Seagull Photography: Bumps & Babies

Growing Bump !

Our latest New babies got me thinking about the whole baby photography thing. Like
many parents I have hundreds of photo's of my children as babies, mostly taken
on basic film camera, back in the day when you had no idea how your images
would turn out and there was little chance of improving an image or editing
slobber, milk spots etc..

I have to say now these photo's even the blurry ones are often the best, they are the
permanent memory of your child, something to take you back to those times when
you child was cute, funny, crying....

However Studio baby photography has a whole different look feel about it, also the
expectation of every new parent (to be) is different. I always encourage
parents to express their own ideas for their photo session, some are happy to
just go with the flow, some want more structure or direction to the session
either way like home photographs I want my clients photo's to be a lasting
memory, show something of their personality and tell the story of their journey
as parents.

BUMPS !

All pregnant women are beautiful, it is a wonderful experience. Having a your bump
photographed is not only a record of your growing bump but a future reminder!
Before we even pick up the camera I like to talk through the options \ ideas
for your bump photo. There are lots of great ideas out there however it is your
body \ bump and you have to be comfortable with being photographed. It is a
great boost for your self esteem too ! Often when I have shown my clients their
bump photo's they are thrilled and realise just how fantastic they look.

Be confident in expressing your own idea's for your bump shoot, talk it through
with your photographer, be brave and try a few different idea's. Ask for arty,
natural, side light etc.. you will get so much more from it. Do be prepared for
somethings not to work, often I set something up only to find it didn't look
how I expected it too. Relax enjoy your session ! The more comfortable you feel
with your photography the more relaxed you will be. Don't forget your partner,
often men feel uncertain about what to expect on a bump \ baby shoot so make
sure they have an input too...

Babies !

Again expectations of a studio photography of babies varies. As I have said, work
with your photographer, talk through any ideas and most of all enjoy your time
in the studio. Remember though that if you are planning a particular shot:

Some time is needed to position, adjust light & backgrounds and test shoot for these
shots. Careful planning will help keep things relaxed( however I am quite
spontaneous and if something comes to mind I will ask \ try it out) So be
prepared !! it is possible to arrange a couple of sessions just to do one or
two well planned shots.

A babies first year is so important, they change so quick. It's always
great to see how much a baby has changed and developed, I am lucky that each
time i photograph a baby over the first year I see how they have changed
physically and how there personality is developing. even small babies express
emotions which soon become part of their unique personalities. I personally
think a photography session should reflect these emotions. so whether grinning
or frowning , laughing or crying all this is part of the story of your babies
first year of life.