas that look like a home.
These two types of newborn photography are both beautiful but in my opinion, are also very different from one another.
Wrapped newborn photography
Newborn photography where the baby is wrapped up in the fetal position is often referred to as "wrapped newborn photography" or "swaddled newborn photography." This technique involves carefully wrapping the baby in soft, stretchy fabrics to mimic the cosy, curled-up position they were in while in the womb. It helps to create a sense of security and comfort for the baby, allowing the photographer to capture adorable and intimate shots while also ensuring the baby's safety and comfort.
lifestyle newborn photography
Lifestyle newborn photography takes on more of a documentary approach and aims to capture authentic and natural moments of a newborn and their family in their own environment, such as their home. The emphasis is on capturing genuine moments of love, connection and joy between the family, rather than posing the baby in specific positions or using props.
Booking before your baby arrives
If you are able to, the best time to book a newborn photoshoot is whilst you are still pregnant. There are a few reasons for this including;
- Ability to book a provisional date around your baby's due date
- Having the best chance of booking the photographer that you want and not risking them being unavailable around your due date.
- Being able to prepare for your photoshoot in good time and get to know your photographer.
- Taking your time choosing what to wear.
Once you have chosen the newborn photographer that you would like to book, the ideal time to get in touch with them is around your 20 week scan. There is no rule around this and you can certainly book after this time, however this gives you the most optimal time in preparing and avoiding any disappointment if your preferred newborn photographer is unavailable.
Most newborn photographers require for you to book a provisional date when booking, however this is usually flexible in case your baby is early or late as they are on their own timeline! Make sure you check this with your photographer when booking.
Photographing the early days
There is something super special about photographing the first few days of a baby's life. Not only capturing how tiny their little fingers and toes are, but also the undeniable love that surrounds a new family.
If you are hoping to document your baby when are still sleepy and are very much 'newborn', you will need to have your photoshoot take place within the first 2 weeks of them being born. You will need to have your newborn photoshoot within this time frame if you are opting for a 'wrapped newborn photoshoot'. During this period, babies are still in that sleepy, curled-up stage, making them more cooperative and easier to pose.
Booking after your baby arrives
If your baby has already arrived, you can absolutely still book a newborn photoshoot and I would highly recommend that you do.
As a Lifestyle Newborn Photographer, I consider babies up to the age of 6 months suitable for a newborn photoshoot. There is no rush to have them photographed so they are still curled up, as for the most part, in a lifestyle photoshoot they are cuddled up with you anyway.
Ultimately, the best time to book a newborn photoshoot is when it feels right for you and your family. Whether it's within the first two weeks or slightly later, the most important thing is to capture those fleeting moments and create timeless memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Newborn photographer in Sussex
As a Sussex newborn photographer, I personally specialise in providing natural and heartfelt photography from the comfort of your own home.
Capturing the true magic, natural love and connection brings me so much joy and it is an incredible honour to spend time with each family and get to know their uniquely wonderful story.
If you are looking for authentic, heartfelt photographs of your new family that are bursting with feeling and emotion, then head over to my contact page and let's chat! I can't wait to meet you and your family 🩷
