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As a newborn photographer based in Sidcup, Kent, I often receive questions from parents about how to prepare for their baby’s first photo session. This guide covers everything you need to know, from what to bring and wear, to ensuring your baby is calm and comfortable. These first few weeks are precious, and newborn photography captures those fleeting moments forever. Let’s make sure your newborn photoshoot at my Sidcup studio is a smooth and memorable experience! When Is the Best Time for Newborn Photography?The ideal time for newborn photography is within the first two weeks of life. At this age, babies are still very sleepy and curl up naturally, making it easier to capture those beautiful, peaceful poses. If you’re based in Sidcup, or nearby areas like Bexley or Bromley, I recommend booking your session while you’re still pregnant, ideally during your second or third trimester.  What to Bring to Your Newborn PhotoshootTo ensure a smooth and enjoyable newborn photography session, I recommend bringing the following essentials to my Sidcup studio: - Nappies & Wipes: For any quick changes during the session. - Favourite Blanket: A familiar item can help soothe your baby. - Feeding Supplies: Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, it's helpful to have feeding items ready for breaks. - Dummy (Pacifier): If your baby uses one, this can be great for settling them between shots. Even if you baby doesn't use one at home, it can be really helpful during your session if you are happy for one to be used short term. If you have any personal items, such as a family heirloom or special toy, feel free to bring those along too. Personal touches can make your photos even more meaningful.  How to Dress Your Newborn and FamilyFor your newborn, simple is best. Soft, neutral colours like cream, white, grey, or pastel shades work beautifully. Avoid bright patterns or logos, as they can distract from the focus on your baby. For parents and siblings, I recommend coordinating outfits in soft, neutral tones such as whites, greys, or earthy colours. These shades create a timeless feel and help keep the focus on your newborn. The goal is to ensure the photos look harmonious without outfits overpowering the shots.  Ensuring Your Newborn Is ComfortableYour baby’s comfort is my top priority during the session. Before coming to the studio, it’s a good idea to feed your baby to ensure they’re full and relaxed. A well-fed baby is more likely to be sleepy, which is ideal for capturing those peaceful, posed shots. Here’s how I’ll ensure your newborn is comfortable in the studio: - Warm Studio Environment: Babies love warmth, so I keep the studio comfortably heated to make sure your baby stays cosy throughout the session. - Dress Your Baby Lightly: It’s best to dress your baby in something easy to remove without disturbing them, as I’ll be swaddling them or photographing them without clothes. I always allow plenty of time for breaks, whether for feeding, changing, or soothing your baby. There’s no rush—the session is designed to be calm and flexible, so I can capture beautiful, natural moments.  Booking Your Newborn Photographer in SidcupIf you're in or around Sidcup, Kent, booking your newborn session early ensures you’ll have a spot during those precious first two weeks of life. I offer different packages that will suit your needs and budget. My studio in Sidcup is fully equipped with a variety of props, backdrops, and everything we’ll need for a successful session. It’s a calm, welcoming space where you can relax while I take care of capturing your baby’s first moments.  Final Thoughts: Capturing Beautiful MemoriesNewborn photography is about more than just taking pictures—it’s about preserving the magic of your baby’s first days. By preparing ahead of time and following these tips, you can ensure a relaxed and enjoyable experience that results in photos you’ll treasure for years to come. If you’re ready to book your newborn photography session at my Sidcup studio, or if you have any questions, feel free to get in touch. I look forward to helping you capture these special moments. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)1. How long does a newborn photography session last?
Newborn photography sessions typically last between 2-4 hours. This allows plenty of time for feeding, changing, and getting your baby settled. 2. Can siblings be included in the newborn photoshoot? Yes! I love including siblings in newborn sessions. I’ll guide you on the best ways to incorporate them into the photos for beautiful family shots. 3. What if my baby is fussy during the photoshoot? Newborns can be unpredictable, and that’s perfectly normal. I plan for plenty of time for feeding, comforting, and breaks. Patience is key, and we’ll capture great images even if your baby needs extra soothing. 4. How far in advance should I book my newborn session? I recommend booking during your pregnancy, ideally by your second or third trimester, to ensure availability within the first two weeks after birth. --- By following these preparation tips, you can feel confident that your newborn photoshoot in my Sidcup studio will be a relaxed and memorable experience that results in beautiful, lasting memories.  Last year I completed my Craftsman panel with the Guild of Photographers. I was completely overwhelmed and delighted to be upgraded to Mast Craftsman, a title which only 8 photographer's in the UK holds. Below I have detailed my statement that was read to the panel of judges and the images I created for the panel. Majority of the images were created during my regular newborn client sessions, keeping the work very much in keeping with what I offer my wonderful families visiting my Sidcup based Studio.   Gypsophila - Be present in this moment, everlasting love, innocence, purity. I have been self employed within this industry since I graduated from my degree in photography over 12 years ago. The first newborn that I photographed was my nephew, 10 years ago this year and it was then a spark of joy grew and I knew what I wanted to do with my photography business. The images I took that day for my sister could not be further from the ones I show you today. During the last decade I have trained, studied, practiced, and then trained some more. I have been a member of the Guild for 7 years, entering the Image of the Month competition since I joined and I enjoy the challenge and push IOM provides me. Jo Bradley has been my mentor for a number of years now, helping me gain my Qualified status in April 2021, giving me numerous feedback sessions, and most recently she has mentored me with this panel I am showing today. The improvement in my work over this time is clear to see when looking at my first entries into the image of the month. With every session - images from these shoots here today - my goal is always to make images that parents treasure, and so regardless of the other elements I bring in, the baby is always the most important. In every image lighting is carefully considered, props and foliage used to add to a story, to work with colours and skin tones. All these elements that I have learned to work with, and have incorporated into my business, to the work that I am known for.  Salvia - Good health, wisdom, inner peace. My slightly barmy husband had been set on an allotment for quite a while, and a year before the first lockdown I had jokingly signed him up and paid the first year rent on what was essentially a field. Little did I know that this field would become a sanctuary from the craziness of the world around us and a provider for my business. I became fascinated by the other allotment holders stories, reasons for growing - everyone’s desire for a simpleness, and escape where they can grow in whatever way worked for them.  Ranunculus: I hold you close to my heart. - Sakura: Peace, harmony. - Allium: Protection, long life. Slowly, seeds germinated, plants emerged, just like the world from lockdowns and isolation. I found myself bringing the allotment into the studio whenever I could. Foliage and florals have always been a feature of my work, the delicate buds of flowers mirroring the arrival of new life from seed, and the satisfaction knowing that I was bringing something different to every session, seasonal, an anchor in time and creating something beautiful for the parents to display on their walls and in albums. I recalled reading about the Victorians, and how they would send messages through flowers, to friends and love interests, and then how old masters used symbols in paintings and the fizz of an idea combining my work life and the allotment started. Researching the meanings of flowers and foliage opened a whole new opportunity to create not only visually pleasing images, but images with a meaning, a message. Every parent, from the very start of their journey into parenthood has hopes, dreams and wishes for their baby and family and so each image today features a plant or plants with a message. From parent to baby - wishes of happiness and health - all the good things for their life, from myself to each of my clients messages of encouragement, to be present and hope for their new family and their future. Messages to my own babies, messages of pure love, gratitude and strength. The age old saying states a picture is worth a thousand words. I don’t have a thousand words, but I do have heartfelt words and wishes for each and every baby that I photograph. Click the button below to find out more about how we can work together to create your perfect session!
I had a fascinating chat with a client in the studio recently, gender swaying. It's as intriguing as it is personal- I have heard about it, but never looked into the details. Let's be honest, pregnancy planning is a whirlwind of excitement. From picking out the most adorable tiny outfits to debating nursery themes, the possibilities are endless. And somewhere amongst the daydreams, you might find yourself picturing tea parties with a little one or kicking a football about with another. It's completely normal! But here's the thing (and we get it, because we've been there too) – while a healthy baby is undeniably the ultimate wish, sometimes a little part of you might have a secret gender preference. There's no shame in that! It's just part of the emotional rollercoaster that comes with starting a family. Now, the internet is brimming with advice on swaying the odds – from timing tricks to dietary tweaks. I've been reading them all. But before we delve down that rabbit hole, let's acknowledge the elephant in the room: gender disappointment. Yes, it's real, and it's okay to feel it. Don't beat yourself up if the scan doesn't quite match your daydreams. Give yourself space to process those emotions, because parenthood is full of surprises (both joyful and tearful). As both parents and photographers, we know that above all, the fervent wish for any expectant couple is a healthy baby.  Now, about gender swaying. For some couples, it's a way to feel more in command amidst the uncertainty of conception. Whether it's following specific dietary guidelines rumoured to increase the likelihood of conceiving a boy or a girl, or meticulously timing intercourse, these methods can offer a sense of agency in an otherwise unpredictable journey. Let's talk diet. According to some theories, consuming foods rich in potassium and sodium, like bananas and potatoes, may boost the odds of conceiving a boy. Some say a high calorie diet helps your chances of having a boy - The theory is that during famine and war—when times are difficult and food may be scarce, women are more likely to conceive girls. But when food is plenty, women tend to conceive more boys.  Conversely, a diet high in magnesium and calcium, found in leafy greens and dairy products, is believed to lean towards conceiving a girl. A diet low in sodium is also rumoured to help to conceive a girl. While these dietary tweaks might sound promising, it's essential to approach them with a pinch of salt (pun intended). The science behind these claims is murky at best, and there's no guarantee of success.  As for timing, some methods suggest pinpointing ovulation to sway the gender in your favour. For those hoping for a girl, intercourse a few days before ovulation is purported to be more favourable, as female sperm reportedly have greater endurance. Conversely, aiming for intercourse closer to ovulation may boost the chances of conceiving a boy, as male sperm are said to be faster swimmers but have a shorter lifespan.
However, it's vital to temper expectations with realism. While these methods might yield success stories for some, there's no magic formula for guaranteeing the gender of your baby. Mother Nature likes to keep us guessing, and sometimes, the best-laid plans go awry. Ultimately, whether you're dreaming of bows or bowties, the most important thing is a happy, healthy baby. And when that precious little bundle finally arrives, we'll be here to capture the moments that you'll cherish forever. If you're in Kent or South East London and seeking newborn photography that celebrates the beauty of new life, we'd love to hear from you. Reach out to schedule your session, and let's create memories that will last a lifetime. Have you ever wondered where you should have your newborn photos taken? You will be in a newborn bubble and your home may seem like the easiest and most comfortable place to be, understandably. But, capturing those little details and moments whilst they are that tiny is important. So, if you’ve ever wondered whether you should have a newborn photography studio session or an in-home session, then I am going to tell you now! 5 Benefits of a Newborn Photography Studio Session
Props and a Bigger Set UpIn my photography studio in Kent, I don’t do composites, meaning all of my setups are real-life and real-time – this makes the shoot much more natural. Setting up in your house is not practical as I have all of the props and set up ready in my studio for your newborn session. This saves all of the stress and hassle for both of us knowing it is all ready in a safe environment for those gorgeous, high-quality photos. The Right Temperature Your newborn is precious and you want them to feel comfortable in their surroundings, and as their parent so do you. In my newborn photography studio the temperature is about 26 degrees and let’s be real, no one wants that sort of heating bill – save the big bill for me! An environment with the right temperature for a newborn is essential so your little one is sleepy and comfortable. A cold environment is going to disrupt the flow and ease of the session and we don’t want that.  Use of Real Flowers I love to use real flowers during my newborn sessions – who doesn’t love the elegance natural flowers have to offer? I get these flowers either from my allotment or garden and sometimes from the florist depending on the season. So again, having an in-home newborn session is not ideal for taking to houses! It is not practical at all.  Perfect Lighting For those high-quality images that show off your newborn in all of its beauty – the tiny features and the lovely colours that are part of the setup – you want a newborn photography studio to have the ideal lighting and space! An in-home session does not usually allow for perfect lighting and therefore means the quality of the images will not be as good. For beautiful pieces of art to be hung around your home you need high-quality photos.  Safe Environment Of course, you want to ensure your newborn is safe! Your home may seem like the only option here but you do not need to worry… My newborn photography studio is exceptionally safe, from the props, the lighting, the temperature and the environment, in general, to ensure your newborn won’t get hurt or feel uncomfortable. I am a mum of 2 myself, so I know how protective you are!  Easier and QuickerEven though a newborn photographer can take great photos in your home, a home photoshoot may necessitate some effort on your part. This includes locating suitable areas in your home for the shoot as well as cleaning and rearranging belongings to allow the photographer adequate space. When you schedule a newborn shoot, you have almost no responsibilities. Simply bring your child in and the rest will be handled by me! As well, my equipment is already set up and ready to go. If you host the photoshoot at your home, your photographer will have to set up their equipment, which will increase the length of your shoot. The quicker, the better especially with a needy newborn!  Are you ready to book your newborn session?If you have ever pondered on a newborn photography studio session or an in-home session, then now you know what I, as a newborn photographer in Kent believes is best for you!
As a mum myself I have been there and done that and I totally understand how you feel at such an intimate and magical time in your life – all I want is the best for you and your baby. So if you are ready to enquire about your shoot, let’s chat. Being pregnant is one of the most beautiful times in your life – the time you dreamt of for so long and the start of your family life. But with the highs, also come lows, right? Your body is growing and changing in all sorts of ways, to ensure your baby grows to be healthy and strong, but those changes can be hard to process and deal with! I get it, I have been pregnant with two of my kids and body positivity during pregnancy can come to an all-time low. But, we need to change our mindset around this and remember what our body is doing and we were made for this. We need to celebrate it. An excellent way to celebrate your body and new family member is by capturing it on camera for you to look back on such a wonderful milestone in years to come! So, as a maternity photographer in Kent, I am going to talk about maternity body positivity and tips for your maternity session.
5 Tips for Your Maternity Session
Choose a Comfortable Outfit A great tip for your maternity session is to choose an outfit that you like and will feel at ease wearing. This is a great place to start so that you feel comfortable during your maternity shoot. The more comfortable you feel in what you’re wearing and the more confident the outfit makes you feel, the more self-love that will shine through – you’ll feel amazing! I do have dresses, outfits and material to use throughout your sessions too, so please feel free to use any of these.
Pamper Yourself I strongly advise you to pamper yourself before the session because you deserve it. Do something that will make you feel good about yourself, whether that is having your hair and makeup done, getting your nails done, going for a massage, or doing some meditation. Remember, this session is all about you and celebrating your gorgeous bump and baby that is growing! The more at ease, you feel during your shoot after a good pamper, the better you will feel showing up in front of the camera. Safe Environment A tip for your maternity session is to ensure the photographer you choose has safety precautions in place and is providing a comfortable space for you. In my studio, I ensure that you walk in feeling like you’re at home, with the right lighting and ideal temperature. I will welcome you from the start and it will feel like we are friends! You are safe in my presence, and I will ensure you feel confident in knowing how great you really look. As a mum myself, I love supporting other mums as I was once in your shoes. Focus on Your BumpIf you feel awkward or anxious being in front of the camera then a tip for your maternity session is to focus on your baby bump, because let’s be real, they’re the star of the show! As well as me guiding you, being your biggest cheerleader and friend, I will ensure you feel at ease in my photography studio in Kent, for the best results. All you have to do is concentrate on your love and excitement for this baby, and your nerves will melt away – you will be in a bubble of joy and appreciation and it will show in the images.  Work That You LoveYou need to be sure that you choose a maternity photographer whose work you absolutely love! Checking out their style and set-up is a good start. For example, in my studio, I use real flowers. I get these flowers either from my allotment or garden and sometimes from the florist depending on the season – this ensures to add a lovely touch to your images. As well as the style of their work, you must ensure you connect with the photographer – connecting with someone who has been on a similar journey to you, shares the same values and someone you can truly get along with is key to a smooth running shoot. I uplift my clients and help them feel confident because let me tell you now, every unique pregnant body is beautiful – you’re literally growing a human and giving them life – what is more incredible than that?  Ready to book your Maternity Session Now I have spoken about maternity body positivity and tips for your maternity session, I hope you are feeling ready to capture the memories you and your baby deserve to look back on in many years to come!
Celebrate yourself and what your body is creating, and be proud of that! If you’re ready to enquire about your shoot then let’s chat.  The wonderful Stevie at Serenity by Stevie offers womb and fertility massage therapy and says: Whatever chapter of life you’re navigating I want to help and support you. Womb and fertility massage therapy can help you; Prepare your body physically and emotionally for IVF treatment Offer menopause relief Improve IBS and digestive issues Support C- section scar healing recovery Support you physically, emotionally and spiritually after baby loss Assist you at any stage of your fertility journey Relieve heavy and painful periods Offer relief for endometriosis and fibroids Assist with improving egg health Break down scar tissue that can cause blockages in the fallopian tubes Clear internal congestion caused by inflammation and cysts If you’re looking for an alternative more holistic approach then please contact me via email or Instagram; [email protected] @_serenitybystevie_ I can’t wait to meet you and start your healing journey. Love Stevie  Parenthood is such a wonderful time of our lives, isn’t it? But it can be a hard transition and it definitely isn’t always rainbows and sunshine! As a mother myself, I completely get it. With all of the beautiful highs and the crazy lows, come milestones. Our babies change, develop and change so rapidly and before we know it they’re doing their own thing and aren’t up for lots of snuggles like they used to. A brilliant way to remember such a special time in your family life is to capture those details on camera for you always to look back on! So, as a Kent photographer, who also covers London, Essex and Surrey borders, I am going to tell you the baby milestones to capture in my photography studio in Kent. Milestones We Capture in My Photography Studio in Kent
Maternity Session
The moment you always dreamt of…being pregnant! Pregnancy is such a wild time in our life – our body changes to support our baby who is growing and living inside of us, and our emotions are everywhere! But, it is such a magical experience and feeling that we just can’t explain. I have added this as a milestone because this is the first step to motherhood and celebrating our baby, as well as how our body has changed! Although it is hard to feel beautiful at times when we are pregnant we have to remember that we are so powerful and are the home keeping our little one safe and healthy. In my photography studio in Kent, women come in feeling empowered, safe and welcomed knowing they are about to capture incredible memories that they will appreciate looking back on. Remembering how it all started and getting to show our children as they grow such a wonderful time in our life and the beginning of theirs. Newborn Session
The moment your little one enters the world is the most overwhelming and incredible moment in your life. You’re in the purest newborn bubble and you don’t want it to pop! Although it can be a hard transition, understandably it is also so beautiful and it is a moment that quickly passes. So, capturing how tiny their fingers and toes are, their sleepy milk-drunk faces, their pouty lips and their unique features on camera is something I do with care, and in detail in my photography studio in Kent. If you’re looking for newborn photography in Kent or in surrounding areas then I’d love to enter your bubble with the intention of capturing beautiful pieces of wall art for your home, or for you to have a luxury album full of special memories. Sitter Session
These sessions are so lovely and usually done between the ages of 6-8 months – a milestone they have hit is when they hold themselves up without any support! Now this is an emotional one knowing they are becoming independent. In my photography studio in Kent, your little one will feel comfortable in my cosy space and as they ease into the session we will capture different poses and adorable smiles, giggles and big eyes! Remembering the time in their life when they sat up for the first time and how emotional it made you feel knowing they are growing up to be strong and independent – you can look back at these photos and it will be a reminder of their development. Cake Smash Session
A cake smash session to celebrate the first year of your baby’s life is so much fun! It is fun for your little one as they can get as messy as they like with no disruptions in my photography studio in Kent, whilst eating a delicious cake and it is fun for you to have photos of this moment! At this age they have grown up so much, their facial features are changing and they are developing an even stronger personality of their own. The facial expressions they pull during these sessions are one’s that make you swoon and giggle – so having them to share with family and for you to simply look back on is something you’ll never regret. The first year of your little one’s life is a huge milestone that is worth remembering and celebrating! Ready to Capture Your Baby’s Milestones? Now you know the baby milestones to capture in my photography studio in Kent, which one will you be inquiring about first? Let’s chat! Don’t miss out on capturing the journey of your little one, because before you know it they will be starting their own families! As parents we are proud of every little achievement and the ones that happen at the start of their lives can often get forgotten. As a mother myself of two, I know how fast time goes and soaking in every moment is important and that is why I love connecting with other parents in the same boat.  Welcome to the Whimsical World of Newborn Photography As a specialist in newborn photography based in Sidcup, Bexley, Kent, I have the privilege of witnessing the incredible journey of parents and their precious bundles of joy. The first few days with a newborn are an enchanting time filled with joy, tenderness, sleep deprivation and magical moments. In this blog post, I invite you to join me as we explore the magical world of newborn photography and discover the unique journey of parenthood.  Images that tell your story Capturing Fleeting Moments that Change and Disappear A Newborn's Fleeting Nature: Newborns have an extraordinary ability to change and grow in the blink of an eye. Their tiny fingers and toes, the soft tufts of hair, and the serene expressions are snapshot moments that deserve to be cherished forever, before you know it your tiny baby will be crawling away, climbing and exploring, eating and maternity leave will be over. As a newborn photography specialist, I am dedicated to preserving these fleeting moments and creating timeless artworks that capture the essence of your little one. The Power of Photography: Photography allows us to freeze time and preserve memories that otherwise might fade away within the sleepless nights and endless nappy changes. Each photograph tells a story, a beautiful narrative of your journey as a parent. The gentle embrace, the adoring gaze, and the delicate connection between you and your newborn are captured in the form of parent portraits, with love and care, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.  Capturing your connection and love The Uniqueness of the Parent's Journey and Baby Every Parent's Journey: Becoming a parent is a transformative experience, filled with an overwhelming mix of emotions. The excitement, the sleepless nights, the moments of doubt, and the deep-rooted love are all part of this incredible journey. Through my lens, I aim to capture the unique essence of your parenting experience, preserving the profound bond between you and your baby. The Beauty of Each Baby: Every baby is a masterpiece, unique in their own way. From their delicate features to their adorable quirks, each little one has their own story to tell. As a newborn specialist, I understand the importance of highlighting the individuality of your baby. With a combination of artistry and technical expertise, I create images that celebrate your baby's personality, creating a lasting tribute to their early days - portraits of their sleepy yawns, inquisitive eyes, windy smiles to set ups capturing your new baby amongst seasonal florals.  My Experience as a Newborn Specialist Expertise in Newborn Photography: With more than 10 years of experience and a passion for newborn photography, I have honed my skills in creating timeless and enchanting images. My cosy studio in Sidcup provides a warm and comfortable environment, ensuring both you and your newborn feel at ease throughout the session. From the delicate posing to the gentle lighting, every detail is carefully crafted to bring out the innate beauty of your baby. A Gentle Approach: Safety and comfort are my utmost priorities during newborn photography sessions. I understand the fragility of newborns and take great care in handling and posing them. With a gentle touch and a calm demeanour, your little one will be able to relax and sleep peacefully while I capture their beauty. Preserving the Magic for a Lifetime Creating Timeless Artworks: Each photograph is meticulously edited to enhance the softness, warmth, and ethereal quality that defines newborn imagery. Through careful post-processing, I transform these captured moments into timeless artworks that will be treasured for years to come. From delicate black and white portraits to vibrant colour images, the final collection is a reflection of the love and joy surrounding your newborn.  Cherish the Memories with Clare Long Photography
Are you expecting a little one or know someone who is? Take a moment to reach out to me and discuss your vision for a bespoke newborn photography session. Let's create a collection of photographs that will transport you back to those magical first few days with your baby. Contact me today and let's capture on this unforgettable journey. I love a good pancake - thick, fluffy American style or thin crepes, sweet or savoury…The kids love pancake day, any opportunity to spread Nutella on every meal!
I have put together a few links for you, save you goggling! Easy recipe: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/easy-pancakes American recipe: https://www.delscookingtwist.com/easy-fluffy-american-pancakes/ Egg free/Vegan: https://theplantbasedschool.com/vegan-pancakes/ Brunch pancakes: https://www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk/recipes/stilton-and-spinach-pancakes-with-soft-egg/ Savoury and great for the kids: https://www.annabelkarmel.com/recipes/cheese-ham-crepes/ Choc Chip Pancakes: https://www.julieseatsandtreats.com/chocolate-chip-pancakes/ My favourite: https://www.annabelkarmel.com/recipes/the-best-buttermilk-pancakes/ I am going to try these this year! https://www.annabelkarmel.com/recipes/buttermilk-pancakes-with-caramelised-bananas-milk-chocolate-sauce/ A few of these links are from the Annabelle Karmel website, she has lots of great information about weaning - which maybe a great read for some of the little ones I photographed over the summer that are hitting 6months! https://www.annabelkarmel.com/recipe-category/family-recipes/ https://www.annabelkarmel.com/weaning-recipes-with-piccolo-cherry-tomatoes/
In December I received the brilliant news that I had 6 images in the finals of 2 categories for The Guild of Photographer’s Image of the Year - Baby and Toddler and Newborn photography.
The Guild’s 2022 awards ceremony was held on 4th February 2023 in Stoke-on-Trent - the evening celebrates the success of photographer’s from not just around the UK, but internationally also, across a wide variety of genres.
The Image of the Year in the different categories kicked off the evening for me - The judges had chosen their 10 favourite stand alone images in each categories back in December and at the awards they announced the runner up and winning image. Not only did one of my favourite images of the year win runner up in the Baby and Toddler category, but one of my newborn images also came runner up in the Newborn category.
The image of Amaya (left) was a follow on from a photograph from her newborn session - during lockdown I had to temporarily close my business, like parents up and down the country I had to homeschool my daughter and we ended up spending a lot of time at our allotment. The allotment became such a joyful break from the world around us - and whilst I could not grow my business, I could grow food and flowers. This lead to me commissioning my greenhouse prop and creating the images that combined both my favourite things. This has continued to develop my use of florals which has grown and become more refined. More recently I have been exploring the meanings of flowers and plants along side my newborn imagery. The newborn image of Aarika shows her sleeping, surrounded by shasta daisies - which mean: 'happiness', 'cheerfulness', 'friendship' and 'wholeness'.
During the past year I have been submitting images regularly, pushing myself to create beautiful photographs for my clients, and, with their permission, entering them into competition. For me this is a good way to obtain feedback from internationally recognised judges and find ways to improve the standard of my work.
In doing so I was creating a body of work that on Saturday night gained me the title of Newborn Photographer of the Year 2022 and Photographer of the Year 2022. I can honestly say that my jaw dropped when my name was called! 
My goal is always to create the best possible for my clients, this will always be my aim - but to win a national title whilst doing this is just mind blowing to me.
The images from 2022 - all of which obtained a bronze or high award.
I am so excited to see what 2023 brings, I want to continue to develop my work with flowers, but most of all, I want to capture your precious babies and freeze time for you so you can remember always how teeny they once were.
Local Postnatal Doula and Yoga teacher Natalie about the benefits of yoga in pregnancy.Prenatal Yoga is a beautiful practice of self-care, offering many benefits for yourself, as well as your growing baby. It is an excellent way to prepare the mind, body and spirit for the many transitions you will experience during your pregnancy, labour and childbirth as well as the wonderful transition of being born into a Mother. Classes offer invaluable support, breathing techniques, modified poses, specifically for the pregnant body, which can help strengthen and relax your body, and sooth your mind during pregnancy, labour & the birth process. Additionally, these practices will give you the opportunity to connect more deeply with yourself and your growing baby. Through the practice of prenatal yoga it can help woman to gain physical & mental strength & emotional support, power and receptivity during their pregnancy. Classes offer a nurturing, safe space & the opportunity to discuss how you are feeling, any issues arising in your pregnancy which you may find wonderful tips and ideas from other Mums. We work on yoga postures and breathwork which may help manage or ease discomfort you may experience during each trimester. As baby grows and our bodies change, the practice of prenatal yoga offers tools to help manage the mental and physical energy and strength required during pregnancy, labour and birth. There are so many amazing benefits Prenatal Yoga can offer such as helping woman to enhance, strength & stamina, improves posture & circulation. As your baby grows within more energy & strength is required for the tremendous amount of work your body is doing daily to nourish little one, as well as carrying the weight of growing baby. Yoga helps our posture, alleviates tension in the pelvis, lower back, hips, chest, upper back, neck and shoulders as well as help us find our balance which is physically challenged as baby grows. Circulation is enhanced within our joints and our muscles are elongated during practice which helps decrease swelling & enhances our immunity creating a thriving place for baby to grow. Breath work practice is an invaluable tool to you will learn in prenatal yoga to help support you through your pregnancy, labor, birth and into motherhood. Through deep breathing, the nervous system goes into parasympathetic mode, which helps us relax, releases all the wonderful natural hormones in the body which can help ease discomfort, help sleep, digest food better & helps our immunity operate at optimal level. You will learn to consciously breath during each yoga pose, which may sometimes be challenging. This is a good tool for labor during surges /contractions. If we are consciously breathing, our blood pressure and heart rate is regulated keeping us in parasympathetic/relaxation mode. Calm mama means calm baby. This transfers into the time of labor, allowing one to practice being "comfortable with the uncomfortable" through our breathwork. As you inhale, you acknowledge the tension that is felt. As you deeply exhale, you let go of it more and more with each breath. These are some of the many wonderful benefits of prenatal yoga - one I encourage in all my classes is building a community! It can be very comforting to practice with other Mums to be who understand what we are going through. The age old saying “It takes a village to raise a child’ is very true! However now days with living across the globe, family or our village may not be close by. Prenatal yoga classes are a wonderful opportunity to gather your village and build a wonderful community to help support you during your pregnancy and into motherhood! Beginning a prenatal yoga practice allows us to slow down and focus attention on what is going on within our bodies. Through working with our breath and practicing each pose, you become more aware of what is going on within helping you to connect more deeply with baby. The practice of prenatal yoga is a wonderful invitation that allows us to stop and slow down from our busy days. Through the practice of yoga, you are setting an incredible intention of taking care of yourself and your baby. By Natalie Yunnie – Postnatal Doula & Yoga Teacher specialising in Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga Natalie teaches regularly at The Calm Collective in Sidcup and The Yoga House London. You can find out more about Natalie and the wonderful services she offers on Facebook or instagram @nattieyoga Are you a small business in and around Bexley that offers a wonderful service to mums to be and new mums? Get in touch and let me know if you would like a guest blog space!
 I think it as fair to say it's been a long 16 weeks since I shut the doors to my studio. I am thrilled to be back open now. It has been a stressful time, trying to ensure the safety of my wonderful clients and my family too, BUT I would not open unless I felt I could keep you all safe. With that in mind, I want to share with you what I have done to reassure you that my safe is safe. Now, most of the following points I did anyway - I always use hand santiser during a session, outfits, wraps and fabrics have always been washed between sessions and I have always cleaned. This should be standard practice with all photographers. I am now, however, leaving a minimum of 24hours between sessions, this does mean I can book fewer sessions but it allows me to air the studio trying to give any germs less of a chance to be transmitted between clients. I will be wearing a mask throughout the session and I have face masks available for any clients who do not have their own. I will be asking that siblings are only present in the studio for their photographs - this is to minimise the time they spend in an enclosed space.  Prior to all sessions I will need to confirm everyone has been well for the previous 72 hours. I will be taking my children's and my own temperature on a regular basis in order to comply with this. If you are a newborn client your session will be arranged between 14 and 21 days post birth, this is to allow a 14 day isolation from the hospital (this maybe changed depending on the hospital protocol).  During your session I will be asking you to social distance as much as possible, sometimes, with older babies I do need some help reassuring your little one, in these situations I will move further away to allow you and your little one space. I have rearranged the studio to allow a bit more space between my shooting area and your seating space as well.  With all these adjustments in place I feel the studio is as safe as it can possibly be, I am more than happy to discuss any points with you prior to your session to make sure we are all comfortable and I very, very much look forward to creating some beautiful images for you to cherish...Even if your little one is a little older than my usual newborn window - Little Asees just above came in at 3 months old for her session - we got some gorgeous sleepy shots, and some brilliant smiles too!  It is safe to say I made a very similar face picking up my camera again!
The overwhelm of having children home for an unknown length of time is some what real, within the space of a few days I have gone from one child in year one and one in pre school - to home, full time, education my responsibility, my job on pause (albeit for a very good reason). It is a lot. They want to go see their grandparents, they want to go to the swimming pool (something we did twice a week) the library, asking for pre school and their friends. It is going to be a long few weeks/months. Whilst I cannot fill your feeds with happy little faces tucking into cake, or sleepy newborns, all squishy and new, I hope to bring you some fun activities to break up the day - educational slants so you can fill their homework books, but most importantly, you can create memories of this time together. No matter the situation, I am focusing on this time with my babies. I am being realistic though, it wont be perfect, I will no doubt shout at times, there will be tantrums and there will be tears - but there will be cuddles, and laughter, smiles, there will be activities in the garden, growing food and flowers. As I type this my son is on my lap, giving me snuggles and despairing at how unfair it is that his sister is doing school work on my iPad!!!  I have made a list of activities to try. I hope that most of them are using things around the house, so and I have avoided anything with dried pasta or rice where possible!!! :) I would LOVE it if you can share any images of your kids doing these activities with me - I will have my camera out a lot in the new few weeks, so it would be amazing if you can grab some photos too <3
Don't forget to share some photos with me - please! I need to see other faces soon ;)
Stay safe, and sane... Parents, check out the self care blog I did - you need to look after yourself in all this!!! Cx  Being a new mum the concept of self-care might seem impossible, between the sleepless nights and a baby that seems to want nothing but you through the day finding time for yourself might be the last thing on your mind. I often have new mums come into my studio that say they barely have time for a shower or a hot drink in the first few months of motherhood.
Self-care is a little bit of a buzz word at the moment and its often a little misunderstood. Self-care is basically just caring for yourself as you do your new baby. I've listed a few ideas below that take less than 20 minutes for you to do and will leave you feeling recharged and ready to go.
Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, take a little time for you, you are just as important as your new addition. I absolutely love newborn shoots and I'm always so grateful when people choose me to capture such precious moments for them. I've been wanting to do a quick run down of questions that I get asked a lot about newborn sessions, as always though I'm always happy to answer any questions you have. When can I book my newborn shoot? You can book as early as you'd like, I've had some parents book as soon as they find out they are pregnant. I only take a small of newborn bookings every month to ensure I can fit you in when your little one joins us so it's best to book early to avoid disappointment. When is the best time to have a newborn shoot? Newborn shoots usually take place within the first 3 weeks, this tends to allow for a sleepy baby, so I take note of your due day and there and once you have had baby, simply let me know and we will set a date for the shoot.  How long does a newborn session take? This is a tricky one to answer as it depends on how settled your little one is. I usually allow up to four hours of studio time for my newborn session. 4 hours sounds like a lot, but between feeding, burping and getting your little one used to me moving them around it goes very quickly! Allowing a good block of time means we can keep it nice and relaxed and you don't feel pressured if they take a little while to drift off during the session. My baby is already here, is it too late to book in? It depends on the age of your newborn. It's easier to get the snuggly, sleepy shots the younger they are but we can always get some beautiful images. Feel free to contact me and we can discuss what we can do to make sure you have some perfect little memories. Can you do the newborn session in my house? Because of the huge amount of props and equipment I use to capture the perfect image it's sadly not practical for me to come to your home for the session.  What should I expect during the shoot? During your session I capture not only baby in a variety of poses but also with you, ensuring you have photographs as a family too. I always value your input as to colours, poses and props that you do and do not like. This way we can create the ideal photographs of your perfect little one. Can you tell me a little about your studio? I have a home studio, with wraps, bonnets and props to hand, and I keep the room nice and toasty warm for baby. I've got a whole host of white noise/lullabies on hand to make it as relaxing as possible for you and your new arrival. I'm based in Sidcup, not far from the high street and there is plenty of on street parking nearby. What if I don't like things like bonnets or props? Before every session I always discuss things that you would like to have included. You'll receive a questionnaire when you book with me to fill out and I'm always happy to work with you to make sure its absolutely perfect. What if my baby won't settle during the session? All babies are different, some are very settled and others aren't its part of what makes them so special. I've been working with little ones for so long now that I completely understand that each baby is totally different so please don't worry if they decide to test out their lungs on the day. I leave enough time in the session so that you can feed your little one as often as you need to and have picked up a few little tricks from my own two along the way that we can try.  Are we allowed to be in the pictures with our baby? Absolutely! I LOVE it when you get involved. If you have any older siblings they are more than welcome to join in too. Can I bring my own props/outfits? I have most things available in the studio, everything is carefully chosen to co ordinate to create the styled images you see on my social media/website. Should you have something sentimental you would like me to include this can be worked out for you :) Just let me know in advance if you can so I can plan it into the session. What if my baby has baby acne or flaky skin? Please don't worry about this, Almost all newborns have flaky skin or a few little spots, I am skilled in reducing how much is visible in the images if you’d like me to.  One of the things that I really enjoyed doing with my little ones before they started nursery and pre-school was trying out all of the local baby classes. Sidcup and Bexley has such a great variety we were never short of something new to try out. With so many first time parents coming through my studio recently I wanted to lend a little helping hand and list some of the ones in the area that are worth looking at. My absolute winner for a class was Sing and Sign. With both my kids it was the most amazing experience, and helped hugely with there communication and development. It kept frustration levels low and was such a fun and friendly class! Other options in the area are: Boppin Bunnies - These classes run on a Wednesday morning and are split into 0-18 months and 18 months-4 years. You can either pay per class or book a term of them in advance which works out a little cheaper. Both your little ones and you will use a huge range of instruments to develop your musical talents. It's a really interactive class and great for helping to develop those listening skills. Mummas and Beans - Satu runs a whole range of amazing classes on a Tuesday out of St Patricks Hall in Chislehurst from baby massage to baby yoga there really is something for everyone here. I'm personally a big fan of baby yoga so am really excited to see that Satu will be launching a class for slightly older babies soon.  Little Kickers Have you got a budding footballer in the family or maybe dad is just being hopeful. Either way Little Kickers gives a great introduction into the world of football on a Tuesday morning in Kidbrooke. The great thing about this class is that there is a progression all the way up until 7 years old. Lily's Learners A Wednesday class here but who doesn't love a good messy play session especially when its somewhere that means you don't have to clean up! Messy play is extremely important for a child's development. It provides children with an exciting tactile and sensory experience that inspires their curiosity, allows them to explore the world around them and enhances their learning, language and creativity. Crayzee Barn, Sidcup, DA14 5ET  Hartbeeps Hartbeeps was one of my all time favourite classes to take both of my children too, they offer absolutely magical classes from birth right up to pre-school age. Filled with original songs and sensory games my little ones enjoyed every session more than the last. Monkey Music These classes are so much fun, from 3 months to 4 years old your little ones will be so busy creating music and dancing their little socks off that they won't realise all the great life skills they are picking up along the way. They offer a free trial class too which is always a bonus if you've got fussier children to please. Have you got any favourites in the areas that I've missed off? I'd love to hear about them so I can add them to this list for new mums and dads!  Whilst you are blog reading, why not check out Falkirk Newborn Photographer Nicole. She has written about the best time for a newborn photography session :)
My studio has been a whirl of Christmas sparkle and Newborn magic recently so Cake Smashes have taken a bit of a back seat recently. Its such a shame because look at these amazing sessions that I've had recently.  There's not much that makes me smile more about my job than seeing my clients come back to me for their birthday cake smash sessions. Gone is the tiny curled up little newborn and in their place is this bundle of personality and character just itching to get stuck into that cake.  It's not all about the cake with my smash sessions though, they are a three part shoot which gives us plenty of opportunity to capture every little giggle and smile. We start off with some beautiful portrait shots, these can be done on a plain backdrop (set up in front of the main set) so you've got something a little more classical if you wanted.  Then comes the messy fun, the unique set for the smash is discussed beforehand and handmade by me to match your brief perfectly. Sometimes the little ones can be a little shy about getting stuck in so its always best that you wear clothes you don't mind getting a some cake on if they need a little encouragement. Wooden spoons often come in to play to give them a hand too, this can help if your little one is a little hesitate to start!  Some smashes are super messy, the cake goes everywhere. The cakes are included in the session fee, and made by my fab baker at Belles Bakery.  Some are a little more reserved, have a good taste and explore but prefer to leave the cake for Mum and Dad to enjoy at home with a cup of tea ;) you get to take the remaining cake home with you!  Finally we have a bubble bath to clean up, its a perfect opportunity to grab some happy bubbly pictures.   Cake smash sessions are £99 and you can find my image pricing here As you can probably tell from the photo spam that is this blog post, I do enjoy a cake smash! They are full of laughter and celebrations. I'd love to see more of you in for cake smashes in the new year so get in touch if you'd like to book in for your little ones first birthday shoot. Check our Yeovil photographer Sarah's blog this week on photos to capture this Christmas. She has a massive list of photographs you might want to capture this year to remember your festive fun.
I've had the same one since I was a little girl, my mum made them for my sisters and me when we we were young. Over the years my mum has been adding to the collection, she made my daughter one, and my husband, my niece and nephew and brother in law, we all have our own, very special advent calendar. This year my mum has been working hard on a gorgeous cross-stitched calendar for my little boy.
Each day has a little box tied to it with a treat inside and a festive picture underneath to count down the days. I love it so much each year it brings such memories of my childhood, Christmas Eve always contained a little gift, earrings when I was older, or a treasure hunt when my sisters and I were younger. I am so incredibly lucky to have such a talented mum.  Since my Christmas Mini shoots finished I've been left with a little less Christmas cheer in my day so I fell into the google and Pinterest black hole and started looking at all the other gorgeous ideas out there for re-usable calendars and who knew there were so many out there!
Hobby Craft have some amazing sets, so you can personalise yours as you wish. Glitter and Caffeine (amazing blog tittle!!!) has some beautiful ideas to get crafty this advent season. If you don't feel so crafty, but still want to invest in a re usable advent calendar to start a new tradition and reduce waste Etsy and Not on The High Street have some amazing UK sellers, here are a couple of my favourites: LisaAngelLtd has a beautiful personalised LED calendar, or a wonderful advent train! BettyLovesUK has a really sweet tree which you add colourful baubles to - but her last Christmas order is tonight! So get in there quickly! Phoebesflummery offers a wooden box calendar with a scandi feel, perfect for little toys or treats! The Alphabet Gift Shop has a very festive wooden reindeer! I know my kids would love one of these (but nothing beats Nanna's special calendars in this house!). Bespoke & Oak Co offer this fabulous personalised 'Count Down to Christmas Advent Box' From wooden boxes to fabric designs, reusable advent calendars are the way forward and here are some ideas of gifts to go inside them.
I can't wait for Joshua to see his calendar and I'd love to see pictures of yours this year too! On my googling search I came across Natalie Moss's blog, a few weeks back she posted about Christmas gifts. Natalie is a Maternity photographer in Surrey, she has blogged about this week.  I don't know if its psychological or not but it seems like since the clocks went back it really does seem like the days have got colder. Winter coats and hats are a must on the school run now and of course that means the endless fights with willful little ones to get them to stay wrapped up, I'm sure my little man can take a jacket off in under 2 seconds - and that is after endless arguments to get him in it! It can be incredibly frustrating when answering yet another why should I wear a coat as you're rushing to get out the door so here are a few tips to hopefully make things a little easier on you all.  1) Find a coat they are excited to wear - it sounds so simple but involving your little one in the winter coat shop this year could help overcome their resistance to wearing it. 2) Make sure it's comfortable - children are always on the move so making sure they aren't restricted in it means that it's less likely to be cast aside halfway around the climbing frame. 3) Sometimes we don't give our little ones credit for how much they understand, explain to them that they could get poorly if they don't wear their coat. If your child is little, you can use animals as an example. Animals wear coats of fur because they get cold, too, and without their coat, they would be very sick. 4) Make a big fuss of them - my little ones love to be told how grown up/handsome/cute they look. Who wouldn't loved to be told that they are beautiful and how proud you are of them for wearing their new coat! If you do find that special coat that they love to wear how about booking in for an outdoor family photoshoot with me more information can be found here: http://www.clarelongphotography.com/prices.html  Hertford Photographer Joanne has some fab outdoor photography for inspiration.
Why do I love a sitter session? I get to meet so many of your gorgeous newborns in the first few days of their life which is such a magical time that its easy to forget that some of the best memories are yet to come.  Sitter sessions are usually done around 6 months, your little one can sit up independently but isn't quite the crawling escape artist they will soon become. Its such an amazing age to capture on camera, their personalities are developing and they are full of smiles and funny faces that make for amazing pictures to look back on. It is a great chance to capture the incredible changes that happen in such a short space of time.  Before each session I speak with the you and get a feel for what colours and props you'd like included in your shoot. Each one is as unique are your little one, just take a look at these recent sitter sessions to see what sort of thing you can expect. Sessions are around 45 minutes long in my Sidcup studio, giving up the perfect session to capture your little one showing off their new sitting skills, on their tummy and chewing toes!  If you'd like to find out more about my sitter sessions click here or contact me on [email protected]  This clock change has my toddler up SUPER early, I was looking at some photographer friend's blogs and thought I would share Derbyshire baby photographer Kathryn Hill's link for tips on settling newborn babies!
So some of you might have noticed that I published a post the other day about an award that I won that was a pretty big deal for me. I've been entering the Guild Of Photographers monthly awards for a while now and I've been consistently scoring "Bronze" in the newborn category which is an amazing compliment to my work (and your beautiful babies). I wouldn't be me though if I didn't always want to push to improve and this month after an impromptu model call for an Autumn themed newborn shoot I managed to set up this image which finally scored me hopefully the first of many Silver Awards - which The Guild of Photograph's describe as: "A Silver Bar .. Images that are very well crafted (difficult to achieve)."  I always want offer my clients something new and be at the top of my game so to have my work recognised like this just pushes me to try harder. The Newborn Photography category must is such a difficult one to judge, I'm not sure I could do it so I'm incredibly happy one of mine scored so highly, alongside some truly incredible photographers.
All of these images are set up in my studio, you get to see your baby in all the set ups and poses. I don't use digital backgrounds as a general rule which means you get something handcrafted for you. You also get to coo over your tiny baby surrounded by seasonal props or as per the image below, the mum's wedding sari.  My newborn sessions are booking up fast with almost all my spaces for January already taken so if you're expecting or know someone who is that would like a newborn shoot make sure you get in touch with me soon.
To check out another silver award winner, take a look at Louise's blog, she is a baby Photography Haywards Heath , which some gorgeous sitter images.
It really doesn't seem like its been two minutes since my eldest went back to school in September and yet here we are already at the October half term. With sunny days a distant memory the October holidays can be a tricky one for keeping restless little ones entertained. I've made a handy little list for you all of some fun things to do in the area over the coming weeks. I can't wait to try out Gruffalo Pot Painting and I know that youngest is going to have so much fun at the Halloween party! Gruffalo Pot Painting https://hoop.co.uk/e/8KnbdL/ Code Creators (Scratch Jr:3-5's) https://hoop.co.uk/e/kxfJLH/ Ice Tickles Children's Halloween Party https://hoop.co.uk/e/zue45R/ Kids October Technology Camp https://hoop.co.uk/e/6VHC95/ Light Party https://hoop.co.uk/e/U8fd9a/ Story makers Half Time Special https://hoop.co.uk/e/DrNRMg/ Pumpkin Carving https://www.mudchute.org/news/october-half-term-activities-2019 https://www.familiesonline.co.uk/local/west-kent/whats-on/gruffalo-spotters-jeskyns-community-woodlands If you don't fancy venturing out of the house (and who could blame you with the rain lately) this link is great for ideas of crafty things to do at home when normal crayons and stickers just aren't cutting it anymore. https://whereimaginationgrows.com/october-crafts-activities-calendar/ Or take a look at my instagram stories today to see a cute little halloween spider craft!
 I'm looking forward to seeing some of you for family shoots over the coming weeks and of course Christmas Minis are almost here too. There's still a few sessions free on Sunday the 10th if you've not booked yet. Whatever you choose to do make sure you take lots of pictures and have fun! I love checking out other photographer's work, I have a couple of maternity shoots soon, and love Brooke's work over at Sandpiper Photography, she is a Sunshine Coast Maternity Photographer x
The countdown is on and I couldn't be more excited! The response to them this year was completely overwhelming, so much so that we I had to add another date as they sold out so quickly. If you missed out I've still got a few spaces left but grab one quickly if you want it!
https://clarelongphotography.bigcartel.com/category/photography-session Every year I get a little carried away with my Pinterest obsession and create an ideas board for you to look at and this year is no different! I know that some of you are keen to get shopping (me too after making this board) so wanted to get the suggestions out to you all ASAP. This year I'm recommending soft neutral colours so think blush pinks and pale turquoise for the girls and gorgeous pale grey tailoring and cream knitwear for the little men. As usual try to avoid anything with busy patterns or logos that will take the attention away from the cheeky smiles and laughing faces I know that we are going to get. http://pin.it/ygpxavo6kupjfu I'm totally in love with the pale blue faux-fur collar jacket from Monsoon so if anyone else feels the same way you'd make me a very happy Photographer at your session ;-) I can't wait to see you all soon. If you have any questions about our session let me know.
Whilst on the hunt for outfits I came across Hannah Willis, a newborn photographer from Willaston, she has a fabulous list of suppliers for me to have a look through for my newborn work! This is super helpful for newborn photographers when they are searching for new props!
https://www.cherishforeverphotography.com/blog/where-do-i-buy-my-props-from  Book your session early to avoid disappointment. I love new parents arriving at my home studio in Sidcup for their newborn session. The love, excitement....exhaustion is always so clear and brings a rush of memories for me every time. Those first few weeks meeting and getting to know your new baby is filled with so many emotions. I am super lucky, I get to cuddle and capture your brand new, most important aspect of your life. I get to freeze them as a 7(ish)lb ball of utter cuteness before they grow so very, very quickly. You get to chill out, catch up on messages, some (dads usually!) have a little nap, whilst I create beautiful images for you to display at home, share with friends and family and pass down when your little tiny person is not so tiny anymore.  Newborn sessions are usually done within the first 3 weeks, so I only take on a set number of newborns a month. Lately, I have had a lot of enquiries for newborn sessions, for babies that are already a week or so old. I hate to turn people away, I don't like to disappoint or to let people down, however I can only take on a certain number of shoots a week/month. Most of these slots are booked well in advance, and so trying to squeeze people in around existing bookings and my two munchkins is quite tricky. I would hate for you to be disappointed, so please, please do let me know your due date and get booked in.  Each session is tailored to you and your family - colours and props to suit your home and preference. When booking with me I never set a firm date, so when baby arrives all you have to do is let me know and we can move things around to suit - whether baby has come early or late I adjust to fit you - so you don't need to worry about exact dates when booking early. I am currently taking bookings for February...As soon as you feel comfortable, whether that be after your 20 week scan, or as you enter your 3rd trimester, add 'Find photographer' to your baby list - or even better 'Book Clare for photos' ;)  Sibling shots are always welcome during a session! From October 2019 all newborn bookings received before you are 33 weeks pregnant will get a 10 image keepsake accordion as a complimentary gift <3  In December my studio will have a slight change of use for one day as I play host to the fabulous Emma Sohl - a newborn photographer in Milton Keynes who is going to be running a workshop for photographers - I am so excited to have her here, meet some other photographers and learn new things!
https://capturethelightphoto.co.uk/babies-and-dogs-sure-why-not/ I have a list for this summer, plenty of days out, so I can swap, change and ask my little ones what they fancy. I will also be posting a list of rainy day and days at home activities, because they will be needed for sure!!!
I have tried to keep the options within about an hours drive, as this is more doable for me and the two littles alone - danger naps are an issue for my 2 year old right now! There’s a great selection of family events at the Southbank Centre’s summertime festival, ranging from free performances - like outdoor circus on the terrace or a sea shanty singalong - to paid for events. One highlight is ZooNation Presents the Next Generation, a stage show featuring some of the best young hip-hop artists in the country, performing everything from dance, music, spoken word to beatboxing. • 22 July-28 August, prices vary southbankcentre.co.uk Lark in the Park http://larksidcup.com/ The big museums and galleries are mostly free, so the Science Museum and Natural History museum are on my list too. If you are more arty, the National Gallery is running drop in workshops: https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/events/workshop-holiday-drop-in-workshop-take-one-picture-august-2019 There is a working farm you can visit not far - they have a great summer option for animal lovers: https://www.surreydocksfarm.org.uk/holiday-activities/ The Postal Museum and Mail Rail, a new heritage attraction, opens on 28 July. There is a play zone for under-nines called Sorted, designed as a miniature town, and an underground train ride into the old engineering depot (may not be suitable for under-fives). Family activities include arts and crafts, storytelling and science shows. • From 28 July, £14.50 adults, children £7.25, postalmuseum.org Bedgebury pinetum is lovely 😊 great for bikes and scooters. Bewel water - take a picnic and enjoy. Bluewater nature trail - very local and easy if you need to drop in and grab a few shopping bits!! Botany Bay - a further drive but a great beach day. Broaditch Farm - 30min drive Buttercups goat sanctuary (Maidstone) Buzy bees, New Ash Cascades little train - 35min drive Chatham Dockyard - currently has Lego through the ages. Tickets valid for a year, so you can get your monies worth. Cheeky Dino, Maidstone (softplay, great for a miserable day) Christmas Tree Farm Cliffe pools is amazing too (45mins) Cobtree Park - next to Kentlife (big play park £1.50 parking). Cyclopark Danson Park - has play park & water play Dartford Central park is free! Mini splash play area. Eagle Heights Eltham Palace grounds are free. Foots Cray Meadows – picnic and paddling - I love shooting here and going for a wander! Gravesend has the fort gardens. Chantry house museum is free and the bunker tunnels are £1! There's the prom and the park. A little cafe. A pretty, short walk around. It's lovely there. It's also part of the wheels of time trail around Kent. Greenwich Ecology Park is free and often has special events in the holidays. Groombridge place (45min drive) https://www.groombridgeplace.com/the-attraction/attractions/ Hall place - lovely, free to enter and beautiful grounds. Lots of trees and shade plus a little stream running through it, they run some fab activities for the kids. Herne Bay - good for crabbing Hobbledown Farm (1hr drive) Horniman Museum Jeskyns Park (30min drive) Kent life Leeds castle Little fant farm Little Street, Maidstone - My kids LOVE it here. Lullingston country park Maidstone museum Maidstone Leisure Centre - has soft play and Ice Hills. It's also right next to Mote Park in Maidstone so great for a morning of activity then a picnic and a wander in the fresh air Manor park Millbrook garden centre - check out events/butterfly experience Milton creek country park - Dog walkers, cyclists & joggers frequent this large green space with a kids' play area & trails. Minis bay Mote park Oxleas Woods is lovely Rare breeds centre Ruxley Manor - Pixie Manor is always popular https://www.ruxley-manor.co.uk/events-attractions/ Shorne woods country park Southwater country park. Has a mini beach, dinosaurs, kids park etc and it’s free (1hr away) Swanley Park – great outdoors Tilgate Park (apparently it is fantastic – 1 hour drive) Trosley Park - lots of shade Tyland barn - Kent wildlife trust (30min drive) National Trust and English Heritage both run events through the summer: National Trust are running craft days and pebble painting locally: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/search?type=event&query=My+location%2C+Sidcup+DA14+6RF%2C+UK&lat=51.42872180&lon=0.09341890 or if you fancy Knights and Jousting English heritage have got various events: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/knights-jousts-events/ L:et me |
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Newborn, baby and family photography by Clare Long Photography, Sidcup, Bexley, Kent and London.
© Clare Long Photography 2024
© Clare Long Photography 2024