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Capturing Newborn Magic: Essential Tips from Bella Daly Photography

Capturing Newborn Magic: Essential Tips from Bella Daly Photography

Welcoming a new baby into the family is a big thing, and what better way to freeze those precious early moments than with a professional photoshoot? At Bella Daly Photography, we specialize in creating stunning, timeless images that capture the essence of your little one. I’ve gathered some key tips and tricks from my past sessions with brand new parents, and I’m excited to share them with you here!

1. Swaddling for Comfort and Calm:

Swaddling is like giving your baby a cozy hug. This age-old technique helps mimic the snug environment of the womb, making your newborn feel secure and relaxed. During our sessions, we use the softest, breathable fabrics to wrap your baby gently. It’s not just for the adorable photos, but it also keeps your little one content and soothed, making it easier to capture those serene, peaceful moments.

2. The Magic of White Noise:

Meet your new best friend: the white noise machine! This little gadget mimics the comforting sounds of the womb and can be a game-changer during photoshoots. At Bella Daly Photography, we often use white noise to create a calm, serene environment, allowing us to capture those sweet, sleepy expressions without any fuss. You might want to incorporate white noise into your baby’s routine at home for some extra relaxation and better sleep. My favourite is Dreamegg White Noice Machine. 

 

3. Gentle Rocking with Rockit:

One of our secret weapons is the Rockit, a nifty device that gently rocks our posing bed. Originally designed for buggies, the Rockit provides a smooth, rhythmic motion that can soothe even the fussiest of newborns. This gentle rocking helps keep your baby relaxed and comfortable, ensuring we get the best shots without any unnecessary stress.

 

4. Breast-like Dummies for Breastfed Babies:

For breastfeeding babies, finding a dummy that closely resembles the breast can be key to keeping them calm and happy during a photoshoot. We recommend dummies designed to mimic the natural shape and feel of a mother’s breast. These can help soothe your baby without causing nipple confusion, making it easier to capture those serene, content moments.My go to are Tommee Tippee Breast-Like Soother. 

 

 

5. Effective Burping Techniques:

Newborns often need to be burped to avoid discomfort from trapped air. During your session, you’ll see how we use gentle burping techniques to help your baby feel more comfortable. A well-burped baby is a happy baby, and this can make a significant difference in the overall success of your photoshoot. Learning these techniques can also be beneficial for you at home, ensuring your little one remains content and free from discomfort.

6. The Importance of a UV Sterilizer:

Safety first! We use a Nuby UV Dummy sterilizer and ensure all props, and equipment are thoroughly sanitizedThe Nuby UV Dummy Sterilizer is not only effective but also highly convenient. Its portable design comes with a handy strap, making it easy to attach to a buggy or bag. This stylish and practical accessory is a must-have for any parent on the go, ensuring that your baby’s essentials are always clean and safe.

All of the above helps Bella Daly Photography ensure your newborn’s first photoshoot is smooth and stress-free. We prioritize your baby’s comfort and well-being, and every detail is carefully considered to capture the magic of those early days. We can’t wait to provide you with beautiful, timeless images that you’ll cherish forever.

Safety and newborn sessions: all you need to know

Safety and newborn sessions: all you need to know

Safety and Newborn Sessions: All You Need to Know

Welcoming a newborn into the world is a momentous occasion, often marked by capturing those first precious moments through photography. Newborn sessions are a wonderful way to create lasting memories, but ensuring the safety and comfort of the baby is paramount. Here, we delve into essential tips and guidelines to ensure a safe and successful newborn photography session.

Choosing the Right Photographer

The first step in ensuring a safe newborn session is selecting the right photographer. Look for a professional who specializes in newborn photography and has extensive experience handling infants. A reputable photographer will have knowledge of safe posing techniques and the ability to create a soothing environment. Checking reviews, viewing portfolios, and having a preliminary discussion about their safety protocols can provide peace of mind. If you choose Bella Daly Photography, you can be sure that safety is the first priority. Bella Daly is trained in safe newborn posing by leading UK photographers, holds first aid certification, and is fully insured. Bella Daly is committed to ensuring that every session is conducted with the utmost care for your baby’s wellbeing.

Safe Posing and Props

Safety should never be compromised for the sake of a perfect shot. Your photographer should always ensure that the baby’s head and neck are adequately supported. Many popular poses are actually composites, where the baby is safely supported at all times, and the final image is created through digital editing. You’ll be right by your baby’s side throughout the entire session, and you’re encouraged to be hands-on as well. The photographer will guide you on how to safely support and soothe your little one during the photos. Your comfort and peace of mind are just as important as your baby’s safety.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

The environment plays a crucial role in a safe and successful newborn session. The room should be warm, ideally around 26 degrees Celsius, to keep the baby comfortable, as newborns can easily become cold. White noise machines can help keep the baby calm and asleep during the session. When you work with Bella Daly Photography, you can trust that these important details are carefully managed to create a serene and safe setting for your newborn.

With these safety measures in place, you can have peace of mind knowing your newborn photo session will be a positive, worry-free experience. Your baby’s wellbeing is the top priority, and you can trust that they will be in caring, capable hands. I look forward to capturing your precious bundle of joy in a safe, comfortable setting. Remember, the well-being of your baby is the most important aspect of any photography session.

Composite image – A photo of the dog combined with another photo of the twins, with the parents' supporting hands edited out.

Unlocking My Infant Archives: A Photographer’s Accidental Flashback

As a child, I always felt a little different – like I had somehow been adopted, since there were never any photos of me as a baby around our house. Meanwhile, my younger brothers’ baby pictures were displayed proudly throughout our home. It was a nagging feeling that stuck with me over the years.

That all changed just a few years ago, right before I decided to specialize in newborn photography. I was going through some of my late father’s old belongings when I came across his trusty analog camera. When I opened it up, I found an undeveloped roll of film inside. 

I quickly took it to get developed, and what I found brought me to tears. There, captured on those faded negatives, were the most precious images – photos of me as a newborn, wrapped in a soft white vintage pillowcase and cradled in the arms of my mother and grandmother. My grandmother, who had passed away years ago, was beaming as she embraced my mother.

Seeing those images for the first time was an incredibly powerful experience. It made me realize just how important it is to document those early, fleeting moments with your child. Studies have shown that children who grow up surrounded by photos of themselves as babies tend to have higher self-esteem and feel more loved and accepted.

That realization is a big part of what inspired me to become a newborn photographer. I know firsthand how much those images can mean, not just for the parents, but for the child as they grow up. My mission is to help other families preserve those priceless memories and ensure their little ones always feel seen and cherished.

So if you’re on the fence about booking a newborn session, I’d encourage you to take the leap. Those first few weeks go by in the blink of an eye, but the images you capture will be treasured for a lifetime.   

My nana Ala, Mum & me
Me
My Daughter 😀

Surviving Summer with a new puppy – top 10 tips!

As a newborn, maternity, and pet photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how the hot summer months can be tough on our four-legged family members, just as much as our human babies. Puppies, like newborns, require special care and attention to help them thrive in the summer heat. That’s why I’ve put together 10 top tips to help you and your furry friend make it through the dog days of summer.

1. Keep them cool. Provide plenty of shade, access to water, and even a kiddie pool for your pup to splash around in.

2. Go for early/late walks. Plan walks during the cooler morning and evening hours to avoid the midday sun.

3. Avoid hot surfaces. Pavements and asphalt can burn sensitive paws, so opt for grass or carry your pup when it’s hot out.

4. Groom regularly. Regular brushing and trims will help keep your pup’s coat light and airy for the summer.

5. Travel smart. Never leave your dog unattended in a hot car, and make sure they have proper ventilation when riding with you.

6. Provide frozen treats. Homemade pupsicles or frozen Kong toys can help keep your pup hydrated and entertained.

7. Protect from pests. Use pet-safe bug repellent and check for ticks after walks to keep your furry friend comfortable.

8. Give them a space to chill. Set up a cozy, air-conditioned spot in your home for your pup to retreat to when it’s too hot outside.

9. Stay alert for signs of heat stress. Know the signs of heatstroke and be prepared to get your pup immediate veterinary care if needed.

10. Capture the memories. Take plenty of pictures to document your pup’s sunny adventures!

Just like with newborn babies, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on our four-legged friends during the hot summer months. 

Why Choosing the Right Newborn Photographer Matters

Welcoming a newborn into your family is an incredibly joyous occasion. Those first days with your baby are precious and fleeting, making it essential to capture these moments through photography. But selecting the right newborn photographer isn’t just about snapping pictures; it’s about ensuring your baby’s safety, comfort, and capturing their unique essence. Here’s why it’s important to find a photographer you feel comfortable with and trust.

Firstly, you can’t turn back time to capture those early days again. Newborns grow and change remarkably fast, and those initial weeks are a once-in-a-lifetime chance to document their tiny features and first expressions. A professional newborn photographer understands this and is skilled at capturing these moments with care. But technical skills aren’t enough. You need someone who can make both you and your baby feel relaxed and comfortable. This ease and trust will shine through in the photos, creating images that are genuine and heartfelt.

Moreover, working with newborns requires specialized knowledge and skills. A qualified newborn photographer should be trained in safe baby posing techniques to ensure your baby is never at risk during a photoshoot. They should also have first aid training and be prepared to handle emergencies, no matter how rare. Additionally, make sure your photographer is business-registered and insured. This not only adds a layer of professionalism but also assures you they adhere to industry standards and regulations. Remember, being a parent doesn’t automatically make someone a good newborn photographer. It requires specific training, a keen eye for detail, and a deep understanding of newborn safety.

In conclusion, choosing the right newborn photographer is a decision that should be made with care. Beyond looking at their portfolio, consider their training, qualifications, and the level of comfort and trust you feel with them. After all, these are the first memories of your new family member, and they deserve to be captured by someone who can ensure their safety while creating timeless, beautiful images. Investing in a professional, qualified newborn photographer is an investment in preserving the first chapter of your baby’s life story in the best way possible.

Bumping Up the Volume One Shot at a Time

Bumping Up the Volume One Shot at a Time

Let me tell you a story when I entered two images of a pregnant woman into a photography competition. The first image depicted a soft, feminine pose of a mother-to-be filled with love and longing for her baby, while the second captured the same pregnant woman exuding power and confidence in a queen-like stance. She is stoic and ready for her incredible motherhood journey ahead of her. 

Image 1
Image 2

In the world of photography, every image tells a story, and every judge brings their own perspective to the table.  There were two judges; female and male. The female judge awarded the second image with 19 points (out of 20 max), appreciating the strength it portrayed. However, the male judge, stuck in antiquated views, marked it down to 17 claiming the pose was TOO POWERFUL, suggesting that women, especially pregnant women, shouldn’t be portrayed as such in photography. Can you believe it?!?!?

The first image won the best mono image of the year award, but the whole experience left a sour taste in my mouth because of prejudices and expectations placed on women. The notion that women should be feminine and nurturing rather than also strong and powerful is a stereotype that needs to be shattered. It’s disheartening to witness how deeply ingrained these outdated beliefs still are in certain circles, especially in the realm of photography where women should be celebrated in all their diverse facets and expressions – whether it be soft and loving or strong and resilient. Each woman deserves to be seen and celebrated for who she truly is, free from societal expectations and biases.

This experience fueled my commitment to empower women through my maternity sessions at Bella Daly Photography. My mission is clear: to celebrate the beauty and strength of women during pregnancy and beyond. To provide a safe, welcoming space for new mothers to express themselves, capturing their unique moments with authenticity and pride. You are a warrior, a goddess, a queen, as well as you are lovingnurturingcaring and adaptable – and you deserve to be seen and celebrated, regardless of outdated expectations or judgments. Stand tall, embrace your power, and let your story shine through my lens.

So…with that said, here are 3 Reasons Why My Maternity Sessions Are Perfect for You

1. If you’re tired of the same old maternity photography that sticks to traditional poses and societal expectations, then you’ll find Bella Daly Photography a breath of fresh air. I am committed to shattering the mold of conventional pregnancy portraits, celebrating the unique journey of each woman into motherhood with images that reflect the true diversity and individuality of the experience.

2. For those who are ready to embrace their strength, power, and uniqueness during pregnancy, my maternity sessions are designed with you in mind. I focus on capturing the genuine, unfiltered moments that reveal the inner warrior, goddess, and queen in every expectant mother. It’s more than photography to me; it’s about empowering women to take control of their narrative and redefine what maternity photography means.

3. If you’re searching for a photographer who goes beyond merely capturing posed, predictable shots to truly exploring the emotion and meaning in those special moments, then my maternity sessions will resonate with you. I pride myself on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where women can express themselves freely, letting their authentic selves be captured in stunning photographs. With me, it’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about authentically telling your story with pride, honesty, and beauty.

If you are curious to learn more about my approach to maternity photography sessions, read my other blog on “You Deserve to be Seen

Want to know more

on how I help you celebrate your inner goddess?

You Deserve to BE SEEN!

You Deserve to BE SEEN!

aka Who Does She Think She Is?!?!?!

The why: 

WHO DOES SHE THINK SHE IS?  It’s a question often hurled at women who exude confidence, power, and beauty. 

It’s no secret that women face unrealistic expectations when it comes to their appearance, behavior, and achievements. These expectations can create a toxic environment that prevents women from loving themselves for who they are. The pressure to look a certain way, act a certain way, and achieve unrealistic goals can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and anxiety.

The media, advertising, and societal norms have created a distorted image of what it means to be a woman. Women are often portrayed as flawless, perfect beings who never have a bad day. This unrealistic image can lead women to feel like they’re not good enough or that they need to change themselves to fit in.

It’s time to break free from these unrealistic expectations and embrace self-love. Women deserve to feel confident and proud of who they are, regardless of their appearance, behavior, or achievements. At Bella Daly Photography, we believe that every woman deserves to be seen and celebrated. We strive to create a safe and supportive space where women can feel comfortable in their own skin and embrace their unique beauty. We believe in giving women permission to be seen and captured through our personalized photoshoots. 

Our sessions are designed to capture the unique beauty of each woman, while also celebrating the incredible journey of motherhood. Whether it’s your first pregnancy or you’ve experienced this joy before, we will help you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. 

SO, LET NO ONE HOLD YOU BACK. YOU ARE A WARRIOR, A GODDESS, A QUEEN, AND YOU DESERVE TO BE SEEN AND CELEBRATED. Embrace your true self and know that you are worthy of love and acceptance just the way you are.

Erica from Fermoy – mum to be, a goddess, queen and a beautiful person insight and out

The how: 

I believe that every pregnancy is unique and special, and I’m dedicated to capturing your true personality and style in your photographs. I don’t rely on heavy retouching or Photoshop to significantly alter your appearance. Instead, I aim to capture your natural beauty, genuine emotions, and authentic moments. 

As a photographer, I understand the importance of shaping the body and image with shadow and light. It’s all about creating depth and dimension, highlighting your best features while minimizing any imperfections. But more than that, it’s about capturing the essence of who you are.

At Bella Daly Photography, we celebrate the beauty and strength of women during the incredible journey of pregnancy and beyond. Our mission is to create a safe and welcoming space where new mothers can express their individuality and capture their precious moments (whether it’s during the journey of pregnancy or the early days with a newbornn). So, let no one hold you back. You are a warrior, a goddess, a queen, and you deserve to be seen and celebrated.

Planning your session

To get the best results, I recommend scheduling your session to fall between 28-36 weeks of pregnancy, when your belly is round and pops but you’re not yet feeling too uncomfortable. 

And if you want to pamper yourself, I suggest treating yourself to hair and makeup to enhance your natural beauty and reflect in your images. If you choose my BELLY BEAUTIFUL package, hair and makeup are included in your session. Your hair will be styled at the nearby hair salon Vibrance, and your makeup will be expertly applied by Kelly. This means that you can sit back, relax, and let the professionals work their magic, leaving you looking and feeling your absolute best.

Once you have booked a session with me, I will send you a QUESTIONNAIRE to fill out. This is an essential part of helping me understand your personality, preferences, and vision, which I use to plan a unique and personalized session just for you. 

Additionally, I will ask you to send me a few images via WhatsApp, Messenger, Email or Instagram (your pick) that inspire you. Don’t worry; I won’t replicate these images during our session, but they will help me create a vision board that we’ll discuss on the day of our meeting.

Before the session, please read my prep guide. It includes important information such as when to book, how long the session will take, the location, what to wear, what about nails, and how to make the most of your session. All of this information combined will create an amazing experience that you will never forget!

IMPORTANT! The one thing I would need you to definitely bring is a nude colour strapless bra and thongs or g-string, as we will be working with see-through fabrics.

Daiva – strong and powerful first time mum to be. A healer, adventurer, survivor, creator 

Toma and her family, from Cork – adaptable, compassionate, understanding & strong

During the session

First thing first – you will be welcomed with a champagne glass full of freshly squeezed orange juice – AND WHY NOT?!. 

In my studio sessions, my aim is to create timeless portraits that are both simple and elegant. I achieve this by using simple backgrounds and carefully selected outfits, such as a black dress or bodysuit, along with beautiful fabrics that evoke a dreamy and ethereal quality. I have a selection of outfits and fabrics in my studio but I also encourage you to bring something that is yours (i.e. white shirt, leather jacket, your boho dress, black lace bra, etc. – something that represents your style). 

I also enjoy creating powerful images that depict women as queens or other strong figures (i.e. Beyonce or whoever inspires you). By carefully crafting each shot, I aim to create a lasting and impactful image that truly captures the essence of the person in front of my lens.

This session is focused on celebrating your journey as a woman bringing new life into the world. If you’d like to include your partner, children, sister, mother or a furry baby for some of the images, I recommend we invite them to join you for the last 30 minutes of the session. While this day is primarily about you and empowering your beauty as a mother-to-be, having your loved ones with you can add a special touch to the experience.

If you plan on bringing your partner or children or mother/sister, etc.r to your photo session, it’s best if you all coordinate your outfits. I recommend sticking to solid colors and avoiding patterns and logos to ensure that the focus remains on you and your baby. This will also help to make sure that your photos remain timeless and beautiful for years to come. For your convenience, my prep guide contains a Pinterest board that features suggested colors to aid you in your outfit selection. Feel free to browse and explore. 

 

After the session:

After your photo session with Bella Daly Photography, your images will go through a careful selection process to ensure that only the best ones are included in your final gallery. 

Once I edited the images, I invite you to a viewing appointment where you will have the opportunity to view your images and select the best ones, or ALL, for your final gallery. 

Additionally, I will showcase various framing options and other add-ons so you can create a collection that perfectly suits your needs.

I look forward to seeing you and creating a beautiful collection of photos that you will cherish forever.

Ready to book?

and celebrate your inner goddess?

5 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Newborn Photographer

Choosing the right newborn photographer is crucial to capture those special moments with your newborn baby. You wouldn’t ask a friend to deliver your baby just because they’ve had one themselves, nor you would ask your sibling to cut your hair because they own a pair of scissors.  It’s important to research how a photographer aims to capture the moment.Here are 5 tips to help you make the right choice.

  1. Look for experience: Newborn photography requires a special set of skills, so it’s important to look for a photographer who has experience in this area. Check their portfolio and reviews to ensure that they have successfully captured newborns before. 
  2. Style: Every photographer has their own style, so make sure to choose one whose style aligns with your vision. Do you want posed studio shots or more natural lifestyle photos? 
  3. Safety: Safety should always be your and your photographer’s number one priority. Make sure that the photographer you choose has experience in handling newborn babies and follows safe practices, is trained in safe newborn posing and first aid certified. 
  4. Read reviews: Check out reviews from previous clients to see what they say about the photographer’s professionalism, quality of work, and overall experience.
  5. Discuss Pricing: The price of newborn photography can vary greatly depending on the photographer and package options. Make sure you understand the photographer’s pricing structure and what is included in their package. It’s important to consider your budget when choosing a photographer for your newborn.

Bonus tip: Schedule in advance: Newborn photography should ideally take place within the first two weeks of the baby’s life, so it’s important to schedule in advance to ensure availability. Don’t wait until the last minute to book your photographer. 

Behind the scenes of my newborn photography sessions

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Behind the scenes of my newborn photography sessions

The first few weeks of your baby’s life are precious and going by so fast! Many parents want to capture the moment in a photograph but might be curious or even anxious on what to expect when hiring a professional photographer.

Let me give you an insight into what really happens behind the scenes of a newborn photoshoot.

Also let me share with you a tip: the biggest thing is safety! This should be your and your photographer’s number one priority.   You wouldn’t ask a friend to deliver your baby just because they’ve had one themselves, nor you would ask your sibling to cut your hair because they own a pair of scissors.  It’s important to research how a photographer aims to capture the moment.

Newborn photoshoot is an experience!

One day this amazing new mum booked a session for me to capture images of her brand new baby girl.  I realized this particular mum is also an artist, a painter, and a talented one!  I instantly fell in love with her stardust painting and wanted to make sure that that the images I capture are as artistic. 

I wanted to do a good job!    

During  the session, as I was going through my posing workflow, I noticed that the mum started taking photographs of me taking photographs of her baby. 

And this is when I realized, new mums don’t hire a newborn photographer solely for the images to cherish years to come… it is not just about someone taking good photos of your baby, it is about the entire experience of the photoshoot, and the pure joy and love new mums, and dads, have for their offspring.  

And gosh, that tiny baby can be hypnotising!  

A photo one of the mums took during the session 🙂

Make your session UNIQUE

I’ve started involving mums more in the entire process.

Whether it is to make a choice of an outfit, a matching tieback/hairband or colour of the wrap. 

Before the session, during the booking process, I often ask about any special requirements. Few mums requested to include a family keepsake, nana’s bracelet or even their pet in at least one of the shots. I also had a dad ask to include a hurley or a baby in a sports shirt since his family has strong connections to GAA. 

These little unique add-ons are what makes the image special and once documented, frozen in the photograph, it becomes an endless memory for you and your family to look back on.

Dad requested we incorporate a GAA jersey, present from a family 

What can you expect at the beginning of the session?

Safety safety safety and comfort of the baby is my first priority.  When you arrive at my garden studio, and have settled in, we start by undressing your little bundle – navigating a labyrinth of sleeves, openings and endless buttons! 

As a mum (or mum-to-be) you know that babies feel most comfortable and secure when wrapped. During a newborn session, this also ensures safety throughout and helps them fall asleep faster. 

I will wrap your baby in a quality 4-way stretch fabric, specially selected from established newborn photography suppliers.  Majority of my wraps are sourced from specialized newborn wrap and prop vendors  (I have a serious shopping addiction). 

Dad requested we use his hurley and this is what we came up with! Note: the baby is not really hanging mid air 😀 It is another composite of two photos merged together: 1) baby lying on dark background and 2) dad holding a hurley

If your baby is settled, I will more than likely start with a few awake shots on my posing bed. If the baby is unsettled (or after the awake shots), we will take a feeding break, pick an outfit and/or an additional wrap, after which I will soothe and shush your baby to sleep. To properly start the session we need a sleepy baby; mainly for the following reasons:

1. Sleeping baby is cute and the images just turn out angelic, portray that innocence and freshness of a new little human.  You could just stare at a sleeping baby forever! (Tell me it is not true! J)

 2. Newborns do very well for posing when they are in deep sleep.  There is also a safety aspect to it; while wide awake shots are super sweet, it is not going to be easy to pose a newborn in a prop or on a posing bed if they are awake. 

 

Awake shots – sweetness overload

Baby Sleep-whisperer?

Creating a calm, safe, warm and soothing environment is an essential part of everything I do.

My entire studio is built with you and your baby in mind.

During the session, you will hear my Alexa speaker play ambient music with sounds of the ocean, forest, snowfall or some classic acoustic covers to name a few.  

Next to me you will find a shusher playing sounds of the womb, heartbeat and sometimes a sound of a hairdryer or a vacuum for the tougher babies 😉  I’ve also got a heater going to keep your baby warm. 

To help ensure the baby sleeps like a baby, I recommend keeping your little one awake at least two hours before your scheduled arrival (including car ride). 

If you are comfortable with this, bringing a pacifier/dummy could make things a little easier and speed up the session. But, as a mum, you know your baby and what’s best for them… so there is absolutely no pressure! 

There are many ways to soothe your baby, and the session is scheduled to ensure there is enough time for it to happen naturally.

Safety before the image!

The above image is a composite of two images, skillfully merged together in PhotoShop. 1) baby on a posing pillow and 2) digital background

What's my workflow?

Once your baby is in a deep sleep you’ll see me starting to
snap photos away!

I go through my posing workflow that I selected specifically for your baby (which is mainly dependent on your answers to my questionnaire I asked you to fill in before the session). 

My go to poses are baby in a wrap (peanut pose), lying on the side, tummy up and hands on chin (in the selected outfit).  

I mentioned that the baby should be asleep during the session, but does it mean we need him or her to sleep the entire time?

Absolutely not!

As I work through the poses, you might notice that the baby wakes up briefly or adjusts the way they are lying. This is absolutely normal and part of the process.

Sometimes, babies need a fed top-up or can be soothed back to sleep with their dummy.

All of my sessions are baby led, which means my workflow is dictated by your baby’s needs and cues. 



Finally we move onto parent poses: mum plus baby; dad plus baby; mum plus dad plus baby. Let me know beforehand if you’d like to include siblings in the shots so that we can make a room for them. 

What happens after you've gone home?

And now to, probably, the most exciting part of your newborn session experience: seeing your photos!

After the photoshoot I will carefully edit the shots to create your final gallery, which will be ready in approximately three weeks. 

If you signed my Model Release form I will post a few sneak peeks on my social media while you wait.  Most parents like to share them with the family and friends and why not! If you do, this helps me and my business grow and I can’t thank you enough for that. 

Please note, the images posted on Social Media are low resolution files.  While you can use them as a profile photo, please do not download these copies.  Your gallery will include the high-resolution files, which you can download, share and even print, just be patient.

Once the gallery of your images is ready, I will schedule a viewing appointment with me where you can pick one of my packages, wall art and additional art work. 

You will also receive a link to your gallery where you will be able to download the images. Feel free to share the link with friends and family who want to view your images.

If you’ve chosen package includes products or prints, I will notify you separately once they are ready for collection. Most of my products are custom made by specialised labs in Ireland or Europe. 

Thinking of booking with me?

If you booked or are thinking of booking a newborn session with me to celebrate the new life you’ve created, I have included some more information on what to expect and few tips for you to consider on my website here: https://belladaly.com/newborn-photography/.