Pregnancy is a magical journey filled with moments of anticipation, fear but also joy and beauty. We speak to expectant parents on a daily basis here at Kingshill Studios, and we love hearing your story, finding out about your family and your plans to welcome your new baby in to the world. Often in pregnancy, we focus on the delivery and the date of baby’s arrival, but what about the chapters before that? What better way to cherish these moments than through the lens of a camera!
Read More5 First Birthday Ideas for Your Baby
Congratulations! You have made it through your first year of parenting.
Whether you are a first time mum or your little one is joining a team of brothers and sisters… This is such a memorable milestone, deserving special celebrations!
It is incredible how much babies develop and change in their first year, from the moment you hold them for the first time, through all of the other beautiful “firsts” you will remember forever - including their first BIG birthday!
So ready to make it extra-special?
Here is our list of 5 first birthday ideas for your baby!
First Birthday Ideas: Create a “time capsule”
Creating a memory box or a time capsule is a beautiful way of documenting your little one’s first year: get a sturdy container, like a metal tin or a plastic box to house these items securely, and decorate the time capsule with your baby's name and birth date for a personalized touch.
Include in your box any special keepsakes, then bury or hide it in a safe place until they are older - and surprise them with it!
Here is a small list of things you could include in the time capsule:
Photos - lots and lots of photos, as these become even more precious as the time passes. Of course, if you had a newborn photoshoot with them don’t forget to include those photos!
A newspaper from the day of their birthday or (alternative) a local newspaper from the same week.
Ask grandparents and other family members to write letters you can include in the box, and if baby has young siblings they can create some drawings instead!
You can of course also include things like a favorite toy or their special outfit.
Outdoor Picnic Party
This might sound a little old-fashioned, but family time spent outdoors is always special!
For an unforgettable outdoor picnic party, set up a cosy blanket under the shade of a big tree, so you can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Make sure to pack a picnic basket filled with delicious snacks like sandwiches, fruits, cheese, and refreshing drinks. Don't forget to bring along some games and activities to keep everyone entertained, especially if older siblings are part of the crew!
Remember to bring a trash bag to clean up afterward and leave no trace behind. Enjoy the fresh air, the company of loved ones, and the simplicity of a lovely outdoor picnic. It's a beautiful way to celebrate and create lasting memories on your special occasion.
First Birthday Ideas: Baby-Friendly Sensory Play
Sensory play is a fantastic way to help your little one explore the world around them. Set up a simple sensory bin with items like uncooked rice, soft fabric scraps, and textured balls. Let your baby touch and feel the different textures, stimulating their sense of touch and curiosity. You can also create a DIY sensory board using materials like faux fur, sandpaper, and bubble wrap to introduce new tactile experiences.
Another fun activity is making sensory bottles by filling clear bottles with water, glitter, and small toys. Secure the lids tightly and let your baby shake and giggle at the mesmerising effects. This activity isn't only entertaining but also helps develop your baby's visual tracking skills.
For a mess-free option, try sensory bags filled with hair gel, food coloring, and small objects like beads. Seal the bags and let your baby squish and move the gel around, creating a sensory delight.
Sensory play encourages exploration, boosts cognitive development, and provides a sensory-rich environment for your baby to learn and grow… the perfect way to enter their second year of life!
Storybook Character Theme
Next in the list of our first birthday ideas: a storybook!
Yes, you read that right - many companies these days offer the option of creating a personalised storybook for your baby. If you don’t know any yet, Wonderbly is one of the most popular options and offers a wide range of options (for babies and adults).
A first birthday photoshoot
Our list of first birthday ideas wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a First Birthday Photoshoot to capture this special milestone.
Get ready for a messy and fun-filled adventure that will also give your family some stunning portraits of your little one’s growing personality! This adorable photoshoot involves letting your baby loose on a beautifully decorated cake, allowing them to dig in, smash, and create a delightful mess. It's a fantastic way to capture some truly memorable and candid photos that you'll cherish for years to come.
Your Cake Smash Photoshoot at our studio also includes “clean” portraits before the cake is brought in and a final “splash” in our miniature bath tub.
To learn more about capturing your baby’s first birthday with a Cake Smash Photoshoot visit our First Birthday page or get in touch!
4 Things you didn’t know about your newborn photography session
If you are here, chances are you are considering a newborn photography session for your new baby… so, congratulations!
Choosing the right photography studio and photographer to capture your baby’s first week of life is obviously an important decision, and if you are here you have almost certainly done some research and visited our Newborn Page, but how about walking behind the scenes of our photoshoots to discover a little more?
Welcome to our “4 things you didn’t know about your newborn photography session” guide!
First: booking in advance come at no risk
We always encourage parents to get in touch during pregnancy to discuss their newborn photography session, and there are a few reasons for this:
1 - It Guarantees Your Slot
Newborn Photography Sessions are special for us too, so we must limit the spaces available to offer the best possible experience (and quality of work) to families, and to ensure we can be flexible if your little one is early or late
2 - It Gives Us Time To Plan
We love to offer a pre-session consultation to all families, to give us a little time to discuss the styling of your session, introduce you to our printed artwork and ensure you are completely comfortable with the process.
3 - Babies Are Not Tiny For Long!
The best time to photograph your little one is when they are under three weeks of age (although we can book your session even if baby is a little older, don’t worry!) so booking in advance means your space is reserved and as soon as your newborn arrives we can confirm the actual shoot date.
The best time for your newborn photography session
As mentioned above, the best time for your newborn photography session is during the first three weeks of life, when baby still naturally settles into those curly poses and easily falls into a deeper rest… But don’t worry if they are a little older!
We know that those memories are still incredibly important for you so we will always do our best to capture them for your family. While we might adapt our workflow if your newborn is a little older, we can still absolutely capture some stunning portraits for you.
So, if you are considering a newborn photography session and baby has already arrived please let us know right away so we can walk you through your options.
Family images are included
Years from now, when your newborn baby is not little anymore, family images taken during your newborn photography session will be some of their most treasured memories… And this is exactly why we include family shots at no additional cost with every newborn photoshoot.
Let's face it, the opportunities for good family images will be very few and far between in the next few months, especially if this is not your first baby, so your newborn photography session is the perfect opportunity for this.
And don’t worry, there are many creative ways of including you and your partner in your images even if you don’t feel too comfortable being in front of the camera.
Call the baby whisperer!
As you can imagine, there is more to newborn photography than “just” photography.
During your newborn photography session we’ll continuously “read” your little one needs to ensure they are comfortable and happy, and we will work using a specialist “baby-led” workflow that allows us to capture a variety of beautiful portraits while minimising movements and disruptions to your baby’s sleep.
As we always say, your baby cannot talk, so choosing a photographer who is experienced in working with newborns is key to ensure this experience is stress-free for the whole family!
Want to know a little more about choosing your newborn photographer?
Read our dedicated blog post or get in touch to discuss your newborn photography session!
First-Time Parents: Preparing for Parenthood
So, you are expecting… first things first, congratulations!
Preparing for parenthood as a first-time parent is an incredible, magical experience but with that at times you might feel a little overwhelmed. We’ve got your back!
This article will guide you through some steps you can take to ensure you feel more prepared for your little one’s arrival.
From nursery to baby essentials and prenatal classes… let’s jump into this amazing time of your life.
Setting up the Nursery
When preparing for parenthood, ensure the nursery is organised and welcoming for the new arrival with a cosy and functional space where you and your little one can spend quality time together.
Start by selecting a soothing color scheme that promotes relaxation and rest: soft pastel tones like light blues, gentle pinks, or calming greens can create a serene atmosphere perfect for a nursery.
Invest in furniture that's both practical and safe for your baby: a sturdy cot with adjustable mattress heights is a must-have item. Remember to add a comfortable rocking chair or glider for those late-night feedings or snuggle sessions. Don't forget ample storage for all the baby essentials like nappies, wipes, and extra clothes. Bins, baskets, and shelves can help keep everything tidy and easily accessible.
Decorate the nursery with personal touches that make it feel like home. Soft rugs, blackout curtains, and gentle nightlights can enhance the coziness of the room. Consider adding some soothing music or white noise machine to help your baby drift off to dreamland.
Creating a Birth Plan
A birth plan is a helpful document that allows you to communicate your desires for labour, delivery, and postpartum care with your healthcare providers. It can include your preferences on pain management, who you want present during labor, and any special requests you may have for the birth experience.
If working with a doula, remember she can also help with your birth plan and to coordinate with your midwife and medical team.
While writing a birth plan requires careful consideration, don’t forget to include details like whether you prefer a natural birth, if you want to labour in a certain position, or if you have specific cultural or religious practices you want to incorporate. Additionally, consider aspects such as whether you want immediate skin-to-skin contact with your baby after birth, your preferences for breastfeeding, and if you have any specific dietary restrictions or requests during your hospital stay.
Baby Essentials for first-time parents
As first-time parents, exploring the world of baby products can be overwhelming, but fear not! We're here to guide you through the must-haves to welcome your little one comfortably.
Let's start with the basics. A safe and cosy sleeping environment is a top priority. You'll need a cot or bassinet with a firm mattress, fitted sheets, and wearable blankets to keep your baby snug. For nappy duty, also stock up on wipes, cream, and a changing pad for quick clean-ups.
When it comes to feeding time, whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, a few essentials are universal. Nursing bras, breast pads, a breast pump, bottles, formula (if needed), and burp cloths are essential items to have on hand.
To keep your baby clean and happy, invest in a baby bathtub, hooded towels, washcloths, gentle baby soap, and lotion. And don't forget about clothing! Onesies, sleepers, socks, and hats will keep your little one comfortable and stylish.
Lastly, for travel and outings, a reliable car seat, stroller, and nappy bag are non-negotiable. These items will make your life easier and guarantee your baby's safety on the go.
Preparing for Labour and Delivery as a first time parent
As the big day approaches, it's normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Here are some practical tips to help you get ready for this life-changing event.
Prenatal classes offer valuable information about the stages of labour, breathing techniques, pain management options, and what to expect during delivery. They can help you feel more confident and prepared when the time comes.
Pack your hospital bag in advance. Include essentials like comfortable clothing, toiletries, snacks, and important documents. Don't forget to pack items for your partner or support person as well.
Discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider.
Practice relaxation techniques. Whether it's deep breathing, visualisation, or massage, find what helps you stay calm and focused during labor. Remember, you've got this!
Lastly, ensure you have transportation arrangements to the hospital or birthing center, so everything is planned and ready on the day!
Financial Planning for Parenthood
As you prepare for parenthood, managing your finances efficiently is important for limiting stress for your growing family. Financial planning for parenthood involves creating a budget, setting aside savings, and considering expenses like nappies formula, healthcare, and childcare. It's crucial to plan ahead and make informed decisions to provide the best for your new addition.
Start by evaluating your current financial situation: your income, expenses, debts, and savings. Create a budget that accounts for upcoming baby-related costs and adjust your spending as needed. Consider setting up a separate savings account specifically for baby expenses to stay organised.
Don’t forget to research and understand the financial benefits available to new parents. This could include parental leave policies at your workplace, government assistance programs, and tax relief and benefits for families. Take advantage of any resources that can help alleviate financial stress during parental leave.
Establishing a Support System
Parenthood can be a rollercoaster of emotions, from overwhelming joy to moments of uncertainty, so having a support system in place can make this journey smoother and more manageable.
First and foremost, lean on your partner. Parenthood is a team effort, and having open communication and sharing responsibilities can help lighten the load. Friends and family can also be a great source of support, whether it's for a listening ear, a helping hand, or some well-needed advice from those who have gone through baby’s arrival before you.
Consider joining parenting groups in your community or online. Connecting with other parents who are going through similar experiences can provide a sense of belonging and valuable insights. And, of course, don't underestimate the importance of taking care of yourself. Self-care isn't selfish; it's necessary to recharge and be the best parent you can be.
Self-Care for New Parents
As you start on this exciting journey, remember that taking care of yourself isn't selfish but necessary for you to be the best parent you can be. Here are some practical self-care tips to help you along the way.
Don't forget to rest when the baby rests. Sleep deprivation is a real struggle for new parents, so take naps whenever you can and try to get as much rest as possible… your body and mind will thank you for it!
Also, don’t forget to make time for yourself. It's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of feeding, changing nappies, and soothing your little one, but remember to carve out some time for activities you enjoy. Whether it's reading a book or simply taking a long shower, do something that makes you happy.
Lastly, don't be afraid to ask for help. Lean on your partner, family, and friends for support. Whether it's help with household chores, babysitting, or just a listening ear, accepting help isn't a sign of weakness but a sign of strength.
Anticipating Postpartum Challenges
While this time is filled with love and magic, it can also bring about feelings of exhaustion, anxiety, and even sadness. It's important to acknowledge these possibilities and equip yourself with strategies to navigate them effectively.
Hormonal changes, coupled with the stress of adjusting to your new role as a parent, can trigger feelings of overwhelm or even postpartum depression. Seeking support from loved ones, joining a new parents' group, and obviously speaking with a healthcare provider can provide the assistance and reassurance you need during this time.
Navigating postpartum challenges requires patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to ask for help when needed and remember: you aren't alone in this journey!
Conclusion
As you start on this incredible journey into parenthood, remember to embrace the challenges and joys that come your way.
Just like a ship steering through rough seas, you have the strength and resilience to weather any storm that parenting may bring.
With preparation, support, and self-care, you'll be equipped to handle whatever comes your way.
Trust in yourself and your ability to steer the waters of parenthood with grace and determination.
Happy parenting!
Three reasons to plan your newborn baby photoshoot ASAP
Please don’t leave planning your newborn baby photoshoot to the last minute! There are so many reasons why it’s worth getting it organised early. Read on to find out more!
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How to choose your newborn photographer
If you’ve just found out that you’re expecting a baby, huge congratulations! What an incredibly exciting time for you and your family! You won’t need me to tell you that life is about to change pretty significantly (for the better, of course!). Becoming a parent is huge, huge blessing!
Among the decisions you’ll soon need to make as a parent-to-be is ‘Who will you choose to take professional photos of your newborn once they arrive’?
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Are sibling photos included in your baby’s newborn photoshoot?
Many families who visit us for a newborn photoshoot are not first-time parents. They have a young family already.
So, it’s no surprise that one of the most common questions that we get asked is whether siblings photos are included in their baby’s newborn photoshoot. Read on to discover the answer!
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What should you wear to your pregnancy photoshoot?
If you’re considering booking a pregnancy photoshoot with us then, naturally, you might wonder what clothes you should wear for the session.
In this article, I’m showing examples of what women have previously worn in their pregnancy portraits and sharing tips on what clothing might work well.
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Choosing the Perfect Newborn Photographer: A Guide for New Parents
Bringing a new life into the world is a momentous occasion filled with love, anticipation, and joy. As parents, you will want to capture every precious moment of your newborn's early days, and choosing the right newborn photographer is key to preserving these memories for a lifetime. With numerous local photographers to choose from, here's a comprehensive guide to help you make the best choice for your family.
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Be more like Wendy…
Written by Carla
If you’ve followed Kingshill Studios for a while, you’ll know that in June last year, life as we knew it changed forever.
As we approach the 3rd of June 2023, it still feels very surreal to me what happened almost one year ago.
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From motherhood to mindfulness
As some of you may know, our office manager Carla is the face behind The Honest Mummy over on Instagram. She’s been sharing her parenting ups & downs for over two years now and I asked her to share her journey…
As I look back over my five years into motherhood so far, there’s one thing that comes out on top when it comes to what I’ve learned.
And it’s what I’ve learned about myself, the person I’ve become and how different she is to the person I used to be.
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Colleen & David share their 'Kingshill Experience'
We’ve spoken about the Kingshill Experience here on the blog before, but we thought it would be great to get it from a client’s perspective.
We know that coming somewhere new can be a little daunting, never mind throwing in the element of coming along with a brand new baby.
Colleen and David visited us recently with their precious baby, Astrid, and kindly shared these words for us to share with you. Still thinking about coming along to us? Read on to hear why your experience with us is second-to-none.
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What’s a PURE newborn session at Kingshill Studios?
Here at Kingshill Studios, we spend a lot of time thinking about what our clients want and the type of images they wish to display in their homes for years to come.
A few years ago now, we introduced our PURE newborn sessions which have been increasingly popular since, with around 70% of our clients option for one of these sessions.
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Been blessed with two? Book a newborn twins photoshoot at Kingshill Studios!
Many parents of twins have chosen us to photograph their babies as newborns.
Read on for more information about these relaxed photoshoots for newborn twins and to see examples of our twin portraits.
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New! Gender Reveal Photography
Many couples choose to find out the sex of their baby during pregnancy these days, and a gender reveal portrait session is a chance to make an occasion of it.
By having a photoshoot with us, we can document the elation and joy that you and your partner feel in the moment of the reveal. It’s fun and exciting, and a lovely experience for you both!
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You can dance! Dance photoshoots at Kingshill Studios
We’ve just added dance photoshoots to our services. If you have an aspiring dancer in the family, these new sessions are for you!
Our new ‘You Can Dance’ photoshoots are perfect for children of all ages who have a passion for movement and music.
If your son or daughter would love the opportunity to be pictured wearing their favourite dance costumes and showing their best moves, then we’d be excited to have them in the photography studio!
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What to expect from an outdoor maternity photoshoot at Kingshill Studios
Are you considering an outdoor maternity photoshoot?
If so, this article will show you examples of the flattering maternity portraits we could create for you and your family as you await the arrival of your new baby.
Looking to book a baby photoshoot in Aberdeen?
Are you looking to book a baby photoshoot? Well, if you’re based in Aberdeen, and are either expecting a baby or have recently welcomed your new addition, then you’re in the right place!
Here at Kingshill Studios, in Kingswells, we specialise in baby, child and family portrait photography. Keep reading to find out more.
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Team News: Carla is back!
After some time away after the birth of her second daughter, our Office Manager, Carla, has returned to Kingshill Studios. Welcome back, Carla!
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Family pregnancy photos Aberdeen
Your pregnancy is the start of a wonderful and exciting new adventure for you and your family. So, it’s clear why many mums-to-be choose to treasure the moment in photographs.
As well as our popular newborn photography service, we specialise in creating stylish and flattering maternity portraits, and family pregnancy photos too. Keep reading to find out more.
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