The Little Guide to Beautiful Memories
Everything you need to know before your maternity, newborn or family photography session.
Welcome
Firstly, thank you.
It truly means the world that you’ve chosen me to capture this chapter of your family’s story.
Whether you’re expecting your first baby, welcoming a newborn, celebrating a growing family or simply wanting to freeze this season of life before it changes, I can’t wait to create something beautiful with you.
My sessions are relaxed, child-led and completely focused on genuine connection. There are no stiff poses or forced smiles here—just real moments, honest emotions and timeless photographs you’ll treasure for years to come.
This guide contains everything you need to know before your session, from choosing what to wear to preparing little ones, so when the day arrives, all you need to do is enjoy it.
My Approach
Photography isn’t about perfection
It’s about preserving the little things that disappear far too quickly. The way your toddler reaches for your hand. The sleepy weight of your newborn on your shoulder. The quiet anticipation before your baby arrives. Rather than asking you to constantly look at the camera, I’ll gently guide you through natural prompts and activities that encourage genuine connection. My aim is for your gallery to feel like memories, not poses.
What to Expect
A calm, enjoyable experience from beginning to end
Whether your little one wants to run, cuddle, explore or simply be carried, that’s exactly what we’ll embrace. There is no pressure to perform, smile on cue or sit perfectly still.
I’ll guide you every step of the way, so you’ll never be left wondering what to do with your hands or where to stand. Before long, the camera fades into the background and all that’s left is quality time with the people you love most.
Why It Matters
Photographs become more valuable with every passing year
The days may feel long, but childhood passes in the blink of an eye. One day the cuddles become rarer, the tiny hands grow bigger, and the bedtime stories come to an end.
My hope is that when you look back at your gallery years from now, you won’t just remember how everything looked—you’ll remember how it felt. Those ordinary, fleeting moments are the ones that become priceless.
FAQ
What if my child doesn’t cooperate?
Please don’t worry! Children don’t need to smile, sit still or even look at the camera. My sessions are completely child-led, giving little ones the freedom to explore, play and simply be themselves. Some of the most beautiful photographs happen in these wonderfully unplanned moments.
What happens if it rains?
If the weather isn’t suitable for your outdoor session, we’ll simply reschedule to the next available date. I always keep a close eye on the forecast and will be in touch if we need to make any changes.
Can we bring our dog?
Of course! Dogs are part of the family too and are always welcome at outdoor sessions. Please just let me know beforehand so we can choose a suitable location.
What if my baby needs feeding or changing?
That’s completely expected. Newborn sessions are always baby-led, with plenty of time for feeds, cuddles and nappy changes. There is never any rush.
Maternity Sessions
Maternity sessions celebrate the quiet excitement before everything changes.
We’ll take our time, embrace beautiful light and create timeless images that celebrate both you and the incredible journey you’re on. Partners and older siblings are always welcome, helping to tell the story of your growing family.
Newborn Sessions
Newborn sessions are calm, gentle and completely baby-led.
There is never any rush. We allow plenty of time for feeding, cuddles, changing and settling, creating a relaxed experience where everyone feels comfortable.
The focus is always on connection rather than complicated posing.
Family Sessions
Family sessions are exactly that—a chance to simply spend time together.
We’ll explore, cuddle, play games, read stories, collect flowers, chase bubbles or simply walk together.
Children don’t need to perform.
The happiest, most meaningful photographs usually happen in between everything else.
A Little Reminder
Please don’t spend your session worrying about whether your children are smiling, looking at the camera or sitting still. Years from now, those won’t be the moments you’ll remember. You’ll remember the cuddles. The giggles. The tiny hands wrapped around your finger. The way they looked at you. That’s exactly what we’re going to preserve.
Mini Sessions
Mini sessions may be shorter, but they’re filled with just as much magic.
Designed around beautiful seasonal settings, they’re perfect for updating family photographs while keeping the experience relaxed and enjoyable for little ones.
Choosing What to Wear
Your clothing plays a huge part in creating timeless photographs. Choose outfits that feel comfortable, natural and coordinated rather than matching exactly. Soft neutral colours photograph beautifully and allow the focus to stay on your family rather than your clothes. Think creams, oat, beige, soft white, sage green, dusty blue, olive, rust, warm browns and muted blush tones. Natural fabrics such as linen, cotton and knitwear add beautiful texture and movement. Try to avoid large logos, bold patterns, fluorescent colours and character clothing where possible.
The most important thing?
Wear something that feels like you.
Preparing for Your Session
There’s very little you need to do.
Make sure everyone has had something to eat beforehand, bring plenty of water, wipes and any comfort items your little one loves.
Please don’t worry if your toddler refuses to cooperate or your baby needs feeding.
That’s completely normal.
Leave the pressure at home and trust me to guide the session naturally.
During Your Session
Your only job is to enjoy your family.
Talk to one another.
Laugh together.
Cuddle often.
Read stories.
Dance.
Play.
The more you focus on each other rather than the camera, the more natural your photographs will feel.
If Things Don’t Go to Plan
Children don’t need to smile.
Babies don’t need to sleep.
Toddlers don’t need to sit still.
Some of the most treasured photographs come from the wonderfully unpredictable moments.
Please don’t apologise if little ones are shy, energetic or emotional.
I’ve photographed enough families to know that every child is different, and I promise we’ll create beautiful memories regardless.
After Your Session
After your session, I’ll carefully hand-edit each image in my signature style before presenting them in a beautiful online gallery.
From there you’ll be able to download your included images, purchase additional photographs if you wish, and order professional prints and artwork designed to last for generations.
FAQ
How long will our session last?
Every session is different.
* Mini Sessions: Around 20 minutes
* Family Sessions: Approximately 45–60 minutes
* Maternity Sessions: Around 45–60 minutes
* Newborn Sessions: Up to 2 hours, allowing plenty of time for your baby
When will we receive our photographs?
Your beautifully hand-edited gallery will be ready within 2–3 weeks of your session (or sooner where possible). I’ll send you a private online gallery where you can view, download and choose your favourites.
Can we purchase additional images?
Yes! If you fall in love with more photographs than are included in your package, you’ll have the option to purchase additional digital images, gallery upgrades and professional prints directly from your online gallery.
Do you help us pose?
Absolutely. You don’t need to worry about knowing what to do! I’ll gently guide you throughout your session with natural prompts and simple direction, while leaving plenty of room for genuine interaction and connection.
Testimonials
Tabitha made me and my family feel so at ease, the location she chose was beautiful, her prices for what you receive are amazing and her eye for detail and the photographs we received are beyond what I imagined.
Laura
We had the absolute best experience with Tabitha for our family photos! From the very start, she makes you feel so comfortable and confident. On top of that, she was amazing with my girls, keeping them laughing and at ease the entire time.
Tom & Lauren
From the minute we arrived for the session she made us feel comfortable and welcome. I loved the ‘no pressure’ environment that Tabitha created and how she worked around our toddler. The results from the session were outstanding - pure perfection!