Newborn photography is a magical way to capture the fleeting early moments of your baby’s life. However, these sessions can be daunting for new parents. At Level 11 Photography, based in the scenic town of Ramsgate, Kent, we specialise in making these sessions as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here are our top 10 tips to ensure a stress-free newborn photography session, designed with insights from our extensive experience and a deep understanding of what works best for both babies and parents.
1. Schedule Wisely
Timing is everything in newborn photography. The ideal window for capturing those sleepy, curly poses is between 4 to 21 days after birth. This is when babies are most cooperative, often sleeping deeply and curling up naturally. We recommend booking your session right after your 20-week scan to reserve a “floating date” around two weeks after your due date. This allows us to adjust the session date once your baby arrives, ensuring we can fit you in during this optimal period.
2. Feed Before the Session
A well-fed baby is a happy, sleepy baby. Try to feed your baby just before the session starts. This will help them feel comfortable and more likely to fall into a deep sleep, which is perfect for those serene, peaceful poses. If your baby needs a top-up during the session, don’t worry—there’s plenty of time built in for feeding and comforting.
3. Keep the Studio Warm
Babies love warmth, and a warm environment will help them stay calm and sleepy. Our studio in Ramsgate is always kept at a comfortable temperature, and we use additional heaters and soft blankets to ensure your baby feels cosy throughout the session. You might find it warm too, so dressing in layers can help you stay comfortable.
4. Bring Comfort Items
Familiar items such as a favourite blanket, toy, or even a piece of clothing that smells like home can provide additional comfort for your baby. These items can also be used in the photos to add a personal touch. While we have a wide range of props and outfits at our studio, personal items can make the session even more special.
5. Stay Relaxed and Patient
Newborn photography sessions can last up to three hours to accommodate feeding, changing, and settling the baby. It’s important to stay relaxed and patient. Babies can sense stress, so the calmer you are, the more likely your baby will remain calm too. We encourage parents to sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience—perhaps with a cup of tea from our studio’s well-stocked refreshment area.
6. Dress Comfortably and Simply
For parents and siblings who will be in the photos, simple, comfortable clothing works best. Neutral colours and soft fabrics without busy patterns or logos are ideal, as they keep the focus on the baby. It’s also a good idea to bring a change of clothes in case of any accidents during the session.
7. Safety First
Your baby’s safety is our top priority. Our lead photographer, Emma, has undergone extensive training under the UK’s foremost newborn photography coach, Maddy Rogers. We follow strict safety protocols to ensure your baby is always secure and comfortable. This includes never leaving your baby unattended and using safe posing techniques. Always choose a photographer with proper training and experience in newborn photography.
8. Plan for Family Involvement
Including family members in the session can create beautiful, memorable images. We suggest bringing siblings in towards the end of the session to avoid them becoming restless and potentially disturbing the baby. Coordinate with us in advance to plan for any family shots, and we’ll guide you on what to wear and how to pose to get the best results.
9. Stay Flexible
Babies are unpredictable, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. Be flexible with your expectations and trust the process. If your baby is fussy or needs extra time to settle, we’ll adapt the session accordingly. Our goal is to capture beautiful images, no matter how long it takes.
10. Enjoy the Experience
Above all, enjoy the experience. This is a special time for you and your family. Our studio, located in the heart of Ramsgate, is designed to be a relaxing and enjoyable space. We want you to leave with not just stunning photographs but also happy memories of the session itself.
Why Choose Level 11 Photography?
Level 11 Photography is situated in the picturesque area of Ramsgate, making it accessible for families from across Thanet, including Margate, Canterbury, and Broadstairs. Our studio is equipped with the largest range of baby clothes, props, and wraps in Kent, ensuring a unique and personalised session for every family.
Our approach is tailored to each family’s needs, and we pride ourselves on our flexibility and dedication to capturing the perfect moments. Whether it’s the peaceful early days of a newborn or the vibrant milestones as your baby grows, we are here to create timeless images that you will cherish forever.
If you’re ready to book your newborn photography session, or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Let Level 11 Photography help you capture the magic of your newborn’s early days with professionalism, care, and creativity.
For more information and to book your session, visit our newborn photography page or call us at 07794929522. We look forward to welcoming you and your little one to our studio soon