5 reasons to photograph an older newborn

5 reasons to photograph an older newborn

In the world of photography, the rule of thumb is that you have to have your newborn baby photographed in the first 3 weeks of their life. And of course newborns do change during those weeks faster than they will ever change. So, if you want to preserve the details from this time; all the wrinkles, dry skin, the puffiness around their eyes. I would 100% recommend doing the shoot during those first few weeks.

But, life happens and it’s not always possible to do that. And you shouldn’t feel missed out or miss out on a newborn shoot, just because they are older than 3 weeks.

So here’s my 5 reasons as to why you should still book a newborn shoot if you have passed the 3 week mark.

 

1. PERSONALITY

Of course I had to start with the most obvious one.

Although babies show their personality from the start, in many different ways. It really does start shining through about a month in. Some of those little extra quirks and funny faces they pull. The way they observe the room and the eye contact. It’s amazing to see and capture.

 

 

older newborn, in home session

2. VARIETY

With an older newborn there’s a whole new set of variety of memories that can be captured.

Although I briefly mentioned this above, but it’s worth noting again. Wide awake babies, give your gallery more variety.

The way they are all of a sudden able to interact with you a little more.

Smile – yes sometimes if we are lucky we can even catch a little smile.

And if baby is fed and kept to their usual routine, they will still fall to sleep and you will get those beautiful sleepy shots too.

 

2. VARIETY

With an older newborn there’s a whole new set of variety of memories that can be captured.

Although I briefly mentioned this above, but it’s worth noting again. Wide awake babies, give your gallery more variety.

The way they are all of a sudden able to interact with you a little more.

Smile – yes sometimes if we are lucky we can even catch a little smile.

And if baby is fed and kept to their usual routine, they will still fall to sleep and you will get those beautiful sleepy shots too.

 

3. DETAILS

Just because your baby is that little bit bigger, it doesn’t mean you can’t capture all those wonderful little details.

Their little hands are still small enough to only wrap around your finger.

Their little toes are just as small and scrumptious.

And the eyelashes may be even longer.

 

3. DETAILS

Just because your baby is that little bit bigger, it doesn’t mean you can’t capture all those wonderful little details.

Their little hands are still small enough to only wrap around your finger.

Their little toes are just as small and scrumptious.

And the eyelashes may be even longer.

 

4. RELAXING & SHORTER SESSION

If you are a first time mum, the first few weeks can be overwhelming. After all, you now have the responsibility of a tiny human being. Not to mention, the hormones.

If you opt for an older newborn session. Chances are, you have established a routine and feel a little more yourself. Resulting in feeling that little more relaxed during your session.

The big difference between photographing your baby in the first few weeks and an older newborn. Is that with an older newborn, your session is more baby led and less posed. Therefore, chances are your session will be much shorter.

4. RELAXING & SHORTER SESSION

If you are a first time mum, the first few weeks can be overwhelming. After all, you now have the responsibility of a tiny human being. Not to mention, the hormones.

If you opt for an older newborn session. Chances are, you have established a routine and feel a little more yourself. Resulting in feeling that little more relaxed during your session.

The big difference between photographing your baby in the first few weeks and an older newborn. Is that with an older newborn, your session is more baby led and less posed. Therefore, chances are your session will be much shorter.

5. AGE IS JUST A NUMBER

I am a big believer that no baby and no parent should have to miss out on those precious memories. During any stage or any week of their life, there is always some wonderful and beautiful memories to be captured.

5. AGE IS JUST A NUMBER

I am a big believer that no baby and no parent should have to miss out on those precious memories. During any stage or any week of their life, there is always some wonderful and beautiful memories to be captured.

So, these are my 5 simple reasons about why you shouldn’t miss out on a newborn shoot. Even if your baby is that little bit older. I hope this has been a nice and helpful read. And, if you like a natural simple style and want to enquire about photographing your baby just drop me a message here. 

Anna x

 

My Top Mothers Day Gifts

My Top Mothers Day Gifts

MY TOP MOTHERS DAY GIFTS
My Top Mothers Day Gifts - Barnsley family photographer

Let’s talk a little bit about motherhood and why I love Mother’s Day. Motherhood is truly the most rewarding job in the world. The most self-sacrificing yet the one that truly fills your soul. Never before have I experienced the true meaning of tiredness, guilt, constant fear but yet have an overflowing heart and be filled with gratitude.

Although Mothers Day isn’t the only day to celebrate all the wonderful things about motherhood. It’s a great reminder to appreciate our wonderful Mums. An extra day in the year to make a Mum feel that extra special, be pampered and truly spoiled by the little loves.

And I believe it’s even more important after the year we’ve had. From not being able to experience the same kind of pregnancy and birth with the nearest and dearest. All the normal things that you would usually experience with them, completely stripped away. It’s even more important to spoil her.

Oh and of course not forgetting the mums that are having to juggle being a full time mum, working mum, a cook, a cleaner and now even a full time teacher.

So this year if you really want to spoil her or want to be spoilt yourself (make sure you leave this out for dads to see), have a look at my “Top Mothers Day Gifts”. It’s a small collection of my absolute favourites. 

My Top Mothers Day Gifts - Barnsley family photographer

MUM & ME PHOTO SHOOT

Although I have added a few extra gifts in this blog. I do truly believe that there is no better present than a Mum & Me photo shoot. So dads if you are reading this, listen up.

Forget about the regular supermarket bunch of roses and chocolates (although we love these too), it is something we tend to get each year. And after a while it gets a little repetitive. If you truly want to spoil her for all the wonderful efforts of looking after the children whilst stuck in lockdown and homeschooling. Be sure to give a gift she will never forget.

This is the type of gift that she will praise you for, for years to come and constantly be sharing these gorgeous memories with her family and friends.

With our Mum & Me photo shoots, you have a choice of studio or outdoor sessions. If you have a little baby or a toddler, a simple, pure, authentic photoshoot might be just perfect.

But if your children are a little older and you all love the great outdoors, don’t worry I have you covered.

Although these sessions are named Mum & Me, I always encourage dads to get in on the action too. Although I know this may seem like the worst nightmare. Trust me, it’s worth it. Nothing beats a gorgeous family portrait, proudly displayed in your home. Not to mention, that true smile on her face. Knowing that not only you booked the shoot but actually made the effort to get involved too.

So if you would like to give her the most epic gift and want to know more just drop me a message here.

HONEYWELL & CO

So my second favourite Mother’s Day Gift would be a morning in bed (this never happens in our household) with a gorgeous cuppa, paired with some delicious treats.

And I can truly say that Honeywell & Co biscuits are absolutely scrumptious. Paired perfectly with a warm, delicious hot drink whilst all snug in bed.

The most lovely way to start a Mother’s Day morning.

Do visit their site and browse around, you’ll find a number of beautiful Mother’s Day delicious treats. But be aware, you may just add more than one box of deliciousness to your basket :).

HONEYWELL & CO

So my second favourite Mother’s Day Gift would be a morning in bed (this never happens in our household) with a gorgeous cuppa, paired with some delicious treats.

And I can truly say that Honeywell & Co biscuits are absolutely scrumptious. Paired perfectly with a warm, delicious hot drink whilst all snug in bed.

The most lovely way to start a Mother’s Day morning.

Do visit their site and browse around, you’ll find a number of beautiful Mother’s Day delicious treats. But be aware, you may just add more than one box of deliciousness to your basket :).

GORGEOUS FLOWERS BY ASHLEE JANE

Flowers are certainly a staple gift on every Mother’s Day. It’s the first thing many think of. And who doesn’t love a beautiful bunch of flowers. But what we love more is, the effort and thought put in to choosing flowers.

So look no further. There is no other florist I love more than Ashlee Jane, from The Suffolk Nest. Her talent is simply amazing. With stylish, beautiful and elegant bouquets, you definitely can’t go wrong.

And this year Ashlee is doing a Mothers Day Bouquet Kit. This will include all the beautiful flowers, vase, gift wrapping and a video tutorial to create the gorgeous spiral, hand tied bouquet.

You can create this with your little ones in advance, trust me she will not only love the bouquet but all the effort you and the kids have put in.

To order just drop Ashlee a message on her instagram page here. Be quick as they sell out fast.

THE WHITE COMPANY

Anyone that knows me, knows my love for anything at The White Company.

From their beautiful home wear, to premium fragrances and luxurious clothing, you’ll never go wrong. It’s a carefully put together collection of everything that will fit perfectly in any home.

My favourites for Mother’s Day have to be, their luxurious pyjamas paired with some cashmere socks for the ultimate comfort. Perfect for lounging about and enjoying breakfast in bed.

And of course not forgetting their beautiful candles, my favourite for this time of the year is Honeysuckle, Rose and Cut Grass candle. It fills your home with the most gorgeous smell of Spring.

THE WHITE COMPANY

Anyone that knows me, knows my love for anything at The White Company.

From their beautiful home wear, to premium fragrances and luxurious clothing, you’ll never go wrong. It’s a carefully put together collection of everything that will fit perfectly in any home.

My favourites for Mother’s Day have to be, their luxurious pyjamas paired with some cashmere socks for the ultimate comfort. Perfect for lounging about and enjoying breakfast in bed.

And of course not forgetting their beautiful candles, my favourite for this time of the year is Honeysuckle, Rose and Cut Grass candle. It fills your home with the most gorgeous smell of Spring.

My Top Mothers Day Gifts with Jessica Steele Jewellery

A TOUCH OF LUXURY WITH JESSICA STEELE JEWELLERY

 Let’s face it, who doesn’t love a gorgeous, luxurious, piece of jewellery?! Even more so if they tell a story or it’s a sentimental piece.

I remember back when I was a little girl, I used to spend hours searching for that perfect necklace or bracelet for my mum, before asking my dad to go buy it with me. And seeing the smile on her face was so worth it.

A beautiful bracelet or necklace is a perfect way to show mums all the appreciation. And one of my favourite jewellers out there is Jessica Steele Jewellery. With her beautiful, delicate pieces, there’s plenty to choose from to put a smile on her face.

Click here to browse the collection.

I hope you have enjoyed reading “My Top Mother’s Day Gift” guide and have found the perfect gift you’re looking for. 

Anna x

Doorstep Portraits – Christmas

Doorstep Portraits – Christmas

Doorstep portraits – Christmas, is certainly a strange title for end of January blog, but I thought it may catch your attention.

Firstly, I do want to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy New Year (as happy as it can be)!

Yes…I am completely aware of it being end of January. However, with the news at the beginning of the year, homeschooling has completely took over our household. Any evening work has been placed on hold and replaced with a large glass of wine and early nights. That’s until we managed to get some sort of routine going. Although I am still working through this routine.

So, here I am (currently 11.58pm trying desperately to catch up with writing my blogs).

 

WHAT IS DOORSTEP PORTRAITS?

If you’ve not heard of door step portraits before, it started back in the first lockdown of 2020. When the Coronavirus pandemic has brought everything to halt, we found ourselves clapping for NHS and key workers, painting rainbows and forced to stop seeing our family and friends. Our studios also had to close and that’s where door step portraits were born. I’d say it was the perfect way to document a part of “the year we all stayed home”. 

So I had an idea, to do the same for the people in my neighbourhood. But during the most magical time of the year: Christmas. With many people still working from home and many venues closed, it was the perfect pick me up for everyone. A perfectly safe way to capture you and your family in the comfort of your own front door. Whilst still being able to social distance, making it fun and safe at the same time.

 

A BIG THANK YOU 

I must say it was so much fun capturing these photographs, seeing all the excitement on children’s faces, all ready for Christmas is truly joyful. Particularly in such difficult times. With everyone getting their decks out, wearing Christmas jumpers and outfits, the Christmas spirit was certainly in the air.

So I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone taking part and trusting me to create these gorgeous memories for you. And I will certainly be doing them towards the end of this year.

 

Anna x

 

Christmas door step portraits - Barnsley
Christmas door step portraits - grey door
Christmas door step portraits for families

I hope you’ve enjoyed this blog and if you have any questions or would like to enquire about door step portrait or any other shoots please get in touch. 

Shop Small This Christmas

Shop Small This Christmas

It’s that time of the year again! The time to indulge in plenty of hot chocolate, biscuits and mince pies. All whilst snuggled up watching classic Christmas films. The reality though is that, we usually run round frantically looking for those last Christmas presents, rather than actually enjoying all the wonders of Christmas.

Although this year has been, well…many things. I am still super excited for Christmas. And, what’s more exciting I can enjoy all the Christmas shopping with my hot chocolate and Christmas film at the same time. I must say, all the deliveries, have me skipping to the door (a bit like Christmas Day, when you’re running downstairs in excitement).

I’ve also enjoyed looking further than just the stores I’d usually shop from. There are so many wonderful small businesses out there who create beautiful things with so much love.

Here’s a small list of little businesses that I have enjoyed following and ordering from. Ranging from delicious treats, gorgeous jewellery, amazing portraits and more, there’s definitely something for everyone.

 

What can I say about Honeywell Biscuit Co. Not only are their biscuits gorgeous to look at but they are incredibly delicious. All put together with love and care by a super talented team.

Using only the best and where possible local ingredients, you are in for a real treat.  

With so many stunning designs, baking kits for adults and children there is plenty for you to choose from as a perfect Christmas gift.

I came across Rosie Bow Jewellery whilst swiping through insta stories. Straight away I had to check out Kate’s account.

I just adore the dainty, simple style of everything Kate makes. 

If you’re looking for a special gift for your friend or loved one, be sure to check out Kate’s account. 

 

A personalised portrait is always an amazing gift, that keeps on giving.

And Kamala’s bespoke portraits are simply breathtaking. The detail in her drawings are out of this world. 

A perfect gift for that special someone.

Charlotte creates the most gorgeous, freehand embroidered house accessories, cards and prints.

 

If you are looking for a perfect bespoke stocking filler or even something for yourself or your little ones. Please do take a look at her shop. 

 

I have a few little Christmas decorations waiting in the basket too. Which reminds me, I must get them ordered in time for Christmas. 

 

 

 

Organic and gentle skin care for little ones and grown ups too.

I was super excited to find Rue & Cole little business, as I am always on the look out for good skin care, especially for my little ones. And even more excited to know that it’s a Yorkshire based business too.

Using only natural ingredients and products that are kind to the planet too, you or your loved one are in for a real pampering treat. 

 

JESSICA STEELE JEWELLERY

Jessica Steele Jewellery is another Yorkshire based business. Making the most gorgeous jewellery. From wedding rings to necklaces, bracelets and more, there’s plenty to choose from.

Oh and not to mention her bespoke service too. If you would like to make something new from something old. Maybe something passed down. You can work closely with Jessica Steele Jewellery to create the perfect gift, whether it’s for you or a loved one. 

 

 

Murphy and Me is one of my favourite little businesses out there. Frances creates such adorable portraits and personalised illustrations.

From personalsied pet portraits (we have one proudly displayed at home of our beloeved lab), to baby and family illustrations.

There’s plenty to choose from.

 

ANNA KIREEVA PHOTOGRAPHY

 

Yes, I did sneak myself into this blog :).But, whether it’s maternity, newborn or a family session. Capturing beautiful memories is always a perfect gift. So how could I not include it?! 

We offer vouchers for each session, so please do get in touch if you would like to purchase a voucher towards any session. 

 

 

Newborn Photography Barnsley, all white

A gift for little ones. If you are looking to gift something creative, then Organised Chaos with Kids is the perfect place to start your Christmas shopping. 

A small business with a huge passion for play, creativity and sustainability. You”ll find lots of homemade, eco conscious play dough and play kits that stimulates your little ones natural creativity and imagination. 

Photography by Laura Aziz

Bambino Store UK is a lovely little business based in Yorkshire. Specialising in beautiful, organic and top quality baby clothing, soft toys and nursery accessories. 

If you are looking for something that’s delicate on babies skin, great minimalist design using only natural materials and organic cotton. Bambino Store UK is the perfect place to find a perfect gift.

 

I hope this blog has been helpful and you’ve found some lovely gifts to give this Christmas. If I do come across any more, I will certainly add them to this blog. 

Anna x

Cake Smash Photography Sheffield

Cake Smash Photography Sheffield

If you’ve come across this “Cake Smash Photography Sheffield” blog, you must be looking for a fun way to mark your baby’s first birthday, around the area. Although I am actually based just outside Barnsley, I often have clients from Sheffield and Rotherham.

What an exciting time it is, turning one! And a cake smash can be the perfect way to celebrate and create some really fun memories.

 

ABOUT MY STYLE

Although traditionally cake smashes are bright, jazzy, themed and colourful. I, on the other hand adore a more natural approach. And it makes me so happy that my clients love the idea too.

I do this by keeping everything simple. Eliminating all the unnecessary distractions such as, lots of decorations, colourful outfits and jazzy cakes. Not that there is anything wrong with them, but it’s just not for me. 

Instead, I provide beautiful neutral and pastel outfits for your little ones to wear. Some gorgeous wooden toys that they can play with. And a simply decorated cake, that is super delicious.

I adore capturing your baby’s personalities and all their little details, whilst they are playing and tooking into the cake. From portrait photos, to capturing them playing, their tiny fingers and toes, real laughs and interactions.

It’s so much fun to watch. Some babies love to stuff their little faces whilst others pick at it with their little fingers. You will see both examples from these gorgeous twins below.

Once they’ve demolished the cake, the bath tub comes out. We splash around, play with bubbles and rubber ducks.

This style allows me to completely focus on your baby and create timeless memories, which will not go out of fashion.

If you would like more information, simply click here. Or just drop me a message and I would be happy to help.

Anna x

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