Ever wondered what kind of magic is used by a newborn photographer to settle your new baby? If you have ever had a newborn shoot before, you may know what I am talking about. You are used to those sleepless nights, endless feeding and are now slightly worried about how your baby may be during their shoot? Well fear not! I promise you have nothing to worry about.


Most of the time babies are very content in my studio. As are the parent's too. This is a big priority to me. As a mum of three myself, I remember that feeling of passing over your new baby. So its so important that you feel comfortable with me. I work in a way that is relaxed and entirely baby-led. This means that I am talking to you and also reading baby for the signs to ensure that they are happy at all times.


My style of shooting is more of a relaxed, lifestyle approach. Therefore I will never pose baby in an un-natural way, as this is just something I wouldn't feel comfortable with. This comes from experience with my own babies too, and what I would be happy with as a mum myself. I encourage parents to be involved, so baby will be comforted throughout the session. This could be getting close up's of baby being held or even just having hands on baby to keep that connection. Once we get baby to sleep, then we will attempt a more 'posed' shot where I will gently place them onto the beanbag, or into a well-cushioned basket for a prop shot.


But HOW do you get baby to sleep!? I hear you ask. Well there are a few factor's that come into play with this, and often my clients leave with a list of tips and product's that they are eager to try at home too. Anything to help with that sleep deprivation right?!


So, Number 1)

The correct temperature is vital! Newborn's have just come from the lovely warm womb, and are now adjusting to being in the outside world. This may sound obvious, but newborn's are not happy if they feel either too hot or too cold. So depending on the amount of layers baby has on, the room temperature needs to be just right. I will keep checking that baby is happy with the temp throughout the session.


Number 2)

White noise is my best friend! I couldn't do my session's without it. You may have seen a variety of white noise machine's on the market. I always recommend the dreamegg D11 sound machine. It is small, portable, and charge-able, so no emergency battery changes in the middle of the night. It has a handy nightlight on it, which is great for night-feed's. It also has multiple settings for different sounds, volume and timer's. After 3 babies and lots of newborn sessions, its the best one that I have found. Most of my client's leave with one being ordered, as soon as they see it in action.


Number 3)

A fed baby is a happy baby. However they are fed, breast or bottle, a nice full tummy of milk is always going to allow for a smoother session. I do not put any pressure on the time of feed's ect. Just arrive with your baby and we will go from there. This is why I allow 3 hours for a newborn session. Alot of time is spent feeding and changing, not just taking the photo's.


Number 4)

If in doubt, try a swaddle! This can be a life-saver. As soon as they feel all snug, they are able to relax and settle. This again comes down to them adjusting to being earth-side and wanting to feel safe and secure. I use a wrap and will style it to look good in your photo's. I always go for neutral materials that soft on baby's skin. For at home, there are many different style's of swaddle that you can get. Some babies do prefer to be free, so we will skip the wrap if that's the case. But more often than not, swaddling baby is a great technique for a happy baby.


Number 5)

Stay relaxed! If you are able to stay calm, then the baby will too. The studio is a lovely space for us all to enjoy. You can just take a couple of hours to soak up this exciting phase, love on your beautiful baby and enjoy a well deserved hot cuppa. I have refreshments in the studio and aim for you to enjoy your time too. It's an experience, and it often one of the first outing's that you will have with you new addition. So enjoy it!


I cant wait to welcome you all to the Leanne Beau Studio. Where we chat, sit back and create some magic! xx