As a child photographer people often ask me when the perfect time is to have portrait shots of their children taken and the answer is of course every and any time is the perfect time.  As a mother of three I know first-hand how babies and children develop constantly. 

If you’re thinking of investing in having your child or children photographed here are some of the milestone moments in children’s lives that you may want to capture with beautiful timeless images. 

Maternity photography

Celebrating your pregnancy by investing in a pregnancy photography photoshoot is always a good idea.  Think how lovely it will be for your child to look back and see just how excited you all were at their imminent arrival.  I am very experienced in photographing pregnant women and can guide through every step of the photoshoot so that you don’t feel uncomfortable and will in fact enjoy the experience and be thrilled with the results. 

Maternity photography takes place around 26-36 weeks into your pregnancy and is often followed up with a new-born photoshoot a few weeks later.

Newborn photography

New-borns are best photographed between 4 and 14 days old as this is the time when they are most sleepy and comfortable curling into those beautiful poses.  I have a ton of props and creative ideas for newborn photography but always welcome input from you.  I always book out a few hours in my studio for newborn photography as baby dictates the timescale as the photoshoot always fits in around cuddles and feeds which of course always take priority.   

Sitter baby photography

It’s amazing to capture the moment your baby can first sit up.  This after all, is the first opportunity for an independent portrait image.  Sitter baby photography is best taken between 6 and 10 months old when baby is sitting unaided but not quite on the move.  Sitter baby photographs make perfect presents for doting grandparents.

1st Birthday photography

In our lives most of us will enjoy many birthdays but none are as special as the first.  We can have some fun with props or we can keep in simple.  Many of my clients use my images in thank you cards or as updates to family who live further away and don’t get to see baby as often as they would like. 

Annual Portrait photography

An annual portrait is fun and a great way of tracing a child’s development.  You can choose the same location each time or mix it up and have some fun with it by choosing different times of year and locations to take the portrait.  An outdoor portrait image enjoying nature in Spring or Autumn.   A festive shot that could make the perfect Christmas or thank you card or an image taken of your child pursuing their favourite activity. 

Family photo sessions

It can be tempting for parents to stay the other side of the lense.  Many of us are self-conscious about having our photographs taken and overly critical of how we look in photos.  But it’s important that you do create keepsakes of the whole family.  When your child is grown, they will want to look back at their childhood memories and see images of you with them.  Especially images of you and them having fun and enjoying one another’s company. 

Family sessions can take place in my warm, welcoming and beautifully lit studio.  I have a number of props, toys and ideas to make photoshoots fun.  Or you may choose to have an outdoor photoshoot at a location that has special meaning to you as a family.  Natural unposed images of a family day out always creates the perfect look. 

However, and whenever you choose to capture the milestones in your children’s lives just make sure you do it. Childhoods pass by in a flash so it’s a good idea to invest in good photography so that you can treasure those memories and when the time comes, pass them onto your children to treasure as well.

If you’re considering investing in having your child or children photographed why not get in touch.  I’d love to meet you and your family and talk about how I can capture the essence of you all in beautiful timeless images.

Charlene