I wish I could turn back time! Not to be in the thick of the newborn stage again, oh no, but to have had the foresight to book in a newborn photoshoot with each of my babies. This is a huge regret, which I can only attribute to my self-conscious-new-mum-emotional-state and also the lack of mental capacity in the early days postpartum to find a photographer and just book it in. But fear not, I will not let you make the same mistake! Here are some very useful insights into what is entailed in a newborn photoshoot, should you have any doubts or concerns, with the lovely family photographer and mother extraordinaire, Woustina Cooper.
Why did you decide to change careers and become a photographer?
Before becoming a full time family photographer I was, like many mums, juggling a demanding and high pressure corporate role, family life as well as a photography business on the side. I was stretched in every direction, not really doing anything well. I was photographing mothers and families, preaching the importance of slowing down and soaking up these special moments in motherhood. The reality for me was quite the opposite. Life was chaotic and busy, with hardly any moments to truly practice what I was preaching.
Everything changed when my Dad passed away. He was such a loving and supportive Dad. The experience of losing him really encouraged me to take a good look at myself, reflect on my childhood and think about the kind of mother I wanted to be. My parents were always very present, I wanted to be like that. Something had to give. I decided to spend six months continuing to build my business, while staying in my corporate employment and then take the leap into becoming a full time photographer and working for myself. It has been an incredible experience and I am so glad I did it.
What is your favourite type of photoshoot and what makes it so magic for you?
My Bump to Baby Sessions, particularly with first time parents, are my absolute favourite. These sessions include a Maternity session, followed by a Newborn session a few weeks later. I love having the opportunity to photograph a mama in bloom, and be in awe of her and what her body is creating and then see the family again in the early weeks of welcoming their child. First time parents are often so smitten, so obsessed with every expression or sound their baby makes. It is so beautiful to watch and capture that love.
For pregnant mums thinking of booking a newborn photoshoot but are anxious, can you take us through what is involved in a typical Newborn photoshoot?
I can absolutely understand why mums would be anxious or apprehensive about booking a newborn photoshoot - it can feel like a lot of pressure at such a tender time.
My approach is very relaxed and the flow is lead by the baby. I don't do any elaborate posing or use extravagant props. The focus is on a family's connection and their little newborn love bubble.
The session will start with a chat and us getting to know each other a little better. Once bub is fed and happy, I wrap them up and settle them until they're asleep or calm. Once they're asleep or calm, we work through a range of very simple positions and family combinations. In my sessions, the baby is held for most of the session, that way they're calm and content in mum or dads arms. Towards the end of the session, I will place the baby on my beanbag and get some individual shots, slowly unwrapping them to focus on the cutest little details like fuzzy ears, flakey fingers and my favourite - their little feet!
I pride myself on making the experience relaxing and calm.
To the mothers and expecting mothers who want to book in a photoshoot but are worried about how they might look and feel postpartum, what is your advice?
This is absolutely valid, as a mum of two, I have often struggled with how my body looks after having children, particularly in the early weeks. Coupled with sleep deprivation, engorged breasts and all round pain, it's hard to feel our best.
My advice would be to take some steps to help you feel better on the day of our session, including:
- Treating yourself to a blow dry or getting light make up done for you on the day of the session
- Wear a flowy dress that doesn’t cling to the areas you’re feeling self conscious about
- I have a small client wardrobe with dresses that have been carefully selected to be flattering and comfortable for new mums. If you go with a photographer that has a client wardrobe, definitely utilise it!
- Take a deep breath and remind yourself that you grew and birthed a human. You and your body are incredible.
When is the best time to book in a newborn photoshoot and how far in advance should you book in?
I recommend booking in your newborn photoshoot when you are in your second trimester, this will give you the best chance at securing a booking with a photographer whose style you love.
I try to photograph my newborn clients when they are between 5 and 14 days old. The sleepier they are, the smoother the session tends to be and it’s also usually before any baby acne sets in.
My newborn sessions take place in the mornings, around 10am. Generally speaking, babies tend to be more settled in the morning than the afternoon.
If you have a nervous or reluctant family member in a photoshoot (adult or child!), what are your best tips to help them overcome this for the sake of producing beautiful family photos?
The most important consideration is finding a photographer whose style you love, but also whose vibe you love and connect with.
If you book someone whose personality and values align with yours, there’s a good chance you’re all going to get along perfectly and the session will flow perfectly.
If someone is feeling particularly apprehensive about the session, let your photographer know. This is really important information to have on hand so we can give a little extra attention or sensitivity to your family member.
At the end of the day, we want this to be a positive, relaxing and fun experience. As photographers, we want a session more to be a gallery of pretty pictures. We want you to use the experience to create memories, to be present and truly enjoy each other's company and be left with a beautiful images that authentically capture your family.
Woustina is a Sydney based Motherhood and Family Photographer. You can book in with Woustina via her website, and see her photography style and follow her on Instagram here.
