Seagull Photography: Great Expectations!

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.