1. Nursing mum’s

It is best to avoid spicy foods or any foods/drinks that may upset babies tummy as it could result in lots of tears and little sleep during the session.

2. Awake time

If possible, try to keep baby awake in the hours leading up to your session. Useful tips for keeping baby awake are to talk and play with them, or even give them a bath. So when they arrive to the studio they will be ready for a long nap.

3. Bring a dummy!

This is very important. It works wonders when baby is a little unsettled and just needs that extra something to chill them out. This could be the difference in getting certain shots.

4. Feeding

If your drive to the studio isn’t too long, give baby a nice big feed so their tummy is nice and full. But if your journey is lengthy give the little one a feed when you arrive. Full tummy = sleepy baby!

5. Changing & feeding bag

Make sure you have enough packed in the changing bag for feeds and changes for over 3 hours – it’s better to be over prepared than under prepared. If formula feeding, bring enough for two extra feeds just in case. In the studio I have a Tommee Tippee prep machine which you can use.

6. Baby’s clothing

Bring baby in a button up or zip up sleeper/baby-grow. Preferably loose fitting! Too many layers could startle them and waken them. If you would like, bring an outfit along to dress the little one after the session.

7. Family & sibling photos

If you are wanting sibling and/or family photos, I will take these photos at the end of the session. If you have other children please arrange for them to arrive towards the end of the session, as 3 hours can become boring for a little one! If it works better with your other children’s schedules to take these photos at the beginning of the session let me know so I can be prepared for this. Please come prepared for family photos during your session – this is a great time to get some amazing family photos together! Bring an additional outfit incase of any accidents. For tips on what to wear, scroll down the page.

8. Studio temperature

The studio will be kept warm so baby feels comfortable and sleepy (just like the womb). You may want to dress in layers so you can stay comfortable during the session.

9. Safety first

Your baby’s safety is my top priority. Some poses may be composites (created with editing) or will involve assistance/hands on your baby. Please trust that your baby will never be placed in an unsafe position.

10. Time expectations

Normal newborn sessions can take up to 3 hours depending on baby’s mood. Don’t worry if baby needs lots of breaks for feeding or soothing. This is totally normal and built into the session flow.

11. Sibling prep tips

If siblings are joining, it can help to talk to them beforehand about how exciting it will be to have photos taken. Bringing along a favourite toy, snack, or quiet activity for them can help keep them happy and entertained when they’re not in photos.

12. Parent wardrobe guidance

Neutral colours (whites, creams, greys, soft pastels) photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your baby. Avoid large logos or busy patterns. Simple, timeless outfits always look best.

13. After your session

You will be invited back to the studio to view your gallery of images. These appointments take 60 – 90 minutes. I can bring you back in that same day or schedule your viewing for another day. We will book this in at the end of your session.

14. Share your experience!

Feel free to share your experience during your newborn session with all your friends and family! Follow and tag me on your social media accounts.
Facebook: ‘Amie McAllister Photography’.
Instagram: @amiemcallisterphotography

15. Relax

Newborn sessions can be lengthy, bring a book/ magazine or anything you would like to help you relax, or even some food if you wish! I have tea, coffee, hot chocolate and water which you can help yourself to, along with a few cheeky biscuits!

16. Enjoy yourself

Put your feet up (take your shoes off if you wish) and relax! I want you to enjoy this experience as much as I enjoy taking photos. Plus babies can sense stress so if you are relaxed, baby too is relaxed!

Helpful directions

Passing through Carryduff
At the roundabout in Carryduff take the exit onto the A7/Saintfield Road. Follow this road for 2.6 miles. On this round you will pass Millennium Primary School on your left, half a mile from here round this corner you will need to take the left exit onto the Ballyknockan Road, follow this road for 1.6 miles – look out junction on the right, there is a small triangle of grass on the road at this junction. Take this exit! Follow this road up and over the hill (around half a mile). You will see two grey pillars on your left, turn left here and you will have reached 74A! Follow the driveway round to find a parking space beside the studio.

Passing through Saintfield
Once you reach the Ballygowan road after passing through Saintfield, keep on this road for around 1.2 miles. You will come across a road on the left called the Ballycloughan Road, take this exit! It is not too far after the Saintfield Nursery (garden) centre. Follow this road for around half a mile, 74A will be located on your right. Look out for the two grey pillars.

Passing through Ballygowan
Once you reach the roundabout, take the exit towards Saintfield (the Garage will be on your left)
Take the second right after the roundabout onto the Ravara Road – this road is not too far after entering the 40mph zone.
Continue on this road
You will pass through into the 60mph zone (keep going, you’re on the right track!)
Continue on this road until you approach a road on your left with a small triangle of grass on the road. Take this exit!
Follow this road up and over the hill (around half a mile). You will see two grey pillars on your left, turn left here and you will have reached 74A! Follow the driveway round to find a parking space beside the studio.

Phone number
07870825816

Where to Park
My car will stand out to anyone who arrives at my studio! Please park beside my car as other parking areas are residential.

Baby won’t need an outfit for family photos, I usually photograph your newborn in your arms with either a wrap on or nothing.

coordinate your clothes

You don’t all need to wear the same colour if you do not want to. It is great to have a mix of colours that work well with each other or to have different shades of the same colour. Lay each family members clothes out on bed so you can see if it works well together or not.

Look at the decor in your home

These photos will be hanging in your home,so it’s a great idea to tie them into your home colour scheme.

What colours work well for photos?

White, cream, black or dark colours are typically known for classic clothing colours for portraits which provide a timeless look to your images.

Things to avoid!

Keep away from bright colours, patterns, cartoon characters and logos or branded clothing – these are often distracting in photos. Keep away from bright colours, patterns, cartoon characters and logos or branded clothing – these are often distracting in photos.