Simplicity newborn package with me, 10 years experienced baby photographer in Norwich

Those first few weeks, whether you are a first time parent or you have done it all before… No one prepares you for the whirlwind of emotions, the tiredness, the overwhelm of being responsible for such a tiny person.

Yet, it is undoubtedly, for most, a magic like no other.

The smell of a newborn baby head, those first little raises of the lips as they express their needs… the wrinkles in their feet… while those details invariably pass by in the blink of an eye my simplicity package aims to capture those moments for a lifetime. I can’t capture the smells, but I can capture those emotions and every small detail you won’t want to forget.

My simplicity newborn package has become my most popular

This photography package is aimed at babies from 5 days old to 8 weeks old and the session lasts an hour; allowing parents the relief of not worrying about a longer time in the studio, but equally, there’s no pressure if we have to spend some time making sure everyone is relaxed and importantly enjoying their time with me. The package includes all edited images approx 40 images to print as you wish.  Family and sibling images are always encouraged and this isn’t an add-on its included in the package at no extra cost. I’m a firm believer in the whole family being involved.

“Jess was absolutely fantastic. Loved every minute of our photo session today. She made us all feel very relaxed. She is amazing at how she works with newborns and toddlers and how she gets the photos just right. I would highly recommend Jess. 10 out of 10” 

Relaxed approach and baby-led

My aim, always, is to ensure your experience of a newborn photography session is enjoyable. From my home photography studio in beautiful Norwich, I have created a little oasis of calm, equipped with everything you need to not only get your family photos but to deal with anything that happens within your allotted time – from absolutely normal baby melt downs or nappy explosions (I am well stocked with nappies!) As a mum myself, I’ve been there, done that and nothing embarrasses me or is too much for me to support you with!

A little bit about me (after all, you need to trust me with you and your precious baby)

I’m Jess, a long time established baby and newborn photographer in Norwich. My goal is to capture the story of your family – in fact you can read lots of nice things families have said about me in the past HERE.

My simplicity newborn packages are always popular, for which I am very grateful and I think it’s because I ensure the time length doesn’t feel overwhelming, it’s because I keep everything simple and most importantly, everything I do is led by you and your baby. Examples of my images can be found here.

My motto? Pure, simple, timeless.

Trained and a bit of baby whisperer

I’m trained to safely pose babies, investing lots of time and money to ensure I was confident in doing things correctly. Now I have over 10 years of experience working with babies and children,

I’m intuitive enough to know when to stop and encourage some cuddles and we don’t rely on babies being ‘good’. What I mean by this is that every moment is good, and I photograph it all – awake, asleep, sneezes, bottom lip pouts etc!

I encourage everyone to take part in the session (of course those who want to participate) and I’ll lead you, so no need to be camera shy! The focus is always those wonderful cuddles rather than cheesy smiles at the camera – I’d rather focus on snuggles and the affection that naturally radiates off a family.

Simplicity is implied and is true, no-frills, huge props, in my studio… a simple white baby vest is enough, this is about comfort and no baby (in my opinion) will ever be more gorgeous than when it is just them and maybe a neutral blanket. If you have a sentimental teddy or keepsake, then of course bring them along and we will incorporate them.

I always encourage anyone looking to book a natural baby shoot to get in touch first and ask all the questions you need to ensure I’m the right person for you!

To book your photography shoot, please email me via my contact form.

If you’re looking for a Newborn, Maternity, Cake Smash or Family Photographer.

Then find out more by clicking the button below or visiting my Instagram account to see some examples of recent work.

Love, Jess x

Classic newborn shoot or a Simplicity newborn shoot? What is the difference?

The Classic newborn shoot;

The Classic Newborn sessions are best captured in the first 5-14 days, they can be done up to 3 weeks old. In the early days, babies are still in that gorgeous squishy phase – all curly and sleepy from being in the womb.

This is also when they are most likely to sleep for some of the shoot, and be content whilst being gently moved into positions, such as laying on their tummies allowing me to tuck their hands under their heads. (Older babies are more alert and love to stretch out and this is why I created my Simplicity newborn package so that parents do not feel they have to miss out on having a shoot if their baby is that bit older)

The classic newborn session usually lasts around 1.5 –  2 hours, but always on the baby’s timescale.

Young babies feed on demand and this is why the longer shoot is great for babies under 3 weeks old. I never want to rush through, and part of the session is feeding, winding, and nappy changes.

This is when we pause for a break, snacks etc. If siblings are present and happy for me to take some images, I will encourage them to have some on their own too.

We do try and get some sleepy curled up images in the longer shoot. Sometimes babies just won’t sleep.

But I always emphasize, the way I work means your baby will be photographed awake, asleep, yawning, sneezing – it’s totally baby-led and about capturing them just as they are.

This package is best for those who wish to photograph their baby soon after birth and want more studio time and images to choose from. 

The Simplicity package

The Simplicity package – is a shorter simpler shoot. The shoot is up to 45 – 60 minutes of studio time instead of the classic longer shoot.

It is perfect for older babies up to 8 weeks (prem babies up to 12 weeks) but also for anyone who wants a shorter shoot.

We do not spend time getting the baby asleep, but there is always time for feeding and nappy changing. In this shoot, we often take more awake and wrapped images, it also gives families time to be in some photos and for me to photograph babies on their own.

If your baby is older and therefore more alert this is the package for you.

Often parents book this package if they are keen to have their newborn baby photographed whilst small but are happy with the baby being awake and not as posed or asleep . As this is a shorter shoot, there is less variety of images and backdrop changes but I always ensure we get your baby’s little details such baby toes, hands, button noses etc photographed.

This package is great for those who have older babies,  want a shorter session (great for those with toddlers ) , or families who want to photograph their new baby but dont require many images or poses.

Have school-age children?

I work weekends but they get booked quite a bit ahead. But I do offer to split the shoot into two sections. The baby during the day and sibling images can be taken after school,  or at 9 am so that you can then get them to school. The feedback has been great.

“I loved having the family/ girls pictures split. As I got to have a relaxed shoot with just me and Jack. Then when the girls then had their’s it was very quick to get there photos done . It was perfect !! 

Thank you again” Gina, Norwich 

I hope this helps you decide the difference between my Classic newborn shoot & the Simplicity newborn shoot

What does a newborn studio look like?

Have a peek at my home newborn studio. It is designed to be a welcoming and soothing sanctuary which is perfect for babies and small families.

Calm

The studio is especially set up to be calm, comfortable and convenient for my families. I have many years of photographing babies and young children so it is important to me that it is a rewarding experience for you all.

Props

I have minimal props as I want the focus to be on your beautiful bump or newborn baby. I don’t want to distract from your baby and I like the images to be neutral and pure, but I do have a selection of organic and super soft rompers, wraps and blankets. I also have a choice of maternity outfits that include chunky cardigans, vest tops and lace garments.

As the studio is quite small, it’s perfect for bumps, newborns, babies, and cake smashes! After that, for older children and on the go toddlers I would recommend outdoor shoots. The freedom of an outdoor shoot means we get lots of natural smiles. At the moment outdoor shoots are on hold.

Thanks for taking a peek at the studio!

To book your newborn shoot contact me here for an informal chat.

Jess Wilkins Baby Photographer’s Guide to Photographing Your Newborn at home 2020

Jess Wilkins Baby Photographer’s Guide to Photographing Your Newborn at home

Photographing Your Newborn at home

I’m so sad that during these times I’m unable to photograph beautiful new babies but, I thought long and hard about how I can help new parents capture those moments from afar; with whatever camera and props you have available! As much as I love having families in my Norwich studio, I can’t bear the thought of  families missing out when there are some simple ways to create a good photo from home.

These moments are fleeting so don’t think you can’t treasure them always because of the crisis we currently find ourselves in. You don’t need a DSLR, a simple smartphone camera can do a brilliant trick so, find below a series of tips, poses and ideas on how to set up some shots.

Don’t forget to share them with me on Instagram @jess_wilkins_photography – it will make my day to see how you are being creative with your at home shoots! As a baby photographer, I am trained to pose babies, please don’t attempt to re-create what you see on my website (and others) at home and always put baby safety first.

Safety – this is one of the most important points.

The safety and comfort of your baby is more important than any photo. Please do not attempt any poses that you see newborn photographers do. We are trained in newborn safety and posing, remember this is about what you can do at home, not how to recreate a studio perfect image.

Pets and siblings make for wonderful baby photography but should never be photographed without another adult right there to keep an eye (and hand!) on the baby. 

It may seem obvious but if using a large camera and when you are taking photos above baby, always wear the camera strap around your neck.

Listen for baby’s cues. Your little one may start to tell you they have had enough. Pace yourself, you just had a baby and will need rest! If you need to break it up over a few days then do so.

Get ready – how to set the room and mood:

First off, know that your photos are not going to look the same as professional photos, and that’s ok! You are capturing some precious memories, and that is all that matters. Babies are energy-based and will pick up on your anxiety and frustration, so just relax and go with the flow. If it doesn’t go to plan, take a break and try later.

Turn up the thermostat so the room is warm, then give your baby a good feed, and be sure to burp them, so they are happy and sleepy! (But remember that awake baby images are beautiful too – the first smile, those scrunched up faces and altogether strange shapes they make).

Your baby will probably poop or pee if you take photos without a nappy on, so have supplies ready for quick clean ups – this is a common occurrence in the studio so don’t think this is just happening to you – I highly recommend Dr Beckamsn cleaning products! 

I find white noise can really soothe a newborn during a shoot so that’s another option to create a calm room.

Some initial starting tips

• Spread a blanket, swaddle wrap, or sheet on the floor near a window. (neutral works well, greys whites and patterns such as arrows or polka dots)
• Position the baby with light coming from the side or top of the baby’s head.
• Take photos looking straight down – do not take photos up baby’s nose.

Equipment

Don’t worry if you don’t have a DSLR, any smart phones will work, first up clean your lens and secondly, (if you have it) try putting your phone on portrait mode to get some deep focus with a yummy blur. I tend to avoid props but you may want some lovely snuggly blankets/a sheepskin and a favourite teddy to nestle your baby with.

What to wear

To really capture your newborn I always recommend having the family wear comfortable, simple, neutral-coloured clothing. Stay away from logos, words, and characters on shirts, and neon colours. It can really help to have some colour coordination too… you can see some family shots HERE for inspiration.

Newborns photograph best in a simple white onesie – because really is there anything better?

You can add a little hat or headband for variety (but not one so big it takes the focus away from the baby!)

Lighting and position

Any photographer will tell you the trick to a good photo is the lighting, at home you can achieve great results with the following:

• Try to take your photos in the rooms that get the best gentle window light (not direct sunlight). 
• North/south facing windows are great! If there’s enough window light, turn off your overhead lights.

• When positioning the baby close to the window, make sure the light is coming from the side or towards the top of the baby’s head – but remember not direct sunlight on your baby.

Editing

It’s always great to take lots of images so you can choose the best of the best. VSCO app is a great editing tool that you can use instantly as is Lightbox. With a little cropping, brightening and sharpening you can really enhance your already beautiful pictures.

You can get into super detail and purchase a pre-set package if there’s a certain ‘style’ you want to recreate.

Photo Check List and suggestions:

Sibling Images

• Spread a comfy blanket or rug close to a window. Tuck some rolled up

receiving blankets underneath to create a place for siblings to rest their heads.

• Have siblings lie down with the top of their head angled towards the window.
• Place wrapped baby right up close to sibling, with baby’s head

supported by sibling’s arm/s.

• Ask the sibling to place their other arm on the baby’s tummy or somehow connect.
• Take your photo standing over them, looking straight down.

Parent and Baby images

• Place the parent sitting or standing so window light comes from the side.
• Try to always angle the top of the baby’s head towards the window.
• Hold baby in different ways: lying in arms, held face to face, up on

shoulder, facing out, etc.

• For each position, take photos from different angles – straight on, from

side, from behind over parent’s shoulder, etc.

Whole Family Images

• Position your family members with window light coming from the

side – on a couch, or even on the floor of the nursery.Make sure you

leave a spot for you to sit or stand

• Use a tripod if you have one, or simply set up your camera/phone

against something sturdy, getting the whole family in the frame.

• Activate the timer (10 seconds), and run to get into your assigned

position with your family. Smile!

Capturing the details

• Lie the baby down on a simple white or neutral coloured blanket or

sheet, close to a window.

• Focus on just one body part at time, and make the whole photo

just about that body part.

• Take photos of your baby’s hands and fingers, feet and toes, nose,

lips, belly button, and wisps of hair. Most importantly don’t forget the little rolls and

flaky skin.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you want any further help or information. For anyone expecting later in the year I will be offering vouchers for newborn shoots. 

For your own downable guide to photographing your newborn at home please click here for the free guide. 

The dangers of an untrained newborn photographer -the importance of looking for a trained newborn photographer 2019

Becoming a photographer is a journey and mine started in Norwich 7 years ago (now 12 years ago 2024), from the start I knew I wanted to be a highly trained newborn photographer. Through my own pregnancies I discovered newborn photography was one of my callings .  I decided early on that I would be investing money to ensure that not only did I become highly skilled in my field, but also that I became the safest.

Newborn photography calls for new parents to put their trust in you and many aren’t even aware that this field is sadly not regulated; meaning photographers are posing babies with little, or even no training.

I have invested £1,000s into my training, working with a mentor, and ensuring I did hands on training. Not only to ensure that my posing was safe and gentle, but also to ensure I could soothe and settle a baby coming into a new environment. Whilst of course I had my own two babies at the start of my career. It was important I was able to have the skills to recognise cues of an unsettled newborn from any family and not just my own.

Doesn’t it look easy!?

Newborns all curled up, fast asleep, relaxed and calm, it looks like it’s a doddle, but it’s not! The gentle moulding of a baby into a pose takes patience and care (even the most relaxed styles) There are lots of ‘standard’ poses and many are what the industry call ‘composites’

I don’t offer the complex composites, that’s just not my style. My style is simple and relaxed, so everyone gets the most natural of shoots but if you do like the style then its important you find out about the photographers training to ensure the safest of shoots for your little one.

What is a composite pose?

A composite pose is one that requires a lot of manoeuvring and more than one image merged to create one single image. For example, the ‘froggy’ pose (you can Google this) not only does it take an experienced photographer, but also involves the parents. The photographer will ask a parent to hold the baby’s head first, then the baby arms and after in edit, will merge the two images together.

There is a fear from myself and many others that new photographers will attempt this without the necessary training, so always make sure you ask the questions I have provided below when you are choosing a photographer.

What poses do I offer?

I never promise a pose, the two below are as ‘posed’ as I get.  I only do these if the baby easily moves into it. I focus on more natural poses and stretches.

Most posing requires some training and hands on experience because the strength these little babies come out with is amazing. My main rule of thumb is I never leave a baby when on the bean bag, they can push themselves forward, some almost roll. (See my examples below)

Head on hands – most babies can gently go into this pose, with experience and being aware of their cues it ensures they are happy and relaxed.  If a baby has a good set of cheeks, they can rest their heads like they would on your chest. Awake babies are to alert & moving for this to be safe.

Tummy / bum up pose – another pose that looks quite simple and with gentle manoeuvring it is. However, going in with no training you could easily lay baby on their arm and cause distress which is the last thing any new parent needs when they are meant to be enjoying their time with you.

Who is policing newborn photography?
While not regulated, organisations like the Baby and Newborn Photography Association BANPAS  are helping to spread the word to parents and I would always encourage you to do and ask the following:

• Research the photographer, would you be comfortable with your baby in their signature poses?
• Do you believe your baby would be comfy?
• Would you be happy to work with them?
• Have they any evidence of insurance and training?
• Can you see what their studio looks like?
• Get in touch and discuss any concerns

I am all for new people embarking on this as career, it’s an amazing and fulfilling job, however, the industry must be respected by newcomers and it’s important for them to build up skills for posing babies and making parents aware of their training.

See my work

You can see all of my background infomation here . I am a trained newborn photographer and welcome anyone thinking of booking with me to check out my gallery and to contact me.

Jess x