Newborn & Sibling Photographer - Essex & London
Let me start off this blog by being super honest. Newborn and sibling photos can be very challenging. Especially with those siblings aged two years and under! When a new member of the family arrives you really don’t know how the older siblings are going to respond. Sometimes they don’t want to be anywhere near their new baby brother or sister, some may be jealous of the attention the new baby is getting, or some may just simply be uninterested.
At the start of any newborn session with a sibling I start by warning parents that the sibling photos may not be easy. If you have already had a newborn photoshoot for your first born, then this experience is likely to be a little different. Like with newborns, it is important to also follow the older siblings needs and moods. I adapt my session to their needs as well as the needs of the newborns. If they need a break this is fine, the last thing we want to do is force a child to do something they don’t want to do, as this can cause one of those tantrums that there is no coming back from!
Ideally I like to start the session with sibling photos, so that once they are done one parent can take them out of the studio if they are getting bored or impatient (which is totally normal!) However, not every sibling session will go to plan! If they are not interested in having their photos done straight away, this is fine. There are plenty of opportunities throughout the session where we can get sibling photos done!
What should you bring with you?
I recommend bringing some snacks, and some BRIBES! Bribes are always encouraged, and perhaps even required in the studio during those challenging moments! However, it's usually best not to mention the bribes until we absolutely need them! Bringing some bits to keep them entertained is normally a good idea, I suggest something like colouring books/ puzzles etc. Now I know iPads and phones are a godsend when it comes to keeping a child calm and quiet. But I highly recommend that you do not give your child a phone or iPad before we have got their photos. As many of you parents will know, once they get engrossed in watching youtube videos, there is no taking that tablet away without a major meltdown!
Although sibling photos can be challenging, it is very rare that I am unable to get them. I know how important these photos are to parents, so I will try everything in my power to get that perfect shot for you. Even if that means bringing them back another day! Yes the session will likely be challenging, but parents please try not to stress. After all, children tend to pick up on this. Stay calm and trust that I will do everything I can :)
Laying Down / Shot From Above
An all round favourite and go-to with all sibling photoshoots is big brother/sister laying facing up. I love this pose because they can get all cosy and cheek to cheek. It is also one of the easier positions for a toddler trying to hold baby safely. Of course, not all toddlers will be happy laying on their back for more than 2 seconds, this is okay! There are other options.
2. Bean Bag Poses
If they're not a fan of laying on their back, some may prefer to just lean in and interact with their sibling.
3. Backlit
This pose is easier achieved with older siblings who are strong enough to hold baby safely.
The Sibling Froggy
I saved this one till last for a reason - it’s the ultimate and most challenging of sibling photos. This image is only achievable when both newborn and sibling are on their A-game. I will only attempt this image with older siblings who are calm and good with direction. This image is a composite image meaning that I take multiple images and use photoshop wizardry to edit them together. Baby is held at all times and never left in the froggy position unsupported.
If you would like to see the different newborn and family poses I offer. Please follow the links below :)