Frequently Asked Questions
Worried about whether your toddler will cope with a new addition, let alone a newborn session, or how your body will feel after giving birth and how you’ll face being in front of a camera? You’ll find answers to these and other frequently asked questions below.
What if my baby cries or won't settle?
Completely expected, and always fine. There's plenty of time built into every session for feeds, cuddles, and settling whenever your baby needs it. Nothing is ever forced, and we always follow your baby's lead, letting the session find its own rhythm around them.
What if my toddler won't cooperate?
Honestly, that's not unusual, especially with a brand new sibling in the mix. I keep sibling moments relaxed and pressure-free, letting children come to things in their own time. Even a brief, fleeting moment of connection is often enough, and those are sometimes the most real ones. No forced poses, no expectations.
What if I don't feel like myself after birth or a C-section?
You don't need to feel ready or look a certain way. These images tell your story as much as your baby's, and I'm always mindful of photographing you in a way that feels true and kind. There's no pressure to perform, you just need to show up. Being is always enough.
Can siblings be included?
Absolutely, older siblings are always welcome. I include sibling moments in a relaxed, age-appropriate way, creating space for natural interaction rather than anything stiff or posed. I have a few gentle ways of encouraging even the most reluctant participants, and we cover this in detail during your pre-session consultation.
What will my newborn wear?
Very little, most of the time, and that's intentional. Most newborn images are of baby simply swaddled or wrapped, which keeps things timeless and puts the focus on their features rather than clothing. I have a collection of specially handmade wraps, blankets, and delicate outfits available to use, so you don't need to bring anything for your baby.
What should parents wear?
Neutral or muted tones tend to photograph beautifully and keep the focus where it belongs - on how it felt, rather than clothing. You'll receive a simple style guide before your session with some easy guidance, and we can always talk it through during your planning consultation.
What should we bring to the session?
Very little. Just your baby, extra nappies, milk if you're bottle-feeding, and anything that helps you feel comfortable. Everything for your baby - wraps, blankets, outfits - is provided. Travel light.
Do you do posed or natural newborn photography?
Neither exclusively, and the two aren't as separate as they might seem. I work with simple, safe positions that allow your baby to settle naturally, rather than elaborate or prop-heavy poses. The focus is always on what's real - the way your baby tends to lie, those womb-like positions they still love, and the moments between you. Everything is kept minimal, timeless, and led by your baby on the day.
What's the difference between studio and at-home newborn sessions?
The studio is a small, warm, controlled space - ideal for those classic, simple newborn images with a clean, neutral feel. At-home sessions have a more documentary quality, capturing life with your new baby where it's actually happening - your home, your light, your everyday. Both approaches go with the flow and follow your baby's lead. The right choice usually comes down to what feels most comfortable for you, and we can talk it through before you book.
Where are you based and do you travel?
My studio is in Grampound, between Truro and St Austell in Cornwall. I also offer at-home newborn sessions and travel across Cornwall to come to you. A small travel charge applies for locations further afield — we can discuss this when you get in touch.
What if my baby is already a few weeks old?
The ideal window for newborn photography is between six and ten days old, when babies are naturally sleepier and still curled from the womb. That said, I photograph newborns up to six weeks old - they'll have changed and may not sleep as deeply, but it's still early, still precious, and the approach is exactly the same. If your baby is older than six weeks, get in touch anyway - I'm always happy to talk through what's possible.
How long does a newborn session last?
Most sessions last around two hours, but there's no timetable. Some move quickly, others take a little longer. We go with the flow, and there's always enough time for everything that matters.
When will we see our images?
Your images are carefully edited and presented at your ordering appointment, usually around two to three weeks after your session. This is where you'll choose what you'd like to take home - prints, wall art, albums, or a combination - and I'll guide you through everything.
When should we book?
During pregnancy, ideally in your second or third trimester. This gives me time to reserve space around your due date and offer flexibility once your baby arrives. The session itself is pencilled in for around ten days after your due date and adjusted once your baby is here.
How much does newborn photography cost in Cornwall?
The session fee is from £65, which secures your date and includes your pre-session consultation, preparation guides, access to props and outfits, your photography session, and a private viewing and ordering appointment. Images and artwork are chosen separately afterwards - most families invest between £600 and £900 on a combination of prints, wall art, and digital images. Full pricing details are sent once you get in touch, and there's never any pressure to decide anything until after you've seen your images.
