A guide to preparing for your newborn photoshoot in London, embracing the beauty of the moment, and preserving memories that will last a lifetime.

Connection over perfection

Your newborn session is not about perfection. It’s about the love that fills those early days—raw and unfiltered. The most important thing is that you feel ready and comfortable, so you can simply be yourselves. It’s these moments of connection that we want to capture, not the perfection of your home or surroundings.

With over 10 years of experience as a newborn photographer in London, I will take care of every important detail so that you can just relax and enjoy the experience. Together, we will create warm and timeless images that will remind you of the beauty of these fleeting days, long after they’ve passed.

Best time for newborn photos

Newborn photography is best done within the first two weeks of your baby’s life, when babies are sleepiest and easiest to pose. However, I regularly photograph older newborns (up to 3 months) if you missed that fresh newborn phase - the most important thing is that you feel ready.

It’s ideal to book your session after your 20-week scan to ensure your preferred date is available. If your baby arrives early or late, I offer flexibility in my schedule to accommodate the change, so you don’t have to worry.

Where to do your newborn photoshoot : home or studio?

At home

Your home is where your baby’s first memories are made. The nursery you have been decorating waiting for your little one’s arrival, the family sofa, and the quiet moments in your bedroom—these spaces create an authentic and meaningful backdrop.

Don’t worry about tidying up - just focus on enjoying the moment. All I need is one good window with natural light. I will spend the first 15 minutes of the session preparing the space, moving things around if needed, so you can relax and enjoy the experience. I often photograph in the bedroom, but also in the nursery, living room, kitchen or other areas of your home where there’s good light.

It is a good idea to have white, cream or light-coloured sheets on the bed, and to prepare a few blankets and throws to add texture and visual interest. I'll bring outfits for the baby, which are optional, so you can choose if you'd like to use them.

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In the studio

If you want clean, minimalist photos with a focus on your baby and looking for a newborn photoshoot in the studio, you are welcome to my natural light garden studio in Twickenham, a peaceful retreat and a home away from home. With gentle music, soft lighting, and a client wardrobe available, it’s designed to make you feel relaxed and at ease.

What to wear

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When it comes to dressing for your newborn session, comfort and simplicity are everything. The goal is to keep the focus on connection — your baby in your arms, your expressions, the in-between moments. Ideally we want the clothing to complement the softness of this season, not distract from it. Here are a few tips to help you choose:

For babies:

Your baby will be photographed mostly in your arms, so their clothing should be comfortable, soft, and simple. I also have a curated collection of neutral baby pieces available in the studio, which we can use during your session.

Knitted rompers, soft vests, or footless sleepsuits in natural tones work beautifully.
Footless options are ideal to be able to capture those tiny toes, especially in close-up details.
Avoid anything stiff, structured, or with large patterns, ruffles, or collars.
If you're bringing your own pieces, choose natural fabrics like cotton or wool.
For some images, we may gently remove outer layers or swaddle your baby in a neutral wrap to show skin-on-skin connection.

The studio will be warm and cosy throughout the shoot to make sure your baby stays warm and content.

For mums:

Soft, flowing dresses work beautifully — they move gently and photograph with a timeless feel.
Natural textures like cotton, linen, and knits add softness and depth to your images.
If you’re breastfeeding, think about easy-access options — button-downs or wrap styles can help.
Linen sets (a shirt with pull-on trousers or shorts) are lovely alternatives to dresses, especially for a more relaxed feel.

For dads:

Simple, comfortable clothing works best.
Plain T-shirts, soft shirts, or lightweight knits pair well with trousers or jeans.
Avoid black if possible — it can feel harsh on camera. Instead, muted tones like oatmeal, soft grey, stone, or even a gentle denim blue work beautifully.
Denim trousers (especially mid- or light-wash) are a great option for dads

Colours & tones:

Neutrals always work well — white, cream, beige, tan and earthy tones create a gentle, cohesive palette.
Colours are absolutely welcome — just steer clear of anything too bright or saturated. Think muted versions: sage instead of bright green, dusty rose instead of hot pink, ochre instead of lemon yellow.
If you’re unsure, feel free to send over your outfit ideas via WhatsApp — I’m always happy to help you style the session.

Prints & patterns:

Small-scale prints can work really well — think subtle florals, delicate stripes, or a soft animal print. Just make sure they’re not too bold or high contrast.
Avoid logos, large graphics, or text — we want your images to feel timeless.

Layering:

Especially helpful in cooler weather, layers add both warmth and visual interest.
Think cardigans, jumpers, or soft shawls — items that can be added or removed during the session depending on the moment.

And most importantly…
Choose something that makes you feel like you. Whether it’s a dress you wore during pregnancy, your favourite knit, or something completely new — if you feel comfortable and confident in it, it will come through in the photos.

Before the session:

Timing: It’s best to keep your little one awake for 1-2 hours before the session to make it easier for them to settle into a peaceful nap for those sleepy newborn photos. I know that babies are unpredictable so if your little one is awake during the session that is absolutely fine too - we will still be able to get some lovely images!
Temperature: Whether at home or in the studio, keeping the space warm helps your baby stay comfortable and relaxed. My studio is always warm- I will make sure there’s an optimal temperature for your baby to feel happy and relaxed.
Feeding: A well-fed baby is a happy baby. Feeding right before the session can help settle your little one.
Siblings & family: If older siblings are joining, it’s helpful to let them know the session will be relaxed and unhurried. Bringing a favourite toy or snack can help keep them engaged.

The art of surrender

Babies are beautifully unpredictable, so there’s no rush and no agenda -only the rhythm of your little one. Trust the process, lean into the moment, and allow the session to unfold naturally. If your baby needs to be soothed, we pause. If they fall asleep, we capture those peaceful moments. With my experience as a London newborn photographer for over 10 years, and as a mum of two, I will guide you with patience and care so that however the moment unfolds, we will create beautiful, timeless images that are artful and authentic.