Winter can be a challenging time for parents of newborns. With plummeting temperatures and unpredictable weather, it’s important to create a comfortable home environment that will keep your little one safe, healthy and happy. As a newborn photographer based in Rugby, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing the precious moments of many families with newborns, and I understand the importance of creating a warm and nurturing space for your baby.

Whether you’re an expecting mum or a new mum, you want the best for your child. But with so much information out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

That’s why I’ve put together this guide on creating a comfortable home environment for your newborn in winter.

From temperature control to safe sleeping, I’ll provide you with practical tips and advice to help you navigate this exciting but challenging time.

Temperature Control:

One of the most important factors in creating a comfortable home environment for your newborn is temperature control. Babies are unable to regulate their body temperature as effectively as adults, so it’s important to ensure that your home is kept at a consistent and comfortable temperature.

As a general rule, the ideal temperature range for newborns is between 68°F and 72°F (20°C and 22°C). However, it’s important to note that every baby is different, and you should monitor your child’s behaviour to determine if they are comfortable. Signs that your baby may be too hot or too cold include sweating, flushed cheeks, or shivering.

Here are some tips for regulating the temperature in your home:

• Use a reliable thermometer to monitor the temperature in your baby’s room. You can find a wide range of affordable and accurate digital thermometers online or at your local pharmacy.
• Dress your baby in appropriate clothing. Layers are key, as they allow you to add or remove clothing as needed. Avoid dressing your baby in too many layers, as this can lead to overheating.
• Use a baby sleep sack or swaddle to help regulate your baby’s body temperature. These products are designed to keep your baby warm and snug without the need for additional blankets.
• Invest in a good-quality humidifier. Winter air can be dry, which can lead to irritated skin and nasal passages. A humidifier will add moisture to the air, making it easier for your baby to breathe and helping to prevent dry skin.

By following these tips, you can create a warm and comfortable environment for your newborn that will help them sleep better and thrive. Remember to monitor your baby’s behaviour and adjust your temperature control strategies as needed

Humidity Control:

Humidity is another important factor in creating a comfortable home environment for your newborn, especially during the dry winter months. Babies are more susceptible to respiratory infections and skin irritations in dry environments, so it’s important to maintain optimal humidity levels in your home.

The ideal humidity range for newborns is between 40% and 60%. You can purchase a hygrometer, a device that measures humidity levels, to monitor the humidity in your baby’s room.

Here are some tips for adding moisture to the air:

• Use a humidifier. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, making it easier for your baby to breathe and helping to prevent dry skin. Be sure to clean your humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
• Take a warm bath with your baby. Bath time is a great opportunity to add moisture to the air and soothe your baby. Just be sure to dry your baby thoroughly after the bath to prevent skin irritation.
• Use a saline nasal spray or drops. Winter air can dry out your baby’s nasal passages, making it harder for them to breathe. Saline nasal spray or drops can help moisturize the nasal passages and make breathing easier.
• Avoid over-drying your home. Central heating and air conditioning can dry out the air in your home, leading to dry skin and respiratory problems. Consider using a humidifier or opening windows to increase air circulation and reduce dryness.

By following these tips, you can help maintain a comfortable and healthy environment for your newborn in the dry winter months. Remember to monitor the humidity levels in your home and adjust your strategies as needed.

Clothing and Bedding:

Proper clothing and bedding are essential for creating a comfortable home environment for your newborn in winter. However, it’s important to strike the right balance between keeping your baby warm and preventing overheating, which can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Here are some tips for selecting clothing and bedding for your newborn in winter:

• Dress your baby in layers. Layers allow you to add or remove clothing as needed, depending on the temperature. Start with a onesie or undershirt, add a sweater or jacket, and top it off with a warm hat and mittens.
• Choose clothing made from breathable fabrics. Natural fabrics like cotton and bamboo are ideal, as they allow your baby’s skin to breathe and prevent overheating.
• Avoid using too many blankets. Instead, opt for a warm sleep sack or swaddle that will keep your baby snug and secure without the need for additional blankets.
• Use a firm and flat mattress. A firm and flat mattress is safest for your baby. Avoid using pillows, cushions, or stuffed animals in the crib.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your baby is warm, comfortable, and safe in their clothing and bedding during the winter months. Remember to monitor your baby’s behaviour and adjust their clothing and bedding as needed.

UK-based resources about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) that you may find helpful:

1. The Lullaby Trust: The Lullaby Trust is a UK-based charity that provides support and advice to families affected by SIDS, as well as funding research into the causes and prevention of SIDS. They offer a range of resources and information on safe sleeping practices for babies, including a Safer Sleep for Babies guide: https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safer-sleep-advice/
2. NHS: The National Health Service (NHS) provides guidance on reducing the risk of SIDS, including advice on safe sleeping positions, temperature control, and breastfeeding: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/reducing-risk-cot-death/
3. Public Health England: Public Health England provides information on reducing the risk of SIDS, as well as resources for healthcare professionals: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/reducing-the-risk-of-sudden-infant-death-syndrome-sids

It’s important to always consult with a healthcare professional for advice specific to your baby’s needs and circumstances.

Indoor Air Quality:

Maintaining good indoor air quality is essential for creating a comfortable home environment for your newborn in winter. Poor indoor air quality can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and skin irritations, so it’s important to take steps to improve the air quality in your home.

Here are some tips for improving indoor air quality:

• Keep your home clean. Regular cleaning can help reduce the amount of dust, pollen, and other allergens in your home. Vacuum carpets and rugs regularly, dust surfaces with a damp cloth, and use a HEPA air purifier to filter out pollutants.
• Avoid smoking inside. Secondhand smoke can be harmful to your baby’s health, so it’s important to avoid smoking inside your home. If you or someone in your household smokes, try to quit or smoke outside.
• Use natural cleaning products. Harsh cleaning chemicals can release harmful fumes into the air. Consider using natural cleaning products, such as vinegar and baking soda, to clean your home.
• Ventilate your home. Proper ventilation can help reduce indoor air pollutants. Open windows and doors, use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen, and consider installing a heat recovery ventilation system.
• Test for radon. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can be harmful to your health. You can purchase a radon testing kit online or at your local hardware store to test for radon levels in your home.

Remember to monitor your baby’s behaviour and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about their health or wellbeing.

Creating a comfortable home environment for your newborn in winter can be challenging, but with the right strategies and tips, you can ensure that your little one stays warm, healthy, and happy. By regulating temperature and humidity, selecting appropriate clothing and bedding, ensuring safe sleeping, providing proper nutrition, and improving indoor air quality, you can create a nurturing and comfortable space for your baby.

At Lisa Scott Photography, we understand the importance of capturing the precious moments of your growing family. We offer both newborn sessions and maternity sessions in Rugby, providing a professional and personalised experience for families in and around the area. Our sessions are designed to capture the beauty and joy of this special time in your life, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re looking for a professional newborn or maternity photographer in Rugby, this is for you!

Lisa Scotto Photography spcialises in Newborn Sessions https://www.lisascottphotography.com/newborn-sessions-rugby/ and Maternity Photoshoots https://www.lisascottphotography.com/maternity-sessions-rugby/ for families in and around Rugby.

Thank you for reading, and we wish you all the best on your journey as a new parent!

Personal items is a different way to express the love for your newborn with items from the past or present. This is a one of a kind experience for your shoot that captures your personality throughout the session time. The items can be anything from grandparents hats, sentimental items, old cameras, motorbike helmets, sports memorabilia and even gaming controllers. These items can add meaning to your photos to tell a story of your babies life at the beginning.

A viewing of images that brought us to tears…

Seeing your images for the first time can be emotional. There is a magic that happens capturing a newborn when they are so little. For me, watching people view their images is so rewarding when you see the happiness that photos can create.

At a viewing this week I had the pleasure of showing Savanna, Kane and their family their photos of their new arrival. This photoshoot was based around lots of personal items that they brought in for the session. So seeing their reaction is something that I will never forget.

These memories will be treasured and will be looked back upon in years to come. I always ask if parents want to bring any personal items with them and if they do I will create an image to show these items off with the baby.

The personal items that we used throughout this session was Xbox controllers, gaming headphones, a pseronal photo frame, angel wings and teddies for the new baby.

When the slideshow was viewed the parents had a few tears and seeing how much these images meant to them left us with tears as well. Happy tears I should add.

Photographing on colours you want

Choosing colours is an essential part of my set up, I also find out this information before hand. 

Parents may have a particular colour scheme in mind and may want to match certain colours that they have a special meaning to them. 

Some colours may want to match the baby’s bedroom, or lounge colours. Asking about colour preferences ensures that the parents are involved in the images they would like to be shown on their walls. 

Family photos, oh go on then…

Its not everyones cup of tea to have photos when you have a newborn, but if you feel brave to step in front of the camera this is an amazing time to get the family together. These guys decided to get a few family photos done at the end of their session. The best smile was waiting for the end, when we got a little smile from baby!

A few more photos to share

Sharing photos is not always allowed, however this family were amazing and have let me share their photos. A massive thank you. See you in August x

Lisa Scott is a Newborn photographer and aims to create memories that will last a lifetime for families in and around Rugby.

To view more work, please visit the newborn gallery Or to book a session please visit the Contact Page.

You may think that to have a newborn session so fast after giving birth is the last thing you would want to do. I understand that completely, as it was the last thing on my mind. 

To get out of the house within the first few weeks takes time, practice and sometimes pain and discomfort. I talk from experience as I remember us being a little apprehensive about taking our newly born bundle of joy out of the house, although we were also a little excited.

I can remember the time it took me to get out of the house after both my children. Both births were at the opposite ends of the scale, chalk and cheese. I was worried, unorganized and I didn’t really want to go to our planned newborn session. However, 10 years later I can honestly say that we are so, so pleased we did.

When my little girl was born the first trip we took was to go on a newborn training day. I look back now and think I was either stupid or mad or possibly both. The course was one and a half hours drive away and then 5 hours learning the basics about the art of newborn photography with my new baby as the model. These moments we can’t get back and once the day was completed I was so pleased that had had made the effort. Did I feel like going that morning? No. Did I want to stay at home and rest? Yes. The only thing that exceeds our being glad that we did, is the fact that our children now look back on the images we had taken with absolute fascination, pleasure and a love that we had these images of them taken. That is what truly makes us glad we had these shoots.

So enough about my experience has a new mum and here’s to some guidance behind the scene of a newborn session. 

So when you get to the studio… 

Apart from feeding your baby, I can take care of ensuring your child is comfortable, warm and content so that they sleep well for the shoot. And… believe me I do not get offended if you feel sleepy, I simply want you to have your hot drink and take time to relax and recharge whilst we capture the images.

Now you are now probably wondering why we need the baby to be asleep during the session…

In an ideal world a baby will be fast asleep from the moment you arrive till you leave, however this never happens so please don’t think that it will. Having a sleeping baby makes a session go a little faster as baby can be moved a little easier when they are still and sleepy. 

Whether your baby is awake or asleep on arrival, I will ask you to undress him or her down to their nappy and then wrap them up in their blanket and just give them cuddles. If baby then falls asleep I start photos on my bean bag first. But if baby is awake please don’t panic, I have other ideas that helps them get to sleep.

Photographing babies with no nappies can look beautiful in photos but behind the scenes mess can and usually does happen. I always say, “it’s not a newborn shoot If I don’t get peed or pooed on at least once” 

Now that your baby is asleep (or very sleepy) and ready, the session begins!

Once your baby is calm and comfy, I will start posing them and snapping away. I always try to get a few different shots (from differing angles and distances) on a variety of setups with a different array of colours and backdrops.

If you are here, chances are that you have already scrolled through some newborn images and probably have some favourites… and you are wondering if we can take a similar photo with your little one.

The answer is… your baby decides and will let us know!

Every baby is different, and some poses simply do not suit some babies, and this is based on several factors such as your babies age, frame and indeed their personality.

Professional newborn photographers use what’s called a “baby led” workflow: in other words, we adapt our work to the baby at any single point in time.

We obviously start the session with a plan, which is based on what we know works with babies, but we must be ready to “read” the baby and change our plans in real time.

Have you ever seen a photo of a little cutie asleep in a basket… or bucket? 

Well, no matter what our plans may be, we will have to wait until the baby is completely relaxed before attempting a pose such as this. So if I realise the baby is asleep but their muscles are somehow tense… I might decide to wait a little longer before moving to this setup.

With a little help…

Throughout the session I may need a little bit of help from one of you to sit close to the baby if I cannot be close enough to be able to capture the shot. At no point would I ever leave your baby unattended, or without being supported in a safe place and in sight. Baby safety takes priority over any image captured. 

If this is your first baby, this maybe the first time you will be looking into a family photo shoot.

I know from experience that – at this point – your first thought might be “I don’t want to be in the photos! I don’t like the way I look in photos”.

This is natural and please do not stress about it: first, it is my job to ensure the session is a pleasant and relaxing experience for everyone.

Additionally, there are always ways to show that you were indeed there so that your child can see you with them as they grow.

This can simply (but effectively and artistically be) involving your hands and arms in an image, or a cuddle holding your baby in your arms.

Big brothers and sisters are of course invited to join in the session if you wish. They can come for the whole time or join halfway through the session. I can even photograph your baby on their own and then photograph their brother/sister on their own and merge the images together if this makes for a more rounded image of them together.

The main reason that I sometimes suggest this option, is that an older sibling can move fast. I would hate for them to move when holding a newborn baby. Again, baby safety always comes first, so in some instances, this is a perfect solution.  

If I had to tell you what are the two sentences I hear more often in the studio, I would probably say “I can’t wait to see the photos!!!” and “It’s too hard to choose, we want them all!”

Since I know how hard it is to wait for your images, I always try to schedule your viewing and ordering appointment within 2 weeks from your shoot date.

Your viewing appointment is just as important as the session, because this is where your photos become “real”: we will take all the time you need to look over your gallery and personalised slideshow to enable you to decide which products and packages suit you best.

Whether you love the idea of a memory box, want prints for grandparents or simply some digital files, I will help you find the perfect products that your family will treasure forever.

Have questions about my newborn sessions? I would love to chat!

I have photographed over 200 babies so whatever doubts, apprehension or questions you might have… I am here to help!

Email hello@lisascottphotography.com or call 07903 733270, I can’t wait to learn more about you and your baby.

Ideas For A Cakesmash Birthday? Is your Baby about to turn one? Do you want to do a party? Have all the mess to clean up after? Or have you thought about doing a cakesmash for you little person?

The only thing you need to do is inform me what colours or ideas you have. I will arrange the whole set design and get the cake. Our cakes can be made gluten free or if you have other diet requests this can be sorted. Cakes included are Naked Cake (like the photos you see)  Believe if or not, not every child likes the sweeter taste of a cake – Yes this has been know. So I have a back up plan of fruit just in case, this can be added around the edge of the cake to help your little one eat something they know and like.

After the cakesmash, the bath is then brought out and clean up can begins. They can have a splash around and then get dry. At the very end when everything is cleaned away, there is time for a few portrait photos of them. If you wish as a family to have a few photos as well at this milestone you are more than welcome.

Click above to find out more information.

Some little people like it when older siblings get in on the action. If you have other children and want them to join in bring them along.

If this is something you wish to have the session is £65.00 which includes an amazing cake. If baby doesn’t completely squash it into the floor you are welcome to take it home. (Cut around it and eat the middle – too good to waste) I need at least 10 days to arrange and sort your session out and of course book the cake lady.

Drop me a message today to arrange your cake. Lots of different backdrops available. See below of some ideas – but remember if you have your own style this can be arranged.

FOR BACKDROP IDEAS CLICK HERE:

Want to see different ideas on cake, have a little look here at Queen of Tarts.

Lisa Scott Photography specialises in newborn, baby, and Cake Smash photography.

Want to know more about my Cake Smash & Splash photoshoots? Head over HERE

Give me a call. Mobile is 07903733270 or studio number 01788 840302.

What’s not to enjoy?

Cake, destruction, and attention? Never mind baby, we want a Cake Smash! 

Cake Smashes are such a lovely way to celebrate your baby’s first birthday.

They are perfect for capturing your little one’s personality – whether they are cheeky and forward or shy and gentle – you really see who they are in their images.

As the name suggests, it is a photography session where your baby smashes up their birthday cake! Usually incorporating a portrait session before the messiness begins, or after the bathsplash.

They are fantastic for all involved, with an end result of beautiful, fun images to look back on fondly for years to come.

Whether your baby is gregarious and outgoing or more reserved, we find they all generally enjoy a Cake Smash.

While it is fab to have a baby in the studio who plays to the camera and enthusiastically bashes away at the cake, it is also so cute to capture the little ones who are a bit more reticent too.

Nine times out of 10, even the little ones who were unsure at first, really enjoy themselves once they have warmed up a bit and realise how much fun it is having.

Especially if Mum, Dad or a bigger sibling, helps them smash their cake up too!

Your photographer will do their very best to put your baby at ease, offering encouragement and going at their pace. Taking breaks if needed and just going with the flow.

Rest assured, it’s not a problem if your little one doesn’t show much interest in the cake bashing. Images taken of them looking solemnly at it are still beautiful! It is all about a portrait of your baby that shows their character. And if your baby is ‘too cool to smash’, that will be reflected beautifully in their images.

This is totally fine too! Messy babies are happy babies. It is a sensory experience and smashing, bashing and smearing the cake is welcomed. In fact, it is positively encouraged.

If you have booked a Cake Smash session, it is a really good idea to let your little one loose with some cupcakes a few times beforehand.

Pop them in their highchair, with a wooden spoon and encourage them to dig in. Then they won’t be so taken aback when they are given a spoon and have a cake placed in front of them at their Cake Smash session.

It is also a great idea to bring some of their favourite treats or snacks. If they are not keen on the cake, they can be hidden in the icing, to encourage them to break the cake up!

And remember…….

There is no right or wrong way for a Cake Smash session to go! Whether your baby gets fully stuck in or looks at the cake like it is an alien and needs help from mum to bash it up – both make fun, beautiful images. And that is what we want to achieve.

Lisa Scott Photography specialises in newborn, baby, and Cake Smash photography.

Want to know more about my Cake Smash & Splash photoshoots? Head over HERE

Give me a call. Mobile is 07903733270 or studio number 01788 840302.

If you look through social media these days, there are so many photos of newborn babies looking adorable and cute.

However, some newborn photos can look very similar with the poses and if the same colours were used could you tell your baby apart from others?

So, my question is “How can we make your newborn images truly yours?”

I love asking parents to bring little keepsakes or items with a particular meaning, which is why whenever I get a new booking, I ask mum and dad if they have a hobby or interest.

Over the years I have worked with horse lovers, Rugby fans and much more! If you ever wondered if a Rugby ball can look great on camera… it can (but of course… not as cute as the baby)!

At times, however I get asked if parents can bring something more personal.

A recent session I did was for a newborn baby to have a photo taken with his great grandad’s hat.

This item was such a personal item, with an incredible emotional value not only to the parents but for their family.

On the day of the session I explained about putting baby into the hat and the hat being held by dad.

Now for me to do this shot and to keep baby safe I wouldn’t dream of actually putting the baby into the hat but photographing two different set ups and then merging them together.

I decided to record a little video to show you how, sometimes, a little magic is required to create photographs your family will love and treasure forever.

Lisa Scott Photography specialises in newborn, maternity and baby photography for families around Rugby, Coventry, Daventry, Southam.

If you are thinking about a newborn baby photoshoot you can read more here 

Give me a call. Mobile is 07903733270 or studio number 01788 840302.

Wanting to know more about different Newborn Session packages and whats on offer. The Newborn Session Package – Ultimate Print Collection is a popular collection for those who want to show off their prints. Your receive all your digital files from your session and a collection of different size mounted prints. Within the collection you will get:

3 x Mounted 12 x 10 prints

2 x Mounted 10 x 8 Prints

3 x Mounted 8 x 6 Prints

All arriving in 3 bespoke boxes.

There are a few different choices for Newborn Session Packages – Ultimate Print Collection being so popular I decided to show off some recent products. Instead of just reading about them you can see the products you get.

8 bespoke prints of your choice in small, medium & large. This collection can be split down and given to parents, friends and family for birthday presents or to show you family off.

Lisa Scott is a Newborn photographer and aims to create memories that will last a lifetime. Having images printed to go on the wall is something of a must. One piece that you see every time you pass it. Sometimes having a USB with images on, or photos on your phone is not the most ideal way to show off your images.

Newborn Session Package – Ultimate Print Collection

To view more work, please visit the newborn gallery Or to book a session please visit the Contact Page.