Sitter Photography by Victoria Sturdy | Cambridge Cambridgeshire | Newborn Photographer

5 Tips for an Amazing Sitter Photo Session

There's something incredibly special about a baby's sitter photo session - those gloriously chunky cheeks, the first real glimpses of budding personality, and all the unfiltered giggles and expressions! This is such a fun age to document. Of course, we all know that working with a newly mobile 6-9 month old can also be...unpredictable, to say the least. Wiggles, dribbles, and random spit-up displays are just par for the course.

As an experienced sitter photographer, I've gotten pretty skilled at rolling with the chaos while still capturing all those dreamy portrait moments you'll cherish forever. But implementing a few key tips from both photographer and parents can help make the most of your baby's sitter session!

Tip #1:  Bring Ready-To-Eat Treats & Snacks

Bring babies' favorite puffs, yogurt melts, and other small snacks are total lifesavers for sitter sessions! Having a stash of delicious treats on hand is one of the best ways to naturally catch those ear-to-ear grins and engaged eye contact. A little nibble here and there works wonders for keeping them interested and happy during outfit changes too.

Pro tip: Avoid any bright dyes or messy snacks that could stain before the shoot!

Tip #2: Pack a Few Favorite Toy Distractions

You know those tried-and-true toys that never fail to delight and entertain your baby? Bringing a handful of those prized possessions gives us plenty of tools to work with for capturing laughs, giggles and those priceless expressions. Think rattles, stuffed animals, toys with fun crinkles or xylophone sounds.

Just be sure to avoid anything too loud, annoying or distracting during our actual shooting time! We want those ears focused on engaging with the camera.

Tip #3: Be Prepared for Nudity

Babies have zero shame at this age, amiright? It's basically a given that clothes won't stay on for long during a sitter session as your babe gets active and starts rolling around. Thank goodness, because those signature "no-pants" chunky baby poses are just the cutest!

No need to panic - nudity is totally expected and celebrated in my studio! We'll keep space heaters running to ensure your little one stays cozy. Just be ready to embrace all those gloriously squishy rolls and dimples on display.

Tip #4: Wear Stretchy, Free Clothing

Sitter sessions demand plenty of sitting, bouncing, and moving around on the floor with your baby. With all that action, you'll absolutely want to avoid anything restrictive or uncomfortable for the parents participating in photos too!

Think soft, stretchy and free in terms of fabric. You'll likely be lifted, reaching and rolling around at times while we capture family and candid moments. Most importantly - choose an outfit that lets you breathe and bend with ease.

Tip #5: Embrace the (Controlled) Chaos

When working with newly mobile babies, there's just no such thing as a perfectly posed or planned shot. Dribbles, dirt, funny expressions and plenty of blooper-reel material are guaranteed!

While I'll be doing my best to keep things under control, the most memorable sitter sessions happen when we just roll with whatever comes our way. If your baby gets squirmy or fussy, we pause for soothing breaks. If they decide to celebrate by laughing in my face, all the better!

Tip #6: Planning your outfits

We understand that finding the perfect outfit can be a daunting task, which is why we offer recommendations for outfits for kids on Amazon, as well as access to our client closet. Additionally, one gown can be used per session for mums, adding an extra touch of elegance to your photos. Find our Store front with amazon links HERE.

Our Client Closet can be accessed HERE. PLEASE NOTE: Only one client closet piece can be used per person. Grandmothers and siblings may also choose one piece. You will receive a questionnaire asking for your outfit choice following this blog post so we can have your gowns and kids outfits ready when you arrive at the studio on the day of your session.

Tip #7: Family Preparation Tips

One of the most important reminders for a successful session is to ensure everyone is well-fed and hydrated. Please remember to feed everyone before your session, preferably with lots of protein to keep energy levels up. Bringing along snacks and water is also highly encouraged to keep everyone comfortable and refreshed throughout the session.

And that’s it! You are all prepped for your session! If you need any further help prepping for your session please do not hesitate to reach out via email to [email protected] and someone from our team is happy to assist. We cannot wait to meet you and your family for a beautiful session together here soon.

A big part of what makes this stage so special is the unbridled baby energy and unpredictability. As long as we come prepared and stay flexible, all of those real, unscripted moments are absolute magic

At the end of the day, sitter sessions are all about capturing the essence of your baby in a way that forever preserves their first big personalities and quirks. It's organized chaos at its finest - and undoubtedly some of my favorite, most joyful sessions to photograph! With a few smart preparation tips and an easygoing mindset, I just know we'll create sitter portraits you'll adore for a lifetime.

So...who's ready to get in front of my camera next?! Sitter sessions are my happy place, and I can't wait to memorialize more of these precious, fleeting stages. Just reach out and we'll get your baby's bloom added to my calendar!

As always, if you HAVEN’T taken advantage of this wonderful mini session offer, please book with us ASAP as we only have a few slots left. BOOK ONLINE HERE

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For anything else please send email to : [email protected]