5 Memorable Ways to Celebrate Your Baby’s First Birthday Without a Party

Your baby’s first birthday is a huge milestone—both for them and for you. It’s a chance to celebrate an incredible year of growth, learning, and love. But here’s the thing: celebrating doesn’t mean you have to plan an elaborate party or invite dozens of people. In fact, some of the most meaningful first-birthday memories are made in small, intimate ways that focus on connection, fun, and capturing the moment.

If the thought of planning a big bash feels overwhelming (or just not your style), don’t worry! In this blog, we’re sharing  5 creative and memorable ways to celebrate your baby’s big day without the stress of a party. Whether you’re looking for a quiet family activity, a way to create lasting keepsakes, or even a special cake smash session, we’ve got you covered.

Not only will you save time and money, but you’ll also ensure that the focus stays on what matters most: making the day truly special for your little one. So, grab a cuppa, settle in, and let’s explore these simple yet heartfelt ideas to mark this magical milestone in your baby’s life!

Cake Smash and Splash Session

A cake smash photoshoot is a wonderfully fun and memorable way to celebrate your baby’s first birthday. This playful tradition captures the joy of your little one diving into a cake, creating candid moments full of giggles, messy fingers, and pure delight.

Not only does a cake smash create stunning photos you’ll treasure forever, but it’s also an opportunity to celebrate this major milestone in a unique and personal way. We love carrying out cake smash sessions within our gorgeous studio in Larbert, Falkirk and would love to capture your special memories. You can see more details HERE

Plus, cake smash sessions are stress-free—you leave the setup, props, and clean-up to professionals. Add a theme or special touches to reflect your baby’s personality, making it even more meaningful. This experience doesn’t just create adorable memories—it’s a celebration of your baby’s growth, and one you’ll cherish for years to come!

Plant a Tree

Planting a tree or creating a garden spot to celebrate your baby’s first birthday is a beautiful and lasting way to honour this milestone. Unlike a party that lasts a few hours, this living tribute grows alongside your child, symbolizing their journey through life. It’s a meaningful activity that reflects growth, resilience, and the love you’ve nurtured over the past year.

In Falkirk’s climate, you can choose a tree or plant that thrives locally, such as a cherry blossom or fruit tree, ensuring it becomes a cherished part of your home or garden. Involving older siblings or family members makes it a bonding activity, turning the moment into a cherished family tradition.

To make it even more special, add a small plaque or marker with your baby’s name and birthdate. It’s a thoughtful keepsake that transforms a simple gesture into a lasting memory for generations.

Creating a time capsule for your baby’s first birthday is a heartfelt and timeless way to celebrate this milestone. It’s a keepsake that not only captures the magic of their first year but also offers your child a glimpse into their beginnings when they’re older. Imagine the joy on their face when they open it years later, uncovering a treasure trove of memories curated with love.

Fill the capsule with meaningful items like milestone photos, a letter from you, a favourite small toy, and even a local Falkirk newspaper to capture the day’s essence. You could also include mementos like their first birthday card or artwork. Personalize it further by sourcing unique keepsakes from Falkirk’s markets or independent stores.

Seal the capsule and set a date for its opening—perhaps their 18th birthday—making it an enduring celebration of their growth and your love through the years.

A special day out

A special day out is a wonderful way to celebrate your baby’s first birthday in Falkirk. It’s all about spending quality family time together and creating joyful memories in a new setting. Falkirk offers fantastic baby-friendly attractions, like the iconic Falkirk Wheel, where you can enjoy the scenic views and take a relaxing boat ride. Other great locations are Five Sisters Zoo or Safari Park, 

This celebration is simple, stress-free, and focused on what truly matters: your baby’s happiness. Exploring together allows you to bond as a family while soaking in the milestone moment. Don’t forget to capture candid photos throughout the day—whether it’s your baby’s wide-eyed wonder at animals or their giggles during playtime. These snapshots will become cherished memories, and the day itself will be a celebration filled with love and laughter.

Creating a first birthday memory book or memory board is a meaningful way to celebrate your baby’s first year. It’s a creative project that allows you to reflect on all the precious moments, from their first smile to their first steps. By gathering photos, hospital bands, cards, and other keepsakes, you’ll preserve the memories that made this year unforgettable.

Add personal touches by writing captions or notes about your baby’s milestones, favourite toys, and special family moments. These heartfelt details make the scrapbook a one-of-a-kind keepsake that you’ll treasure forever—and one day, your child will too.

For supplies, check out Hobbycraft in Falkirk, where you’ll find everything from decorative paper to stickers and tools to make your scrapbook shine. Whether it’s displayed at home or tucked away for safekeeping, this project is a celebration of love, growth, and the journey of your baby’s incredible first year.

Your baby’s first birthday is such a special milestone, and celebrating it doesn’t have to involve a big party to make it meaningful. Whether it’s a playful cake smash, a quiet family outing, or creating lasting keepsakes like a scrapbook or time capsule, these ideas focus on what truly matters: spending quality time together as a family and capturing memories you’ll cherish forever.

The best part? These activities are stress-free, heartfelt, and designed to help you celebrate in a way that feels personal to your family. Every moment you create now will be something to look back on with joy, knowing it was filled with love and connection.

 Ready to make your baby’s first birthday unforgettable? Let’s get started! Get in touch and we can start planning your 1st birthday Cake Smash and Splash Session

winter wonderland

The festive season is a time of joy, togetherness, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. As a portrait photographer, one of the most rewarding aspects of my job is helping families capture these special moments. Our Winter Wonderland sessions are a fantastic way to do just that. Not only do these sessions provide you with cherished keepsakes, but they also offer a unique and personal gift option for friends and family. Let’s explore the magic of Christmas mini sessions and how you can turn these beautiful images into the perfect presents.

WHAT ARE WINTER WONDERLAND SESSIONS?

Our Winter Wonderland sessions are shorter, more focused photography sessions that usually last 20 minutes. These sessions are designed to capture the essence of the Christmas season, featuring festive backdrops, props, and outfits. My aim is to create high-quality, Christmas-themed photos that can be cherished for years to come.  I have lots of clients visiting during the day using the same set and props which means I can keep the cost low for these sessions

THE PERFECT GIFT

• FOR GRANDPARENTS

Imagine the joy on a grandparent’s face when they unwrap a beautifully framed photo of their grandchildren in adorable Christmas outfits. It’s a gift that speaks volumes, capturing the essence of family and the spirit of the season.

• FOR FRIENDS

Customized photo calendars or photo books make for a thoughtful and personal gift. Each month can feature a different image from your mini session, bringing a smile to your friends’ faces all year long.

• FOR YOUR PARTNER

A canvas print of a special moment captured during the mini session can be a romantic and heartfelt gift. It’s a daily reminder of your love and the beautiful memories you’ve created together.

• FOR EXTENDED FAMILY

Photo cards are a classic yet evergreen gift option. Personalise your greetings with a festive family portrait, and you’ve got a card that will be cherished long after the holidays are over.

• KEEPSAKES FOR YOURSELF

While gifting is a significant aspect of the holiday season, let’s not forget the importance of keepsakes for yourself. A beautifully crafted photo album or a framed picture on your desk serves as a timeless reminder of this special time in your life.

WHY BOOK A CHRISTMAS MINI SESSION?

1. Affordable: Mini sessions are generally more budget-friendly than full-length portrait sessions.
2. Time-Efficient: With a shorter duration, these sessions are easier to fit into your busy schedule.
3. High-Quality: Despite being shorter, the focus and preparation that go into mini sessions ensure high-quality results.
4. Fun and Festive: With Christmas-themed props and backdrops, these sessions are a fun activity for the whole family.

BOOKING

If you want to get a head start on gifting as well as capturing some beautiful memories for yourself, Then click HERE and see more details of our winter wonderland experience and to book your slot. 

pregnancy

Pregnancy is an incredible journey full of ups and downs. And although 9 months can seem like a very long time, I promise you it flies by in the blink of an eye.  As a newborn and maternity photographer, I've seen many families who regret not documenting their pregnancy journey. I’ve been working with pregnant women and new mums for over 12 years, and all of them say similar things when they come into my studio for their newborn session; ‘I miss my bump’ or ‘my pregnancy went by so quickly’. 

There are a couple of ways you can make sure that you always have special reminders of this beautiful time in your life.

Firstly, take photographs, lots and lots of photographs!  If you want something more than selfies or phone snaps, I offer bespoke maternity portraits from my studio in Larbert, Falkirk. You can find out more about those here 

I also highly recommend keeping a pregnancy journal. A pregnancy journal is a great way to capture and preserve all the special moments, thoughts, and feelings during this magical time. Writing down your experiences can help you look back on your pregnancy with fond memories and help you connect with your baby in a meaningful way. It’s also a beautiful way to share this special time once your baby is older.

pregnancy journal

Here are some suggestions for what you can write in your pregnancy journal:

1. Thoughts and feelings - Write about your thoughts, feelings, and emotions throughout your pregnancy. Jot down your initial reactions when you found out you were pregnant, your fears, your hopes, and your dreams for your baby.

2. Milestones - Record significant milestones like the first time you felt your baby move, the first time you heard their heartbeat, and the first ultrasound.

3. Food cravings - Pregnancy comes with some strange and often hilarious food cravings. Write them down and look back on them with a smile.

4. Body changes - Write about how your body is changing, how you're adapting, and how you're feeling about the changes.

5. Baby names - Create a list of potential baby names and their meanings. Document how you chose the name for your baby.

maternity photography
 

As well as writing in your journal, you can also keep mementoes in your pregnancy journal to make it even more special. Here are some ideas:

1. Ultrasound photos - You can keep copies of your ultrasound photos in the pages of your journal.  Did you know ultrasounds fade over time, so take a picture with your phone and have it printed for your journal

2. Belly photos - Take photos of your growing belly throughout your pregnancy and include them in your journal.  If you get professional maternity portraits taken, keep them in your journal too. Don't forget to check out examples of our Maternity Photography HERE 

3. Baby shower invitations - Keep the invitations and thank you cards from your baby shower to remember the day.  Add photos from your baby shower too, including all the fun games 

4. Baby goodies- Keep pictures of the first items you buy for your baby, your pregnancy tests, pictures of you assembling and decorating the nursery, even pictures of our pram shopping.

5. Letters to your baby - Write letters to your baby throughout your pregnancy and include them in your journal. These letters will be a cherished gift for your child when they're older.

Keeping a pregnancy journal is a wonderful way to document your pregnancy journey and create a lasting memory for you and your baby. As a newborn photographer, I know how precious these memories are so I’ve made it super easy for you with my printable pregnancy journal, which you’ll find HERE

As a family photographer based in Larbert, Falkirk, I know that the Easter school holidays are a wonderful time for families to spend quality time together and make memories that will last a lifetime. With spring in full bloom, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy outdoors, and as a photographer, I'm always on the lookout for the best photo opportunities to capture those precious moments. Here are some typical family activities to do during the Easter school holidays and the best photo opportunities that come with them.

easter egg hunt

farm visits

nature walks

easter crafts

family baking

easter egg hunt download

family photofanily photo shoot

For those of you looking to give a unique and lasting gift this year, consider the gift of photography. Capturing memories through photographs is a timeless and personal way to show your love and appreciation. Here are a few gift ideas to help you celebrate the special women in your life.

1. A Family Photo Shoot: Give the gift of a family photo shoot, where you can capture precious memories with mum and the rest of the family.  As an experienced family photographer, I can help you create stunning images that you'll cherish forever. We have gift vouchers available online which are ready to purchase, gift and print making it super easy for you - You can buy yours HERE
2. A Personalised Photo Book: Create a personalised photo book filled with your favourite memories of the mum in your life. Choose pictures that show her love, kindness, and the fun moments you've shared together.
3. A piece of wall art: Give your mum something for the wall featuring a special moment or family photo.  If you’ve had a session with me you can always order wall art from those sessions. She'll love having a beautiful piece of art to display in her home that celebrates her family.
4. A Photo Keepsake Box: Give the mum in your life a photo keepsake box filled with her favourite memories. She can use it to store cherished mementoes and photographs.  Start off her collection with some of your favourite family memories.

In addition to photography, there are other wonderful gifts that are sure to put a smile on any mother's face. Here are a few ideas to consider:

1. A Spa Day: Give mum the gift of relaxation with a spa day. Book a massage or facial for her, or buy her a spa kit so she can pamper herself at home.  We have some gorgeous spas and salons locally - try [mention or link to local salons]
2. A Bouquet of Flowers: Flowers are a popular choice for a reason - flowers are a beautiful way to brighten your mum's day and remind her how loved she is.  We have some super talented florists locally in [location.  Again recommend local florists, tag and link to them]
3. A Personalised Jewellery Piece: Give mum a personalised piece of jewellery, such as a necklace or bracelet, with her children's names or birthstones. She'll treasure this sentimental keepsake for years to come.  

No matter what you choose, the most important thing is to let your mum know just how much she means to you. Whether you give a gift of photography, a spa day, or a bouquet of flowers, she'll appreciate the love and thoughtfulness you put into her special day.

If you don't already please pop on over to Facebook or Instagram and give us a follow and you can also sign upto our VIP LIST where you can be kept upto date with offers and promotions etc. 

Love and Hugs

Nicole x

Pregnancy Cravings and What they Might Mean

One of the strangest things about being pregnant has got to be the cravings.  We’ve all heard crazy stories about women eating coal or sponges - but thankful these types of cravings aren’t too common.  Usually, pregnant women crave much more mundane foods.  But there is a theory that craving certain items can indicate a lack of a specific vitamin or mineral.  So just for fun, lets have a look at some pregnancy cravings and what they might mean.

Cravings can kick in right at the beginning of pregnancy - anytime between 2 and 12 weeks and it’s thought they are caused by hormonal changes or a heightened sense of taste and smell.

Non-Food Pregnancy Cravings

Some nutritionists think that craving things like ice, soil or clay (a condition known as pica) are linked to an iron or zinc deficiency.  However, there is not enough research about this to know if this is true or not.  If you are craving non-food substance during your pregnancy, you must seek advice from your midwife or doctor.

Chocolate

Some practitioners believe that craving chocolate is a sign of a magnesium deficiency.  While chocolate is inherently dangerous, eating too much of it is definitely not a good idea for your health!  Try eating foods high in magnesium and see if this helps your cravings.  Foods such as whole grains, nuts, seeds and spinach are all high in magnesium

Meat

I know a lifelong vegetarian who began to crave steak during her pregnancy!  It seems like it could be the body craving protein to ‘build a baby’ but is it really that simple!  Surely if our bodies were so good at craving what we needed, we’d all be fit and healthy, living of broccoli and steamed rice!

Pickles

Pickles are a really common pregnancy craving, and as they are high in sodium, you might think that’s what your body needs.  Whilst high-sodium foods aren’t dangerous in moderation, you don’t want to be consuming them in vast quantities.  Drink plenty of water if this is your craving and choose low-sodium brands where possible.

There is no scientific evidence to support the theory that your pregnancy cravings mean anything but its fun to wonder why we have them.  I’d love to hear about your weird and wonderful pregnancy cravings - comment below.

I would love to capture your pregnancy memories - get in touch or follow us on Facebook or Instagram to secure your bump session 

toy storage hacks

Toy Storage Tips

This is the Toy Storage Tips blog you need to save right now!  In the next few weeks your home will likely look like an aisle at Smyths and you’ll wonder where on earth you’re going to store all of the new toys.

As a baby photographer, I work with tons of families who have this issue.  When I work with you to create family portraits, we spend some time discussing your home decor and your interior style.  This is so I can help you choose backdrops, props and sets that will fit beautifully in your home.  It also helps me to advise you on wall art and products.  My January portrait clients, ALWAYS make comments about how many toys are currently in their homes and some of my clients have really genius storage solutions!  I know you’re going to love all of these toy storage ideas too for your own homes.

• The number 1 tip that I learned a while ago is to make way for new toys in December!  Having a good sort out can make all of the difference when it comes to finding room for all of the new toys at the end of the month.  At this time of year charity shops and toy banks will be really grateful for clean toys and games in decent condition.  It’s also the one time of year when your children won’t want to cling onto that toy that haven’t played with for months, as they are easily persuaded to make room for the toys Santa will bring.  After all he won’t be able to leave any toys if he sees there no room, will he!? Check our Families in Need Falkirk if you want to donate your toys

• My next favourite tip is to buy storage that doubles up as furniture.  If you don’t have a playroom where you can just close the door on any mess, having toys and games hidden in plain sight is essential.  Furniture items like benches where the seat lifts to reveal storage are brilliant for builder toys.  And coffee tables with a lifting top are perfect for board games and books.

• Another handy tip is baskets! I have got to love a basket for storage and also to pose a newborn baby in.. Baskets are brilliant for a super-quick tidy up - they are so easy to chuck everything in and it’s something the kids can help with - or even do on their own.  Plus baskets are available in so many different styles and shapes that you will always find something that suits your home and won’t look out of place in your living room.

Some quick wins

• Magnetic knife holder to store toy cars - A great way to store toy cars and get them off the floor
• Modern peg board to store craft supplies - a great way to store craft supplies and have them all available for the children to reach and be able to tidy away themselves 
• Under bed storage - Great extra storage place to get they toys all stored away out of sight. 
• Colour coded toy storage cart - the perfect way to store toys, colour coded and on wheels so this can be brought out and then stored away when not in use.
• Clear Plastic Stackable tubs - a great way to stack toys up and children can see what's inside and decide what they want to play with. 

If you love how your home looks when it’s decluttered, you’ll love my range of contemporary wall art.  The clean lines and slim profiles will look great in your home and are so easy to clean too.  There’s no better feeling than having your beautiful family portraits displayed on the wall - you can even convince yourself that your little angels couldn’t possibly be responsible for the mess you’re currently tidying away!

Previously had a session with us? and want some gorgeous wall art for your walls then get in touch and we can discuss options - Or if you haven't has a professional portrait session with us then get in touch so that we can get you all booked in for a session at our gorgeous photography studio in Larbert, Falkirk and create some images you can treasure forever.

If you don't already please follow us on Facebook and Instagram

‘That’s a great camera, no wonder your pictures are so good’

newborn photos

Now there is no denying that the right equipment can make a huge difference to the quality of your images, but today, I’m here to bust this myth!

It’s true to say that investing in the right equipment does help me enormously to carry out my job as a newborn photographer to the best of my ability.  That said, the glass (or the lens) that’s on the camera is probably more important than the actual camera body.  Lenses can often be two or three times the cost of the camera itself.  I need to be continually investing in equipment such as lenses to be able to give you the very best service possible.

However, you can have the best camera and lenses in the world and still only produce mediocre photography.  The most important piece of kit is actually behind the camera!  My brain, my creativity and my ability to put into practice all of the training I’ve invested in is what makes the difference between a mediocre picture and a great portrait.

Firstly I have to understand the ‘basics’ of photography.  Anyone can get lucky with an image and snap the perfect portrait.  But producing high-quality, wall-worthy work consistently, well, that requires a really good understanding of photography.

maternty

Light is the most important factor and is the element that ‘makes’ the image.  Without light, we have no images.  Understanding how to control light in the studio and how to make it work in my favour outdoors is essential to creating beautiful portraits for you.  Light can shape and flatter or it can be harsh and unforgiving.  For example, I want the softest light to gently illuminate your newborn to give us stunning heirloom images that are timeless.  I need to create this, it doesn’t happen by accident and it certainly isn’t controlled by the camera I use.

Next up is focus.  I need to be able to produce images that are clearly in focus.  The model of camera I use can make this task slightly easier but when I’m working with tiny newborns, a few millimetres can make the difference between a face in focus or not!  This is something you might not notice so much on the small screen of a phone camera but as soon as I want to create you a large piece of wall art, the focus has to be pin sharp!  I also need to control the area that’s out of focus.  This is called the depth of field.  It’s a more complex version of ‘portrait’ mode on your phone camera

newborn photographer falkirk

The third element I have to master as a photographer is exposure.  In simple terms, this is the amount of time light is exposed to the camera's sensor.  The reality is I have to decide how long I want the shutter open (a longer time will affect my focus), how wide I want the opening to be that the light shines through and finally how sensitive to light I want the camera sensor to be.  Although this sounds complex, it does become second nature - a little bit like learning to drive a car. 

So, all of this is something I’ve dedicated time and money to learning - all before I start thinking about creativity.  Designing sets, choosing wardrobe and prop items, thinking about the composition of my images, learning posing techniques - it’s an endless list that I’m constantly investing in and developing.

So, in short, yes, my camera is pretty good but a bit like James Martin’s amazing outdoor kitchen it won’t produce stunning results by itself! Let me use my skills to capture all the special memories of your family... Get in touch to have a chat and see what i can do for you. 

Love and Hugs

Nicole x

family

newborn photography

I thought it was a great time to pull together some September baby fun facts.  Feel free to share them with any mums who are due this September:

September Birthstone

The birthstone for September is the sapphire, which symbolises purity and wisdom.  Sapphires are also thought to ease pain and reduce stress - perhaps you should take one into the delivery room with you!

September Star Sign

Your baby will either be a Virgo (August 24 - September) or a Libra (September 23 - October 23)

September Birthflower

The birth flowers for September are the Aster and the Morning Glory.  Asters are symbols of love and Morning Glories are symbols of affection

September Baby Fun Facts

Studies suggest that September babies excel at school - could this be related to the fact they’re the oldest in their school year.

September babies also excel in sports - again this could be related to the fact they’re the oldest, and therefore the strongest, in their school year.

September babies are statistically more likely to live to be 100 than babies born in other months!

Celebrities with September birthdays include Beyonce, will Smith, Keanu Reeves and Prince Harry. 

September Baby Names

• September (well, duh?)
• Sapphire (September's birthstone)
• Indigo (representing the dark blue of a sapphire)
• Aster (September's birth flower)
• Autumn (it is technically the start of autumn, right?)
• Virgo (the month's main star sign)
• Libra (the month's other star sign)
• Amber (the colour of autumn)
• Hazel (another autumnal colour)
• Iris (a flower in season during September)
• Delphie (short for delphinium, another flower in season during September)
• Equinox (the autumn equinox takes place in late September)
• Knox (short for Equinox)
• Medini (a Welsh name meaning 'born in September')
• Rose (also a flower in season during the month)

If your baby is due in September, you’ll want to make sure you already have their newborn portrait session booked before they arrive.  September is my busiest month of the year!  Find out more about my newborn portrait sessions here

newborn photographer falkirk

You’ve been waiting for what seems like forever, but finally you’re in your third trimester and your September baby’s arrival is a few short weeks away – How exciting…

Wait, what!?  All of a sudden you feel like you’re running out of time to be prepared and that nesting instinct is well and truly kicking in!

What’s left to do in your third trimester?

• Firstly, if you haven’t packed your hospital bag yet, you definitely need to have that ready now.
• It’s sensible to have a dry run of installing the baby seat in the car.  When it’s time to bring your baby home, you don’t want to be reading all the instructions.  It’s also a good idea to store the seat in the car from now!
• Stock the freezer.  You are not going to feel like cooking, not to mention have the time, once you bring baby home.  It makes sense to stock up your freezer with pre-portioned meals to last you for at least a couple of weeks after baby arrives.
• Assemble your pram, practice folding it and getting it in the car
• Buy a sling.  You’ll probably use a sling much more than you expect - they’re especially useful in the first few weeks.
• Book a pamper session or mini moon.  This is your last chance to be a couple before your baby arrives so take full advantage.  Even if it’s only to book yourself a pampering session at a salon.
• Get a haircut.  It’s harder than you think to have your haircut once you have a baby you needs you 24/7.  Book your trim for just before your due date and that should give you enough time to get into some sort of routine before your next trim is due!
• Finish work.  Tying up all of your loose ends at work is very satisfying - especially when you know you won’t be back for at least a few months.  But it can also be stressful so ask for help at work if you need it.
• Organise sleeping arrangements.  Whether you’ve chosen a moses basket, a next to me or you’re going to co-sleep, having your sleeping arrangement sorted for when you bring your baby home is vital.
• Prepare for your Health Visitor appointment.  Many new mums don’t realise your health visitor now arranges to call to your home to meet you before your baby is born.  They’ll want to have a look at where baby will be sleeping and basically support you to ensure you have everything ready
• Finalise your birth plan.  Of course, you can’t be guaranteed the birth that you hope for, but having a birth plan can help you to stay focused during your labour.
• If you want to treasure this important time and your journey into motherhood then remember and book in a Maternity Photography Session with us – we promise you will feel amazing and have such a great experience.
• Last but no means least - Book your Newborn Portraits!  If you haven’t done this yet, don’t wait until your baby arrives as I may be fully booked and unable to accommodate you.  Find out how to book your newborn portrait session here.

I hope my list has helped you to tick off the final few ‘to-do’s’ before you baby arrives.  Good luck for the imminent arrival of your baby! 

Maternity photography falkirk

If you are wondering if you really NEED newborn portraits, then the answer is no.  It’s not an essential purchase like your baby car seat or your pram. Here are all of the reasons my clients tell me they are so grateful they made the decision to have newborn portraits.

• You really do forget how tiny your baby was.  All of those tiny features change so quickly without you really noticing.  Having newborn portraits commits those features to your memory for ever.

• My skills and equipment will give you portraits that are a world away from the ones you’ll be able to capture on your phone or camera.  Baby skin is notoriously difficult to capture, it usually has red undertones or your baby may be slightly jaundiced.  Professional photography can even this out to give a true reflection of your baby

• If you’ve ever tried to take a nice, posed photo of your toddler, and failed miserably, try adding in a newborn.  Getting beautiful sibling portraits is one of the best reasons to have professional newborn photography

• You can be in the images.  Even if you don’t feel you’re looking like the best version of you, professional photography and lighting makes a world of difference.  Having your whole family in one beautiful portrait is priceless

• You are documenting your family in the most amazing way possible.  It’s not only you that will cherish your newborn portraits, your children and future generations will too.

• You have access to professional quality wall art products via me.  I have a wide range of products including prints and canvases to display your final images beautifully.  Make your portraits a part of your home decor.

• One of the best parts about welcoming a new baby into the family is showing them off.  Professional portraits will show family and friends far and wide, exactly how beautiful and perfect your baby is.  This is particularly lovely for those who have family living further away who won’t get a chance to see your baby in-person very often.

• In the whirlwind of having a baby, parents love the time they spend in my studio - it’s often the first time they have had a few hours to sit back and just immerse themselves in the amazing feeling of being a family.  It’s a beautiful experience and so many of my clients are surprised at how much they enjoy their session

• The newborn phase is the most beautiful, exhilarating time as a parent.  Capturing professional portraits during this phase always makes the memories flood back every time you see the images.

If you need anymore reasons, have a read through these reviews from parents who have recently visited me for their newborn portraits and get in touch to secure your slot 

Luke O'Hanlon  recommends J'adore Photography.· 

"We can’t thank Nicole enough for our newborn photoshoot, from the booking right the way to choosing the finished products her service has been 5 star. During the photoshoot Nicole made us feel so at ease and we felt so comfortable with her looking after our baby during the shoot, she makes you feel so welcome and is just brilliant with babies. Her professionalism and dedication shines throughout and we honestly couldn’t recommend her enough. She captured our baby girl so well, when it come to the viewing there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. If your looking for a photographer for your newborn then look no further then J’Adore. Thank you again Nicole !"

Stacey McRoberts  recommends J'adore Photography.

Nicole is absolutely amazing with kids, an absolute natural. She made us feel so at ease the full photoshoot, Nate loved her, as did we. The memories she captured for us are amazing. Cannot wait for his next one.xx

newborn baby photography

MARCH 2022 - Fairy Experience WINNER

Well our judges have been super busy voting and had a very hard time agreeing on a winner for our March 2022 Fairy Experience Photography Event. They have now decided on a winner.

Without further delay it gives me great pleasure to announce the winning fairy from our Scottish Fairy Experience held in March 2022

We would like to thank everyone that took part over the few days, we hope you and your children enjoyed it as much as us...  It was lovely to meet all of you and capture lots of gorgeous images for you to treasure for a lifetime

Congratulations to our gorgeous winning fairy

march 22 winner

Our winner will receive a stunning frame worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We have had lots of requests for more fairy experience dates we will be looking to open some more dates soon so please sign up to our waiting list HERE to be notified when these dates are released. 

Thanks
 

Nicole x

falkirk wonderland

Falkirk in Wonderland

This Easter, we’re going down the rabbit hole as Falkirk Town Centre turns into Wonderland. We’re opening our Mad Hatter’s Tea Party craft events next to The Steeple – but that’s not all! We’ve got a fantastic program of events set over two weekends. Let’s get the whole town involved.

Mad Hatter's Tea Party - 8th, 9th, 10th, 14th, 15th, 16th April

White Rabbit Town Centre Trail

Storytime with the Mad Hatter - First Session from 12pm – 9th and 16th Apri

Big Bunny Petting Zoo - From 11am – 3pm – 8th and 15th April

CLICK HERE for more details and online booking. 

library

Falkirk Library

Hop into Falkirk’s libraries this April for spring school holiday fun!

Take a look below for storytelling, craft sessions and Lego builds. Any time your family is in the library you can also try our Spring Search. Track down the bunnies hiding in the library and solve the clues for a chance to win a library goodybag!

Weekly Bookbug sessions for under 4s continue throughout the holidays.

swimming

Kids Swimming for £1

Kids swimming for just £1 over the Easter holidays at Bo'ness Recreation Centre from Saturday 2 April to Monday 18 April inclusive.
 

easter activities

outdoor/indoor activities for a range of ages.
 

Falkirk Community Trust is aiming to help local families enjoy a cracking time over the Easter holidays. Our Active Schools and Sports Development teams have a busy, fun-filled programme over the Easter break to suit all ages and abilities.
CLICK HERE for more details and online booking 

COCOS MOO

EASTER PARTIES at Coco's Moo Music

hey come join us for some

EASTER FUN Sat 9th & Sun 10th April

including Easter Bunny Visit, Dress Up, Games, Dancing, Singing, Easter Egg Hunt

2 adults welcome

Book HERE 

afternoon tea

Easter Afternoon Tea

Easter afternoon teas at Callendar House are available throughout the holidays (including Easter Monday) and we now offer a mini afternoon tea for little guests so you can bring the whole family along!

Book your place here

I am gutted that I have once again left it too late to borrow a child and go and pick an pumpkin - who have all been pumpkin picking? Have your decided on your design? Me and my family had a competition last year and I am looking forward to planning another new design for this year. 

As a busy Family and Child Photographer in Falkirk, I meet with lots of lovely families and love hearing what they have been up to for Halloween, I love seeing their pumpkin designs and also their trick or treat outfits - how much fun is Halloween? 

Here is some designs I have made if your stuck and need some extra inspiration - we would love to see your design so please make sure your comment on our Halloween post on Facebook so we can all see each others.

PUMPKIN DESIGN 1

PUMPKIN 2

PUMPKIN 3

PUMPKIN 4

Download these HERE 

Are you looking for some other ideas on things to do with the little ones then check out more ideas HERE

Happy Halloween

Love and Hugs

Nicole x

behind the scenes at J'Adore Photography

Hi everyone my name is Nicole and I am a Maternity, Newborn, Baby and Family Photographer running J'Adore Photography in Falkirk, Scotland. October is the month that we appreciate all the photographers out there... so I want to give a big shout out to all my fellow photographers doing the job they love and capturing all these special memories. 

My own journey into photography started many moons ago at Queen Margaret University when I was studying for my Marketing & Media honours degree, it was here my love with photography started and continued to grow. When me and Colin then started planning our wedding we searched for the perfect photographer to capture our memories, which was very difficult to find what I imagined in my head.. It was after this long search and a big push from my husband I felt it was time to do this myself, follow my dreams and J'Adore Photography was born... 

I love being a Newborn and Family Photographer and It's hard to believe that I have been doing this for 12 years but I can honestly say I love every second... I love looking back to where it all began....  I started off in my front room, then moved into the kids play room (sorry kids) and then nearly 10 years ago I took that scary step and signed the lease on my photography studio in Falkirk, Scotland... I have loved every single moment and I couldn't have done it without YOU... 

I want to take the opportunity to thank each and everyone of you who has supported me and my business and helped me follow my dream and do a job I love so much... 

• THANK YOU to all the amazing clients who choose me to capture all their special memories and return year upon year

• THANK YOU to my friends and family (especially my hubby and kiddies) for understanding that sometimes work takes over - I'm sorry already for the busy Xmas session that is coming up.

• THANK YOU to everyone who recommends me to people looking for photographers,

• THANK YOU to everyone who take the time to Like, Comment and Share my content on social media.. 

• THANK YOU to everyone who has taken time to leave me a review on Facebook or Google reviews (this helps others find me)

• THANK YOU to the companies who put their faith in me to be their ambassador - Elinchrom, The Flash Centre, Studio Ninja, Molly and Agnes and Loxley Colour

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU 

review for maternity photography

review for baby photography

review for cake smash

Maggie Moo’s Secret Garden at The Cowshed

NEXT TUESDAY 25th OCTOBER

HALLOWEEN CRAFTS .    

Let your little one make halloween decorations, easy toddler crafts that will be good enough to use as part of your halloween decorations
 

halloween cupcakes

Cupcake Making Class At Staceys Designer Cakes 

Halloween Cupcake Class

Saturday 30th October 2021 - Class 1 (9.30 - 12.30) - Class 2 (2.00 - 5.00)

Cost £50 per adult, Child age 12+ £40 (if accompanied with adult)

Level: beginner / novice

Learn the basics of creating 6 stunning cupcakes

The theme for these are Halloween, during the class you will get a demonstration how to pipe on your cupcakes ready for the toppers you will make. You will get to take these home with you in a presentation box.

All Materials and equipment will be supplied for the class. All COVID safety measures will be in place. Face masks must be worn during class. Due to COVID measures spaces are limited

To book your space:

email me on [email protected] - Call 07717779407 - Message through facebook

pumpkins

Make your own pumpkins

Looking for a fun autumn activity?

Learn how to create a trio of forever pumpkins at MOO + BOO's latest workshop at Skapa Falkirk.

Sunday October 23RD

Book online at: Large Wool felt Pumpkin Trio Workshop 10-3:30/4 Sunday Oct 23rd | Mysite (mooandbooshop.com)

blair drummond

Halloween Adventure at Blair Drummond

October tickets are now on sale

HalloWILD - Blair Drummond Safari Park

Our fantastic Halloween Adventure at Blair Drummond is back from 8th-31st October.

Pumpkin picking, giant spider bales, fire pits and a trick or treat trail! Plus all the usual animals and attractions

Visitor numbers are limited. Advance bookings only. Don’t miss out!

winter wonderland at J'Adore Photography themed christmas sessions

Winter Wonderland At J'Adore Photography 

We are so excited to announce to be planning our special limited edition Christmas sessions at J'Adore Photography.

We have 4 gorgeous full set ups and 2 digital sets available during these minis sessions including our

• Magical Winter Wonderland
• Christmas Kitchen
• (new) Hot Chocolate Stand
• (new) Christmas Eve Bed
• Xmas Window
• (new)Santa Secrets

*All set ups and Props are provided

*Siblings and fur-babies are welcome at your session

Our first event is taking place on 4/5 Nov and you can book your slot HERE

halloween party
Kids Halloween party

Tickets can be purchased from the Masonic Hall, Bo'ness, Monday to Wednesday between the times of 9am and 12pm.

Tickets £6 each
Accompanying adults £2 each
Please give us a shout on facebook if you have any questions, thanks!
 

MAY 2021 - Fairy Experience WINNER

Well our judges have been super time voting and they have now decided on a winner. Without further delay it gives me great pleasure to announce the winning fairy from our Scottish Fairy Experience held in May 2021

We would like to thank everyone that took part over the few days, we hope you and your children enjoyed it as much as us...  It was lovely to meet all of you and capture lots of gorgeous images for you to treasure for a lifetime

Congratulations to our gorgeous winning fairies

Fairy Experience Winner May 2021

Our winner will receive a stunning frame worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We have had lots of requests for more fairy experience dates we will be looking to open some more dates soon so please sign up to our waiting list HERE to be notified when these dates are released. 

Thanks
 

Nicole x

older aged newborn sessions

Hi, I am Nicole and I am a newborn and portrait photographer based in Falkirk, Scotland. I normally spend my days in my gorgeous studio, capturing lots of special memories with my newborn, baby, child and family portrait sessions. However, this last year has been slightly different and we have had periods of times when we have had to close our doors and postpone lots of client’s sessions. So many of my clients have been in touch worried that their new babies are now too old and they have missed the perfect age for a newborn session. Mummies, please do not worry – I have been photographing newborn babies for over 11 years, I have so much experience with babies and I cannot wait to capture these special memories for you.  Your baby is never too old to come into my studio, I welcome little ones of all ages.

I am so excited that we eventually have a reopen date and I can open the doors to J’Adore Photography again. I cannot wait to reopen on 26th April and welcome in all my lovely clients, many of whom have had to re-plan their sessions due to lockdown.
 

Mummies, just let me reassure you, postponing your newborn session does NOT mean missing out! I am a Falkirk Newborn Photographer who has been photographing newborn babies for over 11 years, I have so much experience with babies of all ages and I cannot wait to capture these special memories for you.  

Normally newborn sessions are carried out within the first 14 days after your little ones has arrived – this is because your baby will still be sleepy and squishy… However, I have learned from the last lockdown and restrictions that age really is just a number and I can still capture a gorgeous gallery of images with an older baby, in a style and poses remarkably similar to my newborn images.

After the last lockdown we had lots of older babies through our doors, and I enjoyed this slightly older age so much. With your baby being older during their session, this still means they may go to sleep and we can still get the sleepy newborn style pose (even if they just close their eyes for a second). However, this older age also means that your new baby will start to engage with me so your session may even involve some eye contact, expression and even some cute baby smiles.

older newborn sessions - arthur

What if my baby doesn't sleep?

As you baby gets older you will notice that they will sleep less during the day… However, this is also a bonus in the studio, this means that we can also capture some gorgeous images with eye contact, engagement with mummy, daddy and/or siblings and maybe even some smiles.

We will be in touch with you just before your newborn session giving you some hints and tips to get your baby sleepy for their session. With them being slightly older, you will know your baby a little better and know if they will sleep and how to get them sleepy too. Please do not worry though because even if your baby isn’t sleepy that will not affect your session.

During a session with a slightly older baby, we do not worry if they will not go to sleep – we will instead concentrate on poses that are suitable once your baby is more alert and less bendy. With this age we love doing more wrapped poses, which are ideal to photograph your little one in props or with other young siblings.

Our hands style images are also the perfect addition to your older newborn session and the occasion to capture these amazing open eyes images as well as detailed shots of your baby's tiny features.

baby in hands

Will there still be props we can use??

We have lots and lots of props for slightly bigger/older babies so please do not worry that you will get less variety. We have lots of gorgeous hats, wraps, headband, tutus, crates, hammocks and bowls that are perfect for bigger babies. We will still get you lots of images in a variety of different props during your session.

newborn session with older baby

Will I get less images than during a normal newborn session??

Absolutely not! We may just get a few different images that may differ from our standard newborn session, but we will work with you and your baby to get you the most amazing gallery of images for you to treasure forever. During your session we have the bonus of being able to include awake and expression images too, which are super cute.

older newborn images

What is the next age you recommend after a newborn session??

At J’Adore Photography we photograph all the special milestones during a baby’s first year. The most common ages we photograph are Newborn, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months – during these stages your baby’s little personality will shine through, they will interact, show expression and smile too. If you have missed the newborn stage and would prefer to wait until an older session, then these are the next milestones we would recommend.

sitter session

Your baby is a special new addition to your family, and we would love to capture these special memories for you. Please do not worry that you have missed the perfect age. Remember, your baby is still the lovely new addition to your family regardless of their age and you can still have stunning, professional images, to look back on for years to come.

cake smash sessions
 

I have operated my portrait photography business in Falkirk, Stirlingshire over the last eleven years and I have families visiting me from all over central Scotland. This means I have picked up lots of hints, tips and experience with babies of all ages. I hope this blog has put your mind at ease and you will arrange an appointment so that I can capture all these special memories for you (regardless of your little one’s age)

Our diary is now open, and we are taking bookings for after 26th April. We cannot wait to be open again and welcome you lovely families back into our studio. If you have had a baby during this lockdown or are currently due a new arrival soon then do not delay and get in touch so we can secure your slot.

We would love to capture these special memories for you.

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

xx

About Life Before Birth

Isn't pregnancy miraculous?  As a Maternity and Newborn Photographer based in Falkirk, Scotland I spend lots of time with expecting or new mums. I always find it fascinating how their bodies have changed to prepare and make these gorgeous little babies. When your expecting a baby its such a exciting time and its fascinating to know how your little baby develops and grows into a little person.

These facts really bring it home, our bodies are just amazing and do such a great job.. Well Done Mummy

BONES

You had 31% more bones whilst in the womb
so you would be flexible enough to pass through your mothers vagina on your birthday

HEART

Your heart began beating just 18 days after fertilization
It would eventually pump blood twice as fast as your adult heart, beating over 54 million times before your birth

HEALING

If your mother was in distress you sent stem cells
She sent you antibodies in return to protect you against diseases
 

GENDER

Your gender was determined at fertilization

If you are female you produced every egg you will ever have prior to birth.
 

EYES

At 8 weeks your retinas formed
You began to move your eyes in response to light 4 weeks later. you could tell if it was dark or sunny outside
 

MOUTH

The membrane covering your mouth broke at 10 weeks

You began to drink amniotic fluid comprised primarily of your own urine
 

FINGERPRINTS

Your fingerprints were etched into your skin by 9 weeks
Twins have different fingerprints
 

VOICE

Although no one could hear you, you cried in the womb
The sound of your cry was influenced by the language you heard before birth
 

GROWTH

In 4 weeks you grew 10,000 times bigger than the egg you started as
You weighed 6 billion times more than that egg when you were born at 9 months

ORGANS

At just 7 weeks and 1 inch long you had all of your organs
Your brain was the first to appear with brainwaves detectable at only 6 weeks
 

HEARING

Your cochlea reached adult size by 20 weeks
Loud noises often woke or startled you
 

TASTE

What your mother ate flavoured your amniotic fluid
You swallowed more amniotic fluid when your mother ate sweet foods compared to when she ate bitter foods

I hope you found all these facts as interesting as me. Enjoy the rest of your pregnancy, treasure every second and moment because it passes in a blink of an eye. We would love to help you capture all these special memories so if you haven't already booked a Maternity or Newborn Sessions with us then get in touch to check for availability and get that slot all secured. 
 

pregnancy facts

newborn

Hi everyone, I'm Nicole and I have been a newborn photographer based in Falkirk, Scotland for over 11 years - I spend so much time with expecting and new mums and really feel for everyone who has missed out on all the special pregnancy related things due to lockdown. I have therefore put together this blog to hopefully give you something positive to look forward too. 

Have you missed your Baby Shower? Your are expecting a baby,  you have spent years dreaming of your baby shower and how you would celebrate your pregnancy with all your friends and family. How upsetting that due to the current restrictions your much planned baby shower couldn't take place.

However, there is something new on the scene which you could start planning, so you don't feel you have missed out. Have you heard about the American Sip n See parties?... These are an alternative baby shower, which takes place after your baby has arrived. It allows you to have a little glass of bubbly with your loved ones and lets you show off your new arrival to all your friends and family. Everyone loves meeting a new little baby.

These Sip and See parties have been making their way to the UK and have now adapted a new name of Bubbles and Cuddles Parties -Why don't you plan your own Bubbles and Cuddles Party to celebrate your new baby with all your friends and family - What a nice thing to do to pass some time and give you something special to look forward too.

Now that restrictions are lifting it's the perfect time to plan a little Bubbles and Cuddles party to get everyone together to see your new baby. 

newborn

How to Plan

Planning one of these parties will be really depend on what the current restrictions are at that time? How many households are allowed together? etc. 

• You could hire a restaurant / cafe (will be dependant on social distancing rules when your party is taking place)
• You could arrange a socially distanced garden get together - again dependent on numbers but you could give people a drop in time so that you are managing numbers dependant on what's allowed. 

I've complied some handy things below to help you prepare your perfect Bubbles and Cuddles Party and I've also designed you some invites for you too!

Picking a Date

I would advise sitting and looking over the roadmap out of lockdown and picking the best date, which is close enough for you to start planning but also allows the numbers you need for all the important people in your life to attend.

NEWBORN

The Invite List

This can either be all your family and friends (both mummy's and daddy's) or you can plan it as an only girl affair like a traditional baby shower... Either way I'm sure all your loved ones will take great delight in getting the chance to see you all and celebrate the new arrival of your little bundle. 

The Invites

I have designed a few invites for you below which can be downloaded HERE, printed and posted or sent via social media, WhatsApp etc to your loved ones.

bubbles and cuddles invite

Things to do

There is a few things you can do at a Bubbles and Cuddles Party, but I think the most important thing is showing off your little baby... You can play some party games, get the guests to fill out a visitor book or advice cards for the little one to look back on in the future 

Gift list

Although there may not be anything you need because your little one is already here, everyone loves buying things for a baby and guests would love to bring a little gift for you and the baby. You could include a little list of things you still need to make it easier for them to decide what to bring... Gift vouchers for an up an coming photoshoot is also a good idea so they can help you capture all these special memories to treasure forever. 

Please let me know if you have planned or are planning your Bubbles and Cuddles party and how it went. 

Happy Planning

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

P.S if you have not yet scheduled your photo session to capture all the special memories of your new arrival - I am reopening on 26th April and would love to get you all booked in... Drop me a message to check for availability. 

If you are still expecting and your little one is not here yet we also have a guide for carrying out the perfect virtual baby shower which includes free invites/games- Pop on over and check it out HERE

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA For some of us, preparing our men for the family photo session is as exhausting as preparing the kids. If your other half is happy-go lucky about photoshoot day then that’s excellent. However, If your dealing with someone who's reluctant, then here are some things you can do to help get them on board.

• Especially if this is your first session together with the family now that the kids are mobile, let him know how the session will go and discuss your expectations. Also, if you have to bride the kids, communicate this so he can help remind them of the bribery - its so good to have him on board so you can work as a team.

• Warn him that the kids will probably be crazy or freak out and that he should prepare himself for that. Let him know that Nicole has been photographing for over 11 years and there is nothing she won't have seen...  It will all be fine, even if a little crazy and just try not to get overwhelmed or stressed.

•  Let him know that the more helpful he is getting himself and the kids ready, organised and onboard then there will be less chance of an arguement between you arising.

• Remind him that the session is only for an hour (a few more if you have a newborn session) and then it will all be over. This will help his see light at the end of the tunnel so he can stick it out.

• If your husband is being difficult, bribe him to cooperate during the session as well.. If it works for the kids it may well work for him too (they are big kids after all)

•  And most impostantly - remind him, that you love him (and that he loves you and that's why he is cooperating with this). Tell him how much you appreciate his support and cooperation in this, and how pleased you are going to be with the finished photos. 

• Explain that this is such a special event for you - you are always the one taking the photos and you don't have any professional family photos.... This will be such a special event and the images you will treasure forever - If he knows how important it is he will be onboard. 

Hope this helps

See you soon for your session - If you havent already scheduled your session then get in touch to secure your slot. 

Love

Nic  xx

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

elinchrom elc 125/500

I was super happy to be asked to trial the new ELC 125 & 500 lights for The Flash Centre/ Elinchrom. I run a very busy portrait studio in Falkirk, Scotland and was very excited to put the lights through their paces during my photography sessions, in a proper working environment.

I have been running my photography business for over 11 years and I have used various lighting brands before switching fully Elinchrom 6 years ago - which was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I love my old Elinchrom lights and regularly use the Dlite RX one for my newborn and studio portrait work but on using the 125 for the first time I fell in love with it, It just felt more professional and off better build quality yet was still light enough to work with shoot by shoot.

newborn photography

When the lights arrived at the studio it felt like Christmas, on opening the box I was filled with excitement - even with the "we believe in you" quote on the box - which made me smile from ear to ear. From the moment I opened the packaging I was struck by how “sexy” these new units looked compared to the rest of my Elinchrom gear. The kit comes in a lovely newly designed bag, which again is of amazing quality and is fully protective for the mobile/ location photographer. The full build quality of the 125 and 500 units is just amazing, they just ooze quality but are still super easy to use. 

fine art children photography

I am not the most technical person but unpacking and setting up the lights was a breeze. They were so easy to fit into my modifiers and the locking mechanism felt so positive, which again reinforced the quality feel of the lights.

I couldn't wait to get started with using these lights and once unpacked and installed I was good to go... I was blown away with these lights, the consistency of both the exposure and colour temperature are absolutely amazing. Not to mention the fast recycle time which came in handy for my toddler and cake smash sessions, where the subject sometimes doesn't sit still for a long period of time. I also loved the coloured groups on the side of the units, what a lovely new feature. This makes it so easy to see what group your light is on and make quick and easy adjustments.

These new lights are just so user friendly, especially working in a fast paced studio with time constraints - these just made my life so much easier. From the ease of setting up, shooting and also the consistency of the lighting both in exposure and colour temperature which also reduced my retouching/editing time.

J'Adore Photographywww.jadorephotography.co.uk

Having come to the end of my testing period I will be so upset to have to hand these lights back - I have loved shooting with them and really don’t want to see them go so will be investing in some myself and would recommend any portrait photographers to check them out.  

Here is a selection of my images shot with these fabby new lights... 

Are you due to have a baby? How exciting that you are soon going to welcome a new little bundle of joy into your life. Things are so different now with this dreaded virus, not allowing us to celebrate special events the same.  So how are you going to celebrate your pregnancy and your up and coming new arrival when you can’t have a baby shower with your family and friends…

As a maternity and newborn photographer I meet lots of new mums and mums to be and I want to help you all have the best possible virtual baby shower. Please don’t let lockdown stop you celebrating, organise a virtual baby shower or get one of your besties to arrange it for you. Give everyone something special to look forward to and get all your special people together online.

Here are some hints and tips to help you plan an amazing baby shower that you will remember forever. Make sure you download our Virtual Baby Shower Checklist  to help get you all organised - make sure you read to the end to get this. 

Before you start planning your virtual baby shower it's important to decide if you will host this yourself or allocate a special family/ friend to do all the planning for you? Once you have decided and nominated your host if it won't be yourself then the planning can begin.. 

who to invite

I think the best thing to start with first is who you want to be at your baby shower, this helps you decide the best date, time, venue, games etc, which will suit the majority of your choosen guests. The good thing with it being online is that numbers, location etc doesn't come into it... So write a list of your nearest and dearest and those people you want to celebrate this special moment with you as you get ready to welcome your baby into the world. 
 

What date and time

Now looking at your guestlist think about what would suit the majority of people when picking a date and time, Are people working? stay at home mums? When do people have child-care? The good thing is most people don't have a lot of things going on at the moment so the majority should be able to attend your baby shower. 

venue

Choose A Venue

Now it's time to decide on your venue.. There is so many different options for online get togethers but its important you pick the one that will work best for you and your guests. There is Skype, Google Hangouts, Zoom, Facebook to name a few. I would suggest picking the one you are most confident and familiar with. Bear in mind some loved-ones may not be the best with technology so make sure its easy to use and have a test run with people you think may struggle to log in.

I love zoom and have used this for most of my online events during lockdown, bear in mind the free plan does have a 40 min time limit.  

Create A Timeline For The Event

This is optional but I would recommend setting up a timeline for your event especially if you are having a load of guests. When everyone hasn’t seen everyone for ages time can run away with all the hellos and catch ups, time may run away with itself and your party will be over before it  has started.

40 Minute Timeline

1-1.05pm – welcome and hellos to all those that arrive and this allows everyone to check their set ups and get online and ready.

1.05-1.25pm – It's party time – scroll down and I have some fab game ideas for you

1.25-1.35pm – Open gifts – skip this step if you would rather not open gifts during the party and continue playing games

1.35-1.40pm – Virtual Goodbyes – Its time to say goodbye

90 Minute Timeline

1-1.10pm - Welcome and hellos to all those that arrive and this lets everyone check their set ups and get online and ready.

1.10-2pm - It's party time – scroll down and I have some fab game ideas for you

2-2.20pm - Open gifts – skip this step if you would rather not open gifts during the party and continue playing games

2.20-2.30pm- Virtual Goodbyes – Its time to say goodbye

Plan Your Invites

Next it's time to plan the invites – now you can either send a email party invitation and here you can include the links for the virtual event or you can send a paper invite. I love paper invitations and love receiving something physical in the mail – We have some great downloadable virtual baby shower invitations for you to download at the end.

Gift Ideas

Are you planning on setting up a baby gift list to give people an idea of what they can buy you. People like having an idea of what you need and what helpful items people can buy for you. Mums-to-Be who have booked their newborn sessions with us love referring people to our gift vouchers because it means someone can buy them some credit towards their session/ products (which is really a gift that lasts a lifetime)

Decorations

Decorations

Decorating for a virtual baby shower is optional, but it will certainly help you get in the mood and feel the excitement. If you are planning a baby shower for someone else I would certainly get daddy-to-be roped in to help decorate mummies living room on the sly so she can have a lovely surprise, you can have some nice balloons, banners, plates and napkins and make it a proper celebration. 

If you are using zoom then you can also allocate a zoom background to your event, so no need to worry about decorations. 

games and activities

Virtual Baby Shower Games and Activities

Who's that baby – Before the call  starts everyone has to send a baby picture to the host and guests try and guess who is who

how well do you know mum?

How well do you know mum? Get guests to fill in their answers to how well do they know mum before the even – mum gets asked the questions on the event and gets the little cards to keep as a keepsake afterwards. Download yours here 
 

Guess the Number – Mummy holds up a jar filled with sweeties (mummies favourites) and all guests guess how many are inside – mummy gets to keep and eat all the goodies afterwards.

some advice for mum

Some advice for mum- Get guests to fill in advice for mum before the event, then read some of these out to mum during the event and then mummy gets to keep these cards afterwards. Download yours here 

The price is right – Have an array of baby items and everyone has to guess the cost – have some weird ones in there because it gets everyone talking about how things have changed since they had kids etc
 

mummy or daddy game

Mummy or daddy - A great wee game to get guests to fill in before hand or during the event. Download yours HERE 

Name that baby song – the host plays different nursery rhymes and guests have to guess the song

Sweet Baby Predictions - A great wee game to get guests to fill in before hand or during the event. Download yours HERE 
 

Who doesn't like some games without a prize... Its nice to have some prizes available for the winners... Here is some idea's to support local businesses too. A sweet treat box from a local company – we use Rokozy, a cake treat box delivered – if your local we love Sweet Bakery  or an afternoon tea – If your local we love Finnegans 

I hope this has helped you plan the best virtual baby shower, I have put together a host of FREE downloadables from invites, checklists, templates - download yours HERE ... Please let us know how your event goes. 

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

P.S- If you are local i have a great facebook page for central scotland mums if you want to join - click here... And also make sure you follow me on facebook and instagram to be keep up to date with what im up to and also any offers etc. 

fine art children

We love these styled images and would love to welcome you and your little ones into the studio to capture some images of your little ones. Our fine art child sessions are suitable for any age as long as your little one can follow direction so that we can pose them to suit this style. We have a range of outfits and props in the studio and will direct you on items to bring along too. The session is only £60 which includes our time, talent, use of all our props, styling and a personalised viewing appointment to see your images and choose what products you want. 

Interested in coming into to studio for one of these sessions then please get in touch with us to check for availability.

Thanks

Nic x

As a maternity and newborn photographer, I understand mums and mums to be, I normally spend everyday with them. Pregnancy is such a precious time but imagine going through the special journey into Motherhood whilst in the middle of a global Pandemic. Midwife appointments and  many antenatal classes have been cancelled and you have been placed in lock-down. You can't visit your mum for a cup of tea and a chat, you can't wander to the shops and pick up super cute baby-grows and items for your new arrival and your carefully planned baby shower has been cancelled. It's such a challenging time for all the mums to be during lock-down so I wanted to produce a nice safe group where these mums to be can turn to for advice, guidance, support and friendship. 

Part of the reason I am a photographer is because I want to capture special moments and what more special a time is there than being pregnant. If I can't take pictures I wanted to be able to make it special in other ways and give these mums the best experience they can have. Therefore, I created an amazing facebook group called Babies in Central Scotland - this group is filled with lots of expectant and new mums along with some specialists who can provide some advice, guidance and support. This is not a selling group just a nice group of ladies supporting each other during this strange time. We would love for you to come and join us and meet some other mums in their pregnancy/ motherhood journey. To join this group click HERE

We are delighted to have to following experts in the group providing some advice and activities - more guest experts to follow. 

J'Adore Photography - i am on hand to help manage the group and i have also provided some free guides such as an app to help you capture your own maternity photography.

Simple Positive Birth - who provides breastfeeding and hypnotherapy classes - she will be doing a free taster in the group for all new mums to be. 

Precious Time Therapies - Who has provided a free taster event on baby massage in the group and is on hand for further advice and support. 

Coco Moo's Music - is in the group and will be providing free baby music classes for all the little babies stuck at home. 

Baby Sensory - is a fun sensory class for babies and they will be providing taster sessions in the group

Daisy First Aid - Daisy First Aid offers fun and fear-free first aid courses designed specifically for parents and child carers

If you are expecting a baby and are looking for a newborn photographer for when your little one arrives then make sure you sign up to our waiting list so you can be notified when we are back open - we would love to capture your special memories - add your details here

Thanks for Reading

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

x

Kerri's Story of her birth during lockdown

Hi,

Welcome to our blog post, I met the lovely Kerri in my Facebook group (Babies in Central Scotland) which I run to help mums-to-be and new mums cope with pregnancy and motherhood during this pandemic and current isolation... We have so many worried pregnant and new mums in the group that Kerri agreed to share her experience of pregnancy, Labour and being a new mum during this current Pandemic to provide a little reassurance and support to other ladies... Thanks so much Kerri for sharing your story about her labour experience at Forth Valley Hospital, Larbert, Falkirk, Scotland... 

How was it being pregnant during Lockdown? 

It was a strange experience going from being ‘free’ to locked down. I am a nurse and went from being frontline when Coronavirus was starting to do the rounds in China and wondering if it would have much impact here - to starting my maternity leave a couple weeks before it really blew up in the UK. It was strange feeling like I had abandoned my colleagues in such a time of need and it was strange becoming ‘vulnerable’ when usually I’m on the side of caring for people I would consider vulnerable.

Were you worried how the pandemic would affect your birthing experience?

I was really worried that I wouldn’t be allowed a birthing partner. As visiting times all began to change and no one could give you a straight answer about what would be allowed it worried me. Being my first child I was worried enough without being able to get that reassurance from the midwives that I would be allowed my partner there too only worked me up more. I tried to stay calm and knew no matter what happened it would be for the best.

It was a bit gutting knowing the grandparents wouldn’t be able to come to the hospital and meet the baby the way I had always imagined but for me as long as Robbie was there with me then I could get over the rest of it.

How did your experience match up with your expectations?

My experience was amazing. I had an incredible midwife who I had previously met at parent craft classes in January and she was so calming and listened to all my concerns and needs and put me at ease straight away. She apologised over and over for wearing a mask and seemed genuinely gutted she couldn’t give me a hug after I had the baby 10 mins before her shift finished. My birthing experience wasn’t what I had planned - I wanted a water birth but due to baby being distressed ended up with hormone drip and epidural but Katie my midwife made my experience the best it could have ever been. In that time - Coronavirus didn’t even cross my mind even with the extra PPE all around me - they really make you feel like you’re in your own bubble and you’re all that matters.

Do you have any advice for pregnant ladies who are likely to give birth during the pandemic?

Don’t panic about your hospital experience - they make you feel so relaxed and special. Corona virus doesn’t exist in your mind for the moment your baby is born ❤️

How do you feel your Birthing Partner was treated during your labour?

Robbie was treated really well - I really wish he could have been allowed in with me in the antenatal ward for my induction but I understand why he wasn’t. It was hard and sad walking into the hospital with my bags on my own knowing the next time I left I would be walking out with a baby alone too but while in the labour ward he was treated no differently to what I’d expect without a pandemic.

When I was ready to move to labour ward I was given plenty time to get in touch with him and tell him to start making a move into hospital - they let him in as soon as I was in ward 7.

What was your birthing partners experience like?

Robbie has the same thoughts as me - wished he could have been with me for the beginning of the induction and found it hard to drop me off at the door and have to leave but knows it was for the best. We got to have 7 hours post birth in labour ward before I was moved back to Post-Natal ward and he never felt rushed to leave - that was important to me that he got the time to bond with roarie too and it was clear the midwives felt the same and were happy to give us that time while they had the capacity of rooms in labour ward.

What has it been like after the birth and getting discharged from the hospital?

I was moved to post natal ward overnight and was in until 1630 the next day. I found it really hard being there alone with a new baby that I didn’t have a clue what to do with. Especially knowing that In normal circumstances I could have had Robbie and my family there with me the full day visiting too. It was strange and I spent most of the time chasing the midwives to let me home! Robbie couldn’t come onto the ward to take us home so I never got that experience of being able to watch him take our son out the doors but it made it even more special when we were free to go knowing we would be together.

I hope reading Kerri's story about pregnancy and labour during lock-down helps to provide reassurance for all the nervous mummies and daddies to be out there. Big thanks again to Paula, Robbie and Baby Roarie for sharing their experience with us... 

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

x

pregnancy during lockdown

Hi,

Welcome to our blog post, I met the lovely Paula in my Facebook group (Babies in Central Scotland) which I run to help mums-to-be and new mums cope with pregnancy and motherhood during this pandemic and current isolation... We have so many worried pregnant and new mums in the group that Claire agreed to share her experience of pregnancy, Labour and being a new mum during this current Pandemic to provide a little reassurance and support to other ladies... Thanks so much Paula for sharing your story about her labour experience at Forth Valley Hospital, Larbert, Falkirk, Scotland... 

How was it being pregnant during Lockdown? 

Early on in the corona virus outbreak I wasn’t too concerned- it still felt like one of those things that was hyped up but would turn out not to affect me. I think the severity of the situation really hit me when pregnant women were placed in the ‘at risk’ category. I was 34 weeks pregnant, had just finished up work and was looking forward to spending the last few weeks with my 2 year old before her sister came along. I felt cheated out of that time- instead of days out we had to stay at home. 

Once we settled into some sort of routine I accepted it- I knew that these precautions were put in place to protect me and my unborn baby. 

1 week into lock down my partner was sent home from work and my mindset changed- having him there gave me support and made the long days easier. 

I’m hindsight it was a special time that we got to spend as a family of 3 before baby came along. 

Were you worried how the pandemic would affect your birthing experience?

At 36 weeks I had a growth scan and it was decided I would be induced at 38 weeks. I was expecting this as I had gestational diabetes in my previous pregnancy and this baby had been measuring big from the start.

The consultant was great at finding out information with regards to my partner supporting me in ward 8 and delivery ward. At my 36 week scan and consultant appointment (which my partner was not allowed to attend) I was informed that I would be allowed one birthing partner who would be able to stay with me in ward 8 during my induction process. However, things moved quickly in those two weeks and when my induction date came round, there were to be no birthing partners allowed in ward 8 and Instead only when you were transferred to labour ward would they be allowed in. To be honest, I was expecting the change as restrictions had been tightening in hospitals and because I had mentally prepared myself for it, i wasn’t too phased by the situation. 

It’s funny, you even get used to everyone in the hospital wearing PPE- it’s became the new norm.

How did your experience match up with your expectations?

The induction process was  generally more lengthy compared to my first baby. 24 hours in a ward that you can’t leave was a bit tedious but what I was pleasantly surprised with was the comradery between myself and the other woman in the ward, who were all in the same boat. 

With my first baby, all curtains were usually drawn and you didn’t really communicate with the other woman, but without birthing partners there to keep you company and having the exceptional circumstances to bond over, it was a really lovely experience to have with those other ladies. 

Do you have any advice for pregnant ladies who are likely to give birth during the pandemic?

Prepare! Think ahead with regards to you hospital bag etc. Pack extra things such as clothes, toiletries and snacks. Partners won’t be allowed in when you are on ward but they are allowed to drop stuff off at the door for you if you are desperate.

Try and embrace the situation- the people around you and the staff looking after you are all in the same position as you. Speak to them, offer support and learn from them. 

I found it was a mindset you needed to change- if you think positive and accept the position you are in, it makes it’s an easier process in the long run. 

How do you feel your Birthing Partner was treated during your labour?

My partner Rusty was with me during labour. I feel, and I’m sure he agrees, that he was treated very well by everyone on the ward. The midwives communicated well with him when I was concentrating on things in hand, he was offered food and drinks when I was, and was allowed to stay in the labour ward as long as I was. The experience my partner had wasn’t all that different from what it would have been if he was supporting me out with the pandemic. 
 

What was your birthing partners experience like?

My partner found it all a bit surreal. He felt a bit helpless being at home and not being able to support me whilst I was on ward 8. When he did get to come into delivery he felt welcomed, involved in the experience and overall was very impressed with the professionalism of the staff in difficult times.
 

What has it been like after the birth and getting discharged from the hospital?

With this being my second baby, I have the experience with my first daughter to compare too, and on a whole not much is different. They seemed eager to discharge from ward 8- which is understandable. I do believe they wouldn’t push someone to go home if they weren’t ready. 

The staff in ward 8 ask that whoever is picking you up from the hospital hands your car seat into the ward and then waits for you at the door. Someone from the ward will then help you with your bags and car seat. 

At home, use of PPE is an obvious difference when the midwife and health visitor has came to the house. Other than that, I had a visit from the midwife on day 2, 4 and 8 and the health visitor came on day 10 as normal.(Note- even though I gave birth at FVRH I am under Fife for my midwife/ HV care) 

On a personal note, it’s been quite difficult not having visitors or being able to show our new arrival off. Thank goodness for social media and video calls. I have to keep reminding myself that this is not forever- we will all be together soon and these days will be a distant memory. 

It is nice having my partner at home for a bit longer than his statutory paternity leave so I look at that as a positive and a really nice time that the four of us can share before life goes back to some sort of normality again. 

I would just like to reassure anyone who is due to give birth at FVRH that the corona virus won’t effect the level of care an professionalism you receive from all staff members. If you are in ward 8, try to remember that everyone is in the same position as you- speak to each other, share stories and offer support. We are all in this together.  
 

birth during lockdown

I hope reading Paula's story about pregnancy and labour during lock-down helps to provide reassurance for all the nervous mummies and daddies to be out there. Big thanks again to Paula, Rusty and Baby Stella and big sister Fern for sharing their experience with us... 

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

x

baby ollie

Hi,

Welcome to our blog post, I met the lovely Claire in my Facebook group (Babies in Central Scotland) which I run to help mums-to-be and new mums cope with pregnancy and motherhood during this pandemic and current isolation... We have so many worried pregnant and new mums in the group that Claire agreed to share her experience of pregnancy, Labour and being a new mum during this current Pandemic to provide a little reassurance and support to other ladies... Thanks so much Claire for sharing your story about her labour experience at Forth Valley Hospital, Larbert, Falkirk, Scotland... 

How was it being pregnant during Lockdown? 

I feel like I had an ‘easy’ pregnancy, I didn’t really suffer from morning sickness or any of the usual complaints and I was loving every minute of it and just trying to embrace it - then coronavirus arrived... Before lockdown was announced my husband & I made the decision that he would be the one to go to the shops etc and I only really left the house for work or to walk the dog and it did start to take its toll. 

My baby shower was cancelled, I had this amazing bump I wanted to show off to everyone, but I couldn’t see anyone and as daft as it sounds - so many beautiful maternity clothes but nowhere to go. Then the anxiety kicked in, of all the changes at the hospital and so many rumours that you just never knew what was actually true and because things were changing every day you always had that fear at that back of your mind. The fact that John couldn’t come to appointments and didn’t get to hear the babies heartbeat those last few times or see the growth scan, I know it’s all for our own safety but I genuinely feel like we’ve both been robbed of some of the excitement of pregnancy and it definitely caused a lot more stress/anxiety towards the end than I realised at the time. 

Were you worried how the pandemic would affect your birthing experience?

When I got to the hospital John dropped me off outside and I had to go in alone, which was quite daunting as it was during the night so triage was upstairs and I wasn’t 100% where I was going but I knew that he wasn’t allowed in at that point so I expected it and was prepared.

Luckily, when I got there and was examined the midwife said I was fully dilated and was to phone John to come in and meet us in the Labour ward so I was only actually alone for about 20-30 minutes and when I say alone, the midwife never left my side, I just mean without my birthing partner. All the doctors and midwifes wore masks and never removed them so I couldn’t actually say I would recognise them if I seen them in the street but again that was to be expected and I know its for everyone’s safety. They were absolutely amazing during and after labour but we had to get transferred to postnatal ward around 4pm which meant that john was sent home and wasn’t allowed back until he picked us up the following day. This was the first time I got upset because there had been mixed messages/ reports of partners being allowed to stay on the ward etc even in rooms of 4 so I didn’t fully expect it and it honestly felt like my worst nightmare had come true. The midwifes were all amazing through and couldn’t have done more to help but it was the longest wait ever from 4pm until 9am the next morning when Ollie finally got his paediatric checks done and the ball finally started rolling for us to get home…

Do you have any advice for pregnant ladies who are likely to give birth during the pandemic?

My advice for anyone due to give birth during the pandemic would be to try not to let it ruin your experience! I know you’ll think it’s easier said than done but please take it from me, I’ve been there and done it and I regret the amount of stress, upset and sleepless nights I caused myself by reading stupid rumours and hearsay. Every midwife I spoke to made it clear that taking away your birthing partner isn’t something they are considering and it would be a massive decision if it did come to that and it wouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s rubbish if you’re kept in and your partner has to go home but you certainly aren’t along, the midwifes are amazing and so helpful and it’s a good opportunity to chat to other new mums in the same position as you.

How do you feel your John was treated during your labour?

I think he was treated the same as he would’ve if this wasn’t all going on, he was encouraged to be involved, got to tell me we had a boy and was asked if he wanted to cut the cord, je also got some skin to skin time with Ollie whilst I was being looked after afterwards and it was never made out like he was in the way or an inconvenience

What has it been like after the birth and getting discharged from the hospital?

We’ve had a midwife visit on day 3 and we get another visit on day 6 and I think that’s the last midwife visit, I’m not too sure on when we see a health visitor, I think I’ll find out tomorrow from the midwife. It’s rubbish that family can’t come to visit, everyone loves newborn hugs! I wish I could go out and about with him in his pram and show him off but obviously we can only go out for one walk and have to keep our distance but on the flip side it’s been great settling in as a family of 3 and get into our own little routines without worrying about constant visitors.

I hope reading Claire's story about pregnancy and labour during lockdown helps to provide reassurance for all the nervous mummies and daddies to be out there. Big thanks again to Claire, John and Baby Ollie for sharing their experience with us... 

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

x

ollie

It’s so difficult to know what’s the best items are to pack in your hospital bag, to have all the essential items on hand for your labour and birth of your baby. I have a lovely photography studio in Falkirk, Scotland and because I specialise in Maternity and Newborn photography I see lots of mummies-to-be and new mummies in the studio… My lovely clients have helped me compile a list of essential items that you should have in your hospital bag to ensure that you are fully prepared for your new arrival coming into the world.

Please click the image below to download and print this off and tick off the items as you purchase/pack them. That way you will be all prepared and ready to wait on your new bundle of joy arriving.

Most of the ladies I spoke to specified that a hand-held fan, lip balm and a comfy t-shirt where the three must have essential items for the labour that they would recommend you have packed into your bag.

They also all agreed there were a few essential items for Daddy to have during your labour, a fully charged phone and charger so they will not get bored. Some snacks and drinks for daddy to be – This is more essential at the moment because daddies may not be allowed to leave the ward – Please have lots of goodies to hand because you will properly not feel hungry but you don’t want daddy getting hangry during this time..

We have also noted down a few must have photographs that you should capture whilst in the hospital. Your new babies hospital name tag on their tiny little hand, an image of the three of you together (the midwifes will be happy to help capture this), a picture of your new arrivals tiny feet/hands in your hand… Take a few images of all the tiny details of your hospital stay and make sure you get these printed so that these can be put in your baby book or memory box.  Memories are so precious, and it is lovely to have these for generations to look back on for many years to come.

Hospital Check List

Thanks so much for taking the time to read

Hope this helps

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

x

We have developed a time capsule for you, your child or family to fill out during isolation.. We are living a moment of history lets document all these memories for the future generations.

TIME CAPSULE

Download your Time Capsule 

Other things which would be good for putting in your time capsule are 

- The Letter from 10 Downing Street

- Some newspaper articles

- Some pictures/ photographs of your time in isolation - take a few images on your phone of different activities you have been doing and then get them printed from freeprints (use this link here and you will get 45 free prints a month and an extra bonus)

- Take some pictures of the supermarket queues, empty shelfs, the quiet streets and empty roads.

We look forward to hearing and seeing images about all your time capsules

Love and Hugs

Nicole (your family photographer)

x

Cbeebies

This ever popular website includes games, puzzles, singalongs. colouring in activities and of course they are linked to your children’s favourite shows,

cbeebies

Draw with Bob

Bob posts a draw-along video every Tuesday and Thursday at 10am.

draw with rob

The Maths Factor with Carol Vorderman

The Maths Factor is now FREE for everyone (usually about £2 per week) to support children’s continued learning at home for the duration of the UK Schools closure period.

the maths factor park

PE with Joe Wicks

Children full of energy? Put it to good use with Joe Wicks’ daily PE videos on Youtube… and more home exercise ideas for the little ones.

pe with jo

Cosmic Yoga 

Yoga, mindfulness and relaxation designed specially for kids aged 3+, used in schools and homes all over the world.

comic yoga

Myleene’s Music Klass

Curriculum based and most importantly, fun. There’s no need for instruments or to feel intimidated. Any age, any ability welcome. Music helps to look after our children’s minds and souls, especially at a time when they need it most plus, you may even find the next Elton or mini Mozart!

myleene music class

Phonics Play

A site packed with interactive phonics games, phonics planning, assessment ideas and many teaching ideas and resources. In response to the Coronavirus situation, they have decided to make PhonicsPlay free to use during this period. Children can use the site at home without their parents needing to subscribe.

phonics play

Edinburgh Zoo

A one for animal lovers! Since you can’t go to the zoo right now, Chester Zoo are bringing the zoo to you! They take you on virtual tour of of our zoo for a whole day of animal antics, fun facts, and exclusive behind the scenes knowledge from their zoo keeper team. If you miss the live streams, you can catch up on their YouTube channel.

Audible Stories

If your child likes listening to stories then check out Audible who have a huge range of free stories for all ages.

audible

NASA at Home 

NASA at home as a lot of space related activities for children of all ages. You can explore the moon or strange new worlds outside our solar system and learn about the universe from the team at NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.

nasa at home

Teach your Monster to Read

This groundbreaking game makes learning to read fun and covers everything from letters and sounds to full sentences. It’s been designed in collaboration with leading academics and compliments synthetic phonics programmes used in schools.

teach your monster to read

Elevenses with The World of David Walliams

David Walliams has announced that he will be releasing a free audio story every day for the next 30 days in a bid to provide entertainment for children currently unable to go to school.

elevenses

Baking with the Falkirk Cake Lady

♥️♥️ sweet treat class ♥️♥️ Angela will make the classes as easy, cost effective as possible. The last thing I want is you all going out or ordering stuff and spending unnecessary money at this time. The first class will be a week on Wednesday (8th April) and it's a Victoria sponge cupcake class.

the falkirk cake lady

We also have a few things to keep you busy at home, we have some Apps and also colouring competitions for your little ones.. Please check out our things to do page - this will be updated over the weeks too

If you have came across any other great resources then please be sure to get in touch with me so i can add them onto the list. 

Thanks to everyone who suggested these idea. 

Stay Safe

Love Nicole x

Superhero experience

Superhero Experience - This is due to come around March/April - we will be finalising details and launching these very soon so please join our superhero waiting list if you would be interested in when these are launched. Add your details to our waiting list and you may even win a free session 

The Fairy Experience

The Fairy Experience is due to return on 9/10 may. We are delighted to be the official "The Fairy Experience" photographers in the area and twice a year we have the studio transformed into a magical fairy garden and we welcome lots of little Fairies and Elves into the magical world of make believe. During this time we will transform lots of little ones into Fairies and Elves and capture lots of gorgeous images that you can treasure for generations to come. These sessions are super popular and sell out super quickly and are available to book HERE

baby face

Baby Face - This style is suitable for children aged 6 month to 5 years. This style is very contemporary in look with close cropped head & shoulder images in a really modern square format and presented in Black and White, its all about your child's features and personality.

Dogathon

Dog-a-thon - We are getting ready to launch our awesome Dogathon promotion and have 101 exclusive dog portrait sessions to donate, to help DogsTrust raise essential funds in 2020. Our mastery of light and professional posing makes every session a unique time and a memory never to be forgotten, especially when it is celebrated with our big art wall décor.
 

baby on a shelf

Baby on a Shelf - Our baby on the shelf portraits are both personalised and unique to you. Every session is slightly different as we use your own custom props and toys to bring the baby shelf to life. Our mastery of light and professional posing makes every session a unique time and a memory never to be forgotten, especially when it is celebrated with our big art wall décor.

Back to Black Session

Back to Black - Creative and Timeless Portraiture that you will treasure for a lifetime. Our Black & White portraits are both personalised and unique to you. Every session is slightly different as we use a combination of lighting techniques and styling to bring your portraits to life. Our mastery of light and professional posing makes every session a unique time and a memory never to be forgotten, especially when it is celebrated with our big art wall decor.

Looking to add more exciting things shortly too..  My friend Joanne Lewis who is a Professional Photographer Hertfordshire has also been planning her year and has written a lovely blog about the types of sessions on offer - please show her some love and check it out.. 

Looking forward to capturing lots of your memories in 2020... 

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

xxxx

Christmas Adventure - Callander House

Christmas is fast approaching and the Head Elf has just returned home from a well earned break, but things are not as ready for Santa as they should be.

The Elf Workshop needs more Christmas spirit and cheer, there's a long list of presents that need to be wrapped and ready for Santa's sleigh but the Santa clock has already started counting down, will it all be ready in time?

Perhaps, with the help of all of you Elf Interns, the elves might just make it in time for the big visit. It's going to be great fun, but don't just take our word for it.. This is such a magical event of the little ones - still some slots left - Book Here 

Beecraigs - Festive Forest

Festive ForrestScreenshot Imagine a sensory explosion of seasonal magic! The wonders of a mesmerising secret forest, a spectacular and hypnotic experience in sight and sound... The scent of traditional, mouthwatering festive fayre.. An unforgettable Santa’s Grotto & Storytelling Experience filled with excitement, laughter and fun...And, like Christmas Day itself, some secret surprises along the way.

A fantastic fusion of festive memories for all the family in the incredible setting of Beecraigs Country Park!

For more information and online booking click HERE 

Aladdin - The Pantomine

Aladdin Falkirk Falkirk Community Trust is delighted to be working once again with Imagine Theatre to bring this traditional family entertainment to Falkirk.

With a law decreeing that the princess can only marry a prince, and the evil Abanazar up to no good, it looks as though Aladdin’s dreams may never come true. And he’s not the only one! Aladdin’s mum Widow Twankey, has got the mixed-up Chinese laundry blues which are not helped by the fact they’re also very poor…If only Aladdin could make his fortune and then all their dreams could come true.

FTH Theatre once again promise a show packed full of spectacular scenery, breath-taking costumes, stunning special effects, fabulous song and dance routines and hilarious slap stick comedy.

Make everyone’s wishes come true this Christmas and book your tickets now for this magical family pantomime.

Santa's Grotto Alpaca Trekking Event

alpaca trekking santa grotto Come and experience Santa's Grotto at the Alpaca Trekking Centre, Come and trek with the Alpacas/Llamas, receive a quality present from Santa, 
7th & 8th, 14th & 15th, 21st & 22nd December. Book Now 

Santa Boat Trip at The Falkirk Wheel

Santa Boat Trip at the falkirk wheel Join us on a special journey to Santa’s grotto at The Falkirk Wheel this December!

Watch the kids beam with delight as Santa comes aboard our magical boat trip with gifts for all the girls and boys, dance and sing with the Elves and get your picture taken with Santa! Book your Tickets

Visit Callander House, Falkirk

Callendar House is the perfect day out on a crisp winter's day! Take a stroll around the beautiful park, stop in at the tearoom for a cuppa 'n' cake or pre-book a festive afternoon tea. You can explore the house, it's exhibitions, the Georgian kitchen and stock up on some Christmas pressies at the gift shop on your way out, free entry too...
 

Visit The Helix, Falkirk

The Helix The Helix is a beautiful place to be during all months however Winter is especially nice. With amazing walk ways, the Visitor Centre and some cracking events, take a stroll over and join us. 

Don’t forget to check out the gift shop in the Visitor Centre for your Christmas present shopping (and maybe a wee sneaky something for yourself as well!) We have a selection of unique gift items for everyone on your “nice” list. From Scottish Fine Soaps, produced right here in Falkirk, to a selection of handcrafted items from across the UK, there’s a wide choice to suit all tastes. Outlander fans will find the officially licensed range including magnets and the famous “Jamie Fraser” tartan shawl.

Festive Fiction 

It’s Christmas time at Callendar House! And there’s plenty to do here - We will be reading classic and contemporary Christmas tales for children and adults in front of a roaring fire in Callendar House’s Georgian Kitchen on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays throughout December. 
Featuring works by Terry Pratchett, Enid Blyton, Charles Dickens, and many more, join us here for a hot chocolate, a Georgian pastry, and a magical Christmas journey! 

This event is free and there's no need to book, simply come in to Callendar House's Georgian Kitchen and we can arrange a story just for you.

Fire and Light 2020

Make it a New Year to Remember!

Round off your Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations with an illuminated, magical journey around The Helix: Home of The Kelpies. This year’s theme for the popular Fire & Light show is 2020 Visions – bringing a fusion of past, present and future to Falkirk as part of Visit Scotland’s Year of Coasts & Waters. Book NOW

I hope you have found all of these helpful and will manage to make some special Christmas trips with the family.. If I have missed anything special or exciting then let me know so I can add this onto the list for other mummies and daddies. 

Love and hugs

Nicole 

Wanting to read some more then check out Cari's blog - she is a newborn photographer in St Albans and has wrtten a lovely blog on what happens during a cake smash session... 

Framed Wall Product

  Wall Photographs

• Wall Art  – Dress your photos up with stylish frames to match your home décor. Display them in the traditional framed way or add a contemporary twist and have them printed on Aluminium or Acrylic where they can even be produced circular. We offer a variety of different styles to suit all tastes and budgets.

*When hanging photos on your wall (framed or unframed ) you can choose to hang a single photo, or a group of photos in a collection to really make a statement in your home.

We don't just have wall products, we also have lots of other options available too

• Framed on Shelves, Desks, Tables – If you are renting or don’t want to put holes in your walls from wall art, you can also frame your prints and place them on shelves, desks, or tables around your home. (These smaller products also make ideal gifts for the family)
• Photo Boxes – Customized photo boxes are just amazing! These are very popular amongst our clients and are a great way to treasure all the images from your session. This is a great way to display your photos, and you can keep more prints inside or use them as a keepsake box to house your precious memories.
• Memory Books – If you just can’t pick out a few photos to display in your home and you need more space, you can always get an album printed up and place it on your coffee table or bookshelf. Pull it out and look through it to remember how fun your session was, and how much your family loves each other.
• Digital images - We also have digital images available if you would rather print your own images, send them to family and friend, share on social media or create calanders, thanks you cards etc... Or just to safe keep all your memories forver. 

Cosytoes Photography who is a East Grinstead Cake Smash Photographer also has lots of gorgeous products available for her clients. I love when photograpers value products and helping customer display their images - helping make their house a home.. 

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

xxxx

Well our judges have been super busy voting and they have now decided on a winner. Without further delay it gives me great pleasure to announce the winning fairy from our Scottish Fairy Experience held in October 2019

We would like to thank everyone that took part over the few days, we hope you and your children enjoyed it as much as us...  It was lovely to meet all of you and capture lots of gorgeous images for you to treasure for a lifetime

Congratulations to our gorgeous winning fairy

Fairy Experience Winner Oct 19

Our winner will receive a stunning frame worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We have had lots of requests for more fairy experience dates and are excited to announce our next dates are 9th - 10th May 2020 - Slots are available to book now by clicking HERE 

Thanks
 

Nicole x

I love checking out other photographers work and i fell in love with Jill's recent newborn images - she is a
Simple Newborn Photographer in Cheshire and has the most gorgeous images on her blog.. 

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I am here today to save you from this nightmare and help prevent this from happening with the power of bribery. I know some people frown upon this, however, they properly haven’t tried to get a two, four and six year old to follow their command and sit nicely together facing the same direction and smile. Its no easy task, as a photographer, I’m going to give you the green light and tell you its ok to bribe your kids for the sake of good photos. And I will let you into a little secret – that the majority of my clients use some form of bribery to get the best results.

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We have a very limited amount of time to get all the photos that you need, and I don’t want you to be stressed because little Tommy is having a meltdown or is hiding behind his hands for the entire session, sticking his tongue out or making a silly face. So, I welcome bribery with open arms. Every child is different when it comes to bribery, They all have different personalities and like different things. Some children are motivated by sweeties, others pennies – you just need to find out what works best for your child.

Here is some suggestions that people we have noticed clients using and they have worked.

· Sweeties, Ice Cream or Fruit Snacks

· Dinner at their favourite restaurant after the session

· Later bedtime

· That awesome toy they have been drooling over

· Extra TV time

· A sleepover with a friend

· Pennies

· Extended playtime

· They don’t have to eat their Veggies at dinnertime

· Give them back a privilege that has been taken away the last time they were naughty

While these aren’t the only options - we thought this would give you a starting point to brainstorm your own ideas that will help your child specifically to cooperate.

Thanks

Nic xx

Stuck with things to do on the lead up to Christmas then check out Kathryn's suggestions - she is a Newborn baby Photographer Sheffield and she has some amazing ideas and suggestions. 

falkirk Maternity Photographer

1. You are BEAUTIFUL - There are very few women who feel like they are beautiful while they are pregnant - especially during their first pregnancy. However, the miracle of pregnancy is such a beautiful thing. I know you may not be feeling your best with swollen feet, stretch marks, sickness and hormone changes aside - but please remember from the outside we don't see all these things - Instead, we see a gorgeous woman bringing a new life (or 2) into the world with a beautiful little baby growing inside her. Falkirk Maternity Photographer

2. There is no need to worry about your BELLY - Us ladies are never happy with our bodies, constantly on a diet, hitting the gym or following the next fitness craze.. However, during your pregnancy its time to embrace your body - a pregnant bump does a good job of hiding all they woobly bits so maybe its the first time in a while you will feel confident getting your tummy out.  falkirk maternity photographer

3. A chance to bond with your PARTNER - It can be hard for Daddies-to-be to bond with an unborn baby, the baby isn't growing inside of them, moving around, getting hiccups or kicking them in the ribs... We all know how special it is when you feel your baby move for the first time, but for daddy it can be harder to imagine how wonderful that feels. By including them in your Maternity Photography Session it can help them bond with the baby.. It also gives them their own special memories and images to treasure forever. 

4. Its fun and bonding for SIBLINGS too - If you have children already they will feel very special by being included in the Maternity session, hugging and kissing your bump and showing their love and bond with their new baby brother or sister. By being included in the session it helps them to feel important and creates some nice memories for them both. For some children a new baby arriving may be a worrying time with the change in the dynamics of the family, they may feel apprehensive about what will happen. During the maternity session it allows them to start imagining what it will be like when the baby has arrived. Most likely I will also be your Newborn photographer so with them being involved in the maternity session this allows them to build a bond with me which will also result in more relaxed newborn/ sibling images.  maternity photography

5. Once its gone its GONE - There are only a few months in your life (per baby) that you will have the most glorious noticeable baby bump.. Sadly the bump takes months to show because before this people could mistake you for just putting on a few pounds. However, before you know it the birth will be done and your baby will be growing bigger every day and all the moments of your pregnancy will be a distant memory... You don't get this time back so let us capture these special memories for you to treasure forever.

We love meeting all the lovely Mums-to-Be when they come in for their Maternity - Bump Photography Sessions. Its lovely to capture all these moments and then meet the lovely newborns when they later come back for a newborn session. We would love to help you celebrate your journey into motherhood with one of our amazing Maternity Photography Sessions or one of our Bump Bowls Casts - Get in touch to check for availability and to book your session. 

If you know someone who is expecting and are looking for come lovely gift ideas then Brooke Duley who is a professional pregnancy photographer - Sunshine Coast has some fab ideas over on her blog - our you can purchase one of our gift vouchers HERE.

Love and Hugs

Nicole xx

incorporating pets into your family sessions

1. A leash. This will help you keep your pet near to you and where you want him or her for photos. (They aren’t just for dogs, you know.) Be sure to bring a thinner leash, as they are easier to hide or edit out if necessary.
2. A friend. Having someone come with you specifically to take care of your pet is ideal. This will help so that your pet is not running around all over the place or alone in the car, should you wish to take some photos without your dog.
3. Treats. Treats are great bribery for your animal and are a must if your doggy is treat focused. These will help keep your pet still and focused on the camera and make my job a lot easier.
4. A favourite toy. The noisier the better. This is also a great tool to help keep your pet’s attention on me. We can also use it for a fun game and get some fun interaction shots.

incorporating pets into your family sessions

Looking forward to seeing you all soon to capture all your family images – with or without a pet.

Love and Hugs

Nicole xx

incorporating pets into your family sessions

Now the days have got colder are you struggling to get your little one to wear their winter coat.. My friend Clare who is a Kent newborn photographer
 has written a lovely blog to help you get over this.. Pop on over and take a read..

Family pictures are great, they help you create and remember fond memories of your loving family, this time of year the studio is filled with lots of extended families, whilst we create the most amazing presents for mums, dads and grandparents. However, we realise this day can get very stressful and we want to ensure this doesn’t happen. If your stressed it will show, and we want your photos to be carefree, relaxed and perfect (they are going to hanging on your walls for many years to come)… Here are some tips you can use on the day of your photo-shoot to help relax you.

Family Photographer in Falkirk

• Take some deep breaths. Deep breathing is a common relaxation method. It can quickly calm your stress level and you can do it anywhere. Breathe in through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Counting slowly in your head while letting all that stress out. If the little ones are not behaving and won’t do what they are told – just breathe and relax – honestly, we have seen everything before.

• Laugh – Laughter is a great way to release tension. It will also help your family relax to get some genuine smiles. Have everyone pretend to laugh and they will feel so ridiculous they will actually laugh. If this fails we have lots of special things up our sleeves to help these laughs come – from squeaky chickens or making daddy dance.. Laughter is not only fun but it will ease everyone into a more relaxed mode.

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• Count Down Slowly in Your Head From 10 – Take a deep breath between each number if you are still feeling super stressed, start the process over – back at 10.

• Distract Yourself – If your family or dog isn’t cooperating and you are getting super stressed, just take yourself away and give us a second. When you are feeling stressed because your family is not behaving as you planned, then this stress can sometimes make matters worse. Just take yourself away for the situation and let us work our magic – getting stressed and shouting at the children/dog sometimes makes things worse.   

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• Trace Your Hand – Take your finger and trace a figure of eight on the palm of your opposite hand. This helps relieve stress and muscle tension.

• Give lots of XOXOs – Not only will these make for cute poses, but one of the most effective ways to relieve stress is to hug or kiss someone. Gather your family in a big group hug or give your husband a kiss and let your worries melt away.

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During your time at J’Adore Photography getting your family photography session done we can ensure you will have a lovely relaxed experience and we will work our hardest to get some gorgeous images of you and your family. Hope you have enjoys our blog and this has gave you some helpful hints and tips for your photo session. I love reading other photographers blog and I have just came across Hannah's - she is a Newborn Photographer, Willaston and she has written a blog about fundraising for Team Anna...  

If you haven't already booked your family photography session in time for the best Xmas pressies then make sure you get in touch ASAP because slots as filling up super quick. 

Looking forward to capturing your memories

Love and Hugs

Nicole xxx

I have lost count of the number of times i have been asked if I will do baby-sitting or if I can be called upon at 4 in the morning if the little one won't settle. I thought I would put together some handy tips which might help all you new mummies and daddies get through those first few months with a newborn.. hope it helps.... 

1) Swaddling – It surprises me how many parents haven’t heard about swaddling and don’t know how to do it. When you swaddle a baby it mimics the close feeling of being in the womb which making them feel all cosy and safe. Since their arms aren’t flapping about they tend to not startle and therefore settle and drift into sleep much easier than being free! If you are unsure how to swaddle your baby then click HERE for a great video tutorial to show you how to swaddle. 

Swaddled babies

2 - White noise – would you believe the womb is a really noisy place to be! With the sound of mummy's blood flow and everything going on outside of her body then it’s really not much of a surprise that babies will be more likely to settle in a slightly noisier environment. When our babies come home we think they want peace and quiet and quickly turn down the tv, tell people to shhh and put in a quiet room. The truth is babies hate silence, and the use of white noise or a shhh sound will help them settle.  I have also heard good things about Ewan the Dream Sheep but alternatively if you need help NOW then just switch on the hoover or a hairdryer.

cream baby

3 - Face stroking – I find a variety of face stroking techniques really help soothe an unsettled baby. Between running a finger over their forehead, stoking their cheek or nose really helps settle a baby. Stroke a finger down the middle of your own nose, you find your eyes naturally start to close so imagine someone doing this to you repeatedly while wrapped up all cosy, wont be long until you feel asleep.

baby in a basket

4-  Bum patting – I always find that a gentle pat on a babies bum will help settle them and drift them off to sleep. Gentle patting reminds them of the rhythmic motion inside the womb as well as the sound of their mother's heartbeat while they are in the womb.

babies

5 - Removing all stimulants – sometimes your baby can just become very overstimulated…noise, bum patting, bouncing, shushing etc alll wont work and you cant settle them down. The best thing to do in this situation is to swaddle your baby up, lay them down in a darkened room and leave them for a few mins and see if they will settle themselves. We sometimes just get caught up in the fact that we should be comforting our babies and sometimes they just need space to calm themselves. 

babies

I have had the job of photographing 1000's of babies in the studio so I have picked up lots of hints and tips and I hope these all help a bit! I would love to hear your tips and tricks if you use anything different to settle your little ones! Just leave a comment at the bottom of the post!

Love and Hugs

Nicole xxx

Need some inspiration when picking out props for your newborn session? Want to make it unique and personal? Check out these great ideas for adding sentiment to your photos.

• 1 - Recreate a parent Parent or sibling Sibling Photo

These types of photos show the same pose with different generations of your family. Show us a photo of you or your spouse when you were a newborn and let us create a similar photo with your child. If you have another child and want us to use one of their newborn photos to recreate instead, that would work too!

• 2 - Blankets

Bringing blankets with sentimental value helps add interest and a story to the photo, we love when mummies and daddies brings some blankets/shawls that someone has handmade or has been passed down through the generations. Blankets a wide variety of textures and colours.

baby in blanket

• 3 - Memories of Loved ones

If you have lost a love one then it is super special to include some of their items in your newborn session. We have included granny's nighties, granny's lockets, grandpas watch, Sands Teddy- bears, rings, books - anything that is special to you I would love to incorporate into your newborn session.

baby with necklace

• 4 - Something from your Childhood 

We can also incorporate things from your childhood or example: stuffed animals, clothes, your bassinet, dolls, a wagon, basket, blanket, etc. something that can be passed down to your child that meant something to you when you were younger.

baby with teddy

• 5 -Siblings’ Clothing

If you have another child and you have a favourite outfit that you used to put in when they were this size, this is a great time to bring that out and recreate some old memories.

Baby with hat

• 6 -Occupations/Hobbies

If you or your spouse love your job and want to add something from it or one of your hobbies, this will help add a personal touch. Some examples: dog tags, sports helmets, a baseball, guitar, football, briefcase, camera, jersey, or hat. Of course, we’re open to your ideas as well his is just to get the ideas flowing.

• 7 -Maternity photos

If you did a maternity session, you can do some similar poses with your baby and frame them side-by-side in your home or in an album. If you used an outfit or name blocks, ultrasound picture, etc. we can use those props again in these photos, too. We also offer Bump bowls at our studio with the amazing Lasting Memories. These bump bowls are only available for our pre-booked newborn clients and make the ideal unique prop for your newborn session - check out more details HERE.

BUMP BOWL

• 8 -Wedding Rings

This is a classic shot having your child hold your wedding rings in their little hands or placing them between their toes is a good way to incorporate your rings into the shot. Although this photo , it will be unique because they are your personal rings and they show the commitment and love that you and your spouse have for your family. Alternative idea if you have a little girl, we could also use your wedding garter as a headpiece.

I hope this has given you some ideas of some special props you can use during your newborn session. If you haven't already booked your newborn session with us then be sure to get in touch ASAP so we can check for availability and secure your slot. We would love to capture these special memories for you. 

If you little one is already passed the newborn stage then the next milestone to capture is a Sitter session, which is another favourite of ours. Our lovely friend Marie who is a Newborn photographer in Worcestershire has written a lovely blog explaining what a Sitter Session is - pop on over and have a read.

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

xx
 

When it comes to family picture day, a lot of stress is typically associated with the days leading up to the session and the session itself. If you speak to anyone who has been for a session at J'Adore Photography they will tell you that we aim to have your session as stress-free, relaxed and fun as possible. With being a family photographer, i'm here to help you relax and be prepared all at the same time, here are some handy tips for the lead up to your session at our Falkirk, photography studio. 
 

family imagefamily portrait

1. Find the outfits you want to wear a month in advance and set them aside somewhere safe. Then try them on a week ahead of time to ensure everything still fits comfortably and that you didn’t miss any stains or holes that you couldn’t see until they were being worn (also bring a few spare options just incase there are any unexpected surprises)

2. As soon as your family changes out of their chosen photo attire, make sure it is clean and ironed ready for the big day. Set the clothes together (sorted by person) and place them somewhere free from harm and dirt. Be sure to tell everyone that these are the picture clothes and should not be worn until picture day. This will help ensure no clothes go missing. Don’t, forget about shoes, jewellery, belts and other accessories.

family and baby

3. About three to four days prior to the session, start talking with your family members about the session and what will happen and how they should behave. If you plan on using a bribe then now is a good time to set that in place, Continue to talk to your children daily to prepare them for the session.

4. Two days prior to the session, pack a bag of everything you will need on picture day, snacks, props, bribery etc and put it somewhere you can grab it and go. Be sure to include wipes in case things get messy, an extra hairbrush, and other ‘emergency’ items such as hair clips and a back up lipstick.

family portrait

5.On the day of the session, make sure everyone is well fed, but no overfed. We don’t want anyone getting “hangry” (angry because they are so hungry) either. Do not get your family dressed in their photo clothes until after they have eaten, brushed their teeth. This will prevent spills and other messy accidents.

       6. If you have young children, avoid any coloured drinks the day of the session until after we have finished. Also, get them to wear a bib if they drink anything on the way to the session to save their shirts from wet spots or stains.

grandparents

To start off, I thought I would take this opportunity to tell you a little bit more about me for all of you that don't already know. I'm married to my high school sweetheart (Colin), mum to 2 kiddies (Morgan and Ethan) & 2 fur-babies (Walter & Ivy-Belle). We live in a gorgeous little cul-de-sac house in Polmont, Falkirk, Scotland. When i'm not in the studio you will either find me walking the dogs, snuggled up in front of the TV or down the gym working out (love a little combat and sprint classes at Falkirk Fitness).

I have been running my business J'Adore Photography nearly 10 years now and I can honestly say I have loved every minute, I love meeting new and existing clients and capturing lots of special memories for them to treasure forever. You will find me at my gorgeous studio at Burnbank Road, Falkirk.

J'Adore Photography - Studio - FalkirkFalkirk portrait studio

I love capturing all different types of photography from Newborn, Pet, Maternity, Cake Smash, Family, Fairy and Child. Through capturing different genres of photography I get to watch and document children growing from the very first Maternity session through to the family maybe extending with new brothers and sisters.

My love of photography started during my time at Queen Margaret University studying for my Media and Marketing degree during 2000-2004 (goodness I feel old). I loved taking images during my photography classes and learned on film... (How scary would this be today). During this time I loved photographing landscapes and street scenes (some of which were even hung in galleries). It was during these years that my passion began and my love of photography grew. I graduated with a 2.1 Honours degree in 2004 and continued photography as a hobby.

When me and Colin were searching for a wedding photographer in 2009 I realised that I couldn't find someone who captured things how I liked, I felt they were lacking the emotion and the little details that I found so important.... it was shortly after this that J'Adore Photography was born.. Then in 2012 I was delighted to be awarded my Licentiate status with the Societies of Wedding and Portrait Photographers and Qualified status with The Guild of Photographers.

Since then my business has grew from strength to strength, with lots of amazing clients coming to the studio each week. I have won numerous awards and was delighted to be crowned the Under 5 Xperience Photographer of the year 2018 at the end of last year. I have lots of images as finalists in the running this year and i'm hoping I can win something again. 

Photography is such a joy and passion for me and I believe everyone should exist in images - Sarah from Angel Eyes Photography is a photographer near Yeovil in Somerset and she is talking on her blog about the importance of parents being a part of their children’s photographs. This is something I think is so important and you can read her blog here https://www.angeleyesphotography.org.uk/blog/2019/10/exist-in-your-childrens-photographs
- Pop on over and check it out.. 

Looking forward to seeing you all soon

Love and Hugs

Nicole x

Well our judges have been super busy voting and they have now decided on a winner. Without further delay it gives me great pleasure to announce the winning fairy from our Scottish Fairy Experience held in August 2019

We would like to thank everyone that took part over the few days, we hope you and your children enjoyed it as much as us...  It was lovely to meet all of you and capture lots of gorgeous images for you to treasure for a lifetime

Congratulations to our gorgeous winning fairy

August 2019 Winner

Our winner will receive a stunning frame worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We have had lots of requests for more fairy experience dates and will be shortly launching our winter dates- if you would be interested then please register your interest HERE-and you will be the first to be notified of their release.  
 

Thanks
 

Nicole x

Well this has been a long time coming - I have had this vision for a while now and it has taken me a while to get everything in place... I am so excited to announce that Bump Casts are now available alongside our Newborn, Bump to Baby and My 1st Year Packages.

Bump casts are a wonderful way of documenting your baby's first home... A bump bowl cast is unique to Mum & Baby, it is a special way to capture that fleeting moment of your pregnancy and something you can treasure forever. ❤️

BUMP CASTING AT J'ADOREBUMP CASTING

We can now offer belly bowls for all our pre-booked newborn clients- this is the ideal way to capture your pregnancy. Lasting Memories Hand & Foot Casting will be available on selected days to carry out your professional bump casts - which will then be ready for your little ones newborn session at J'Adore Photography. (these casts are only available to pre-booked newborn clients)

A cast of your ‘bump' is taken around 36-38 weeks, then during your little ones Newborn session, we gently place them back inside their own personal little Bump bowl and capture this unforgettable image of how they fitted into your tummy - putting them back where it all started!! How amazing is that? Once you come to view your newborn images you can then take your bump cast home with you and have this displayed in your home - what an amazing keepsake to show to your child as he/ she grows. 

baby in a maternity bump cast

If you have already booked your newborn session with us then please message us to check for casting availability. If you haven't already booked your newborn session and want this opportunity for something different & unique then please get in touch for more details.

Thanks

Nic x

Here is some images of Laura going through her journey  - scroll down to see images from her recent session with me. 

What made you decide to get a shoot?
I had previously had it said to me about a progression shoot and I quite liked the idea of it. Just to see what the difference was. Also as a confidence builder. Having a disability that stops you from loosing weight and tightening up as easily as others, knocks it out of you so the photos were partly to get the confidence back.

How did you feel during the shoot?
Talking to Linda (my personal trainer) about it we thought about getting a  shoot from a different angle rather than just a fitness shoot, hence doing the underwear images too. I was so nervous and out of my comfort zone coming into the session but as we got started i began to relax more and more.

How did you feel seeing the images?
My self confidence is quite low, I spend hours criticising myself so I was really apprehensive about viewing the images but seeing them was just amazing. I genuinely couldn’t believe it was me in the photos.

Would you recommend this experience?
I would highly recommend getting a photo shoot of yourself. Just the boost of confidence is something in itself. It was a lovely relaxed environment during the session, which helped massively - i really enjoyed the whole experience with J'Adore Photography. 

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OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Ladies we need to celebrate us more, I would love to photograph more ladies in the studio... have you recently lost weight, went through a transformation or just want to celebrate you - Then get in touch for more details and to book a session in the studio... 

Love Nicole xxx

Well our judges have been super busy voting and they have now decided on a winner. Without further delay it gives me great pleasure to announce the winning fairy from our Scottish Fairy Experience held in May 2019

We would like to thank everyone that took part over the few days, we hope you and your children enjoyed it as much as us...  It was lovely to meet all of you and capture lots of gorgeous images for you to treasure for a lifetime

Congratulations to our gorgeous winning fairy

The Fairy Experience - May 2019 Winner

Our winner will receive a stunning frame worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We have had lots of requests for more fairy experience dates and are thinking of doing a special one day summer event - if you would be interested then please register your interest HERE- If the event goes ahead we will give away a space to one lucky pre-registered person ..
 

Thanks
 

Nicole x

However, our family photographs belong on the walls of our homes not only to decorate our house and make it feel more like a home but there is other benefits too. 

Psychologists have studied the effects of having photographs displayed in the home and there is some great positive effects. They have found that children who grow up with photographs displayed in the home grow up with a greater confidence and sense of belonging than those who didn't. Research has shown these children had stronger feelings of value and a better understanding of where they came from. 

However, its not just our children that benefit from us having photographs on the wall.... We also benefit - on they hard days - like when you get bad news or your kids just keep misbehaving and fighting all day. During these hard times seeing photographs on your walls take you to a happy memory and boost your spirits. I'm not saving photographs will solve all your problems but they will give you a boost, trigger a happy memory and give you a moment of gratitude for all the amazing people in your life. 

Do you have family photographs displayed in your home? If not get in touch to book your family session.

promise of excellence

I’ll bet you have used your phone to take a picture of your family this week?  You might have used your phone camera today, you maybe even use your camera every day.  It has never been easier to take photographs – we all carry a phone camera with us everyday .  And yet our children have fewer and fewer physical prints to hold and look at.

When I was a little girl, I used to love looking through all the photo albums my Granny kept in her living room cabinet. She has so many photographs, there was writing on the back with names I didn’t recognise and dates from long before I was born. I loved looking at all the old images It felt like I was looking at a mysterious forgotten time and I loved looking at the clothing, the old vehicles in the background and seeing how my gran looked as a young woman.  It was like I was time travelling. I could spend hours with they photographs and chatting with my gran about the people, places and times they pictured.

these are all me ;-) 

Imagine if those precious memories were instead sitting on something that needed a machine to let me see them.  A machine that was around in the 40’s or even the 70’s.  Even if my gran had kept the machines I’d needed, would just seeing them hold the same magic for me.  Definitely not.

So have a think about where you store your own family photographs.  Are they on your mobile phone?  A hard drive?  CD’s?  Mini discs? (remember those!?) Floppy discs?  You get my point – technology is changing so rapidly that it can be difficult to keep up.  The must-have storage of today is archived in favour of something new every few years.

The only way you can be sure to preserve your picture memories for your children and grandchildren is to print them.

Your Mobile Phone Pictures

For most of us, our mobile phones are where the majority of our ‘snaps’ are kept.  The everyday images of holidays, days out, toothy grins, first foods, and silly selfies.  These are the images your children will cherish when they grow up – you must print them!  And you have loads of options for printing from your mobile phone – my favourite is Free Prints and I use this app to print off mobile phone images every month, date the pack and i know my children will enjoy treasuring these for many many years to come. 

FREE PRINTS - 45 free prints a month

Your Professional Pictures

As well as the everyday images, most families choose a professional photographer like me to capture more important milestones. New additions to your family, birthdays, a new pet, or the annual family portrait, all involve a professional portrait photographer who can capture you all in a perfect setting, looking your best.  The portraits I produce at my photography studio in Falkirk, Scotland are your own personal works of art and are designed to be displayed in your family home.  There’s lots of evidence to show that it boosts self-esteem, confidence and contentment when your portraits are displayed in your home.

I offer clients print packages as well as wall art, and although I do sell USB’s which hold the digital copies of your images, I would always recommend purchasing prints and wall art products from me as I use a professional lab so I can guarantee the quality.  You don’t want to invest in beautiful portraits only to have them printed poorly. 

Time for new family portraits?  Click here to browse my portrait photography services

Well our judges have been super busy voting and they have now decided on a winner. Without further delay it gives me great pleasure to announce the winning fairy from our Scottish Fairy Experience held in November 2018

We would like to thank everyone that took part over the few days, we hope you and your children enjoyed it as much as us...  It was lovely to meet all of you and capture lots of gorgeous images for you to treasure for a lifetime

Congratulations to our gorgeous winning fairy

fairy experience Nov 2018

Our winner will receive a stunning frame worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We look forward to running the Fairy Experience again on 4th May 2019 when we will invite more gorgeous fairies and elves into the studio to enjoy this magical experience. Slots are available to book now - we are not sure if this will be our LAST ever event so slots are going very quickly - book your slot now to avoid disappointment.. For more details and to book your slot click here

Thanks
 

Nicole x

Well our judges have been super busy voting and they have now decided on a winner. Without further delay it gives me great pleasure to announce the winning fairy from our Scottish Fairy Experience held in May 2018

We would like to thank everyone that took part over the 4 days, we hope you and your children enjoyed it as much as us...  It was lovely to meet all of you and capture lots of gorgeous images for you to treasure for a lifetime

Congratulations to our gorgeous winning fairies

Winner May 2018

Our winner will receive a stunning frame worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We look forward to running the Fairy Experience again in Oct 2018 when we will invite more gorgeous fairies and elves into the studio to enjoy this magical experience. Slots are available to book now - we are not sure if this will be our LAST ever event so slots are going very quickly - book your slot now to avoid disappointment.. For more details and to book your slot click here

Thanks
 

Nicole x

fine art children

We love these styled images and would love to welcome you and your little ones into the studio to capture some images of your little ones. Interested in coming into to studio for one of these sessions then please get in touch with us to check for availability and more information. 

Thanks

Nic x

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA these images were taking during a training workshop with Paulina Duczman.

I honestly cannot put into words just how much I enjoyed photographing this young man. Ethan is now a whole 12-months old - they grow far too quickly... Mummy says it feels like it was only yesterday that she was bringing him home from the hospital!

ethans birthday images

He came along to his photography session at our studio in Falkirk, Scotland with his Mummy and Gran. They had been worried that he would be strange and not cooperate for his photo-shoot.. Ethan quickly proved them wrong when he became my friend and posed for lots of amazing images, giving mummy a very large selection of different images to remember this special time.

Here is a small selection of my favourite images from his session with us at J'Adore Photography. We love capturing all the special memories of your little ones growing up.... Time goes far too quickly and they grow far too fast - treasure every moment... 

Thanks for reading

Love

Nic xx

P.S. Want to learn more about my First Birthday Sessions or our Cake Smash and Splash sessions then please get in touch for more information.

Today I'd like you to meet some very special people: baby Daniel and his older sister Kia! Our newborn shoot was triumphantly successful and I am ecstatic about the images I was able to capture! We had such a lovely time during Daniel's Newborn Photography Session when they came to my photography studio in Falkirk, Scotland shortly after his arrival.  I am so glad they choose to book me for this session because I loved capturing lots of lovely images for them to treasure forever.

Kia and Danielbaby and sister

Kia is so happy to have a younger brother, and she made that apparent at our shoot! She was so loving and helpful towards her new baby brother and was a great extra pair of hands during the session. She even wants to be a photographer when she is older so it was lovely to have someone so young interested in what I was doing...

One thing's for certain – baby Daniel will always have someone looking out for him!

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As you can see from the pictures below, these little ones were so good during the session, and already share such a connection. I can’t wait to see how they interact as they get older!

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Thanks for reading and sharing this photography experience with us.... There is some more images from this session below. 

See you Soon

Nic x

p.s this little truck was made by Daniel's super talented daddy Martin and he has gifted it to me for future sessions... 

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newborn baby

I'm still flying high from one of the most amazing newborn photography sessions I've had in a while.  The adorable little lady in front of the lens, is the daughter of my good friends Jaime and Lisa. Mummy had booked her newborn photography session when she was still expecting, to ensure that we could fit in her new arrival when she decided to come into the world. She then contacted me when Lucia had arrived to arrange an exact day and time for the session. Lucia came into our photography studio in Falkirk, Scotland when she was only 10 days old, so still new enough to be posed to create these gorgeous newborn images. 

baby in hands

Baby Lucia was a little angel and slept peacefully through the majority of our session. I'm not gonna lie. When she showed up bright eyed and curious to our studio in Falkirk, I thought the session might have turned out a little tricky, but I was able to cuddle her and rock her to sleep resulting in us being able to get a full range of images for Mummy and Daddy. 

We have a full range of beautiful newborn props, backdrops, hats and headbands in the studio that we love to incorporate into your session. It was lovely to get a full range of different images for Mummy and Daddy, providing them with a good variety of different poses and props. 

Okay, no more talking (or would that be typing?). Check out little Lucia for yourself!

You may be seeing more of little Lucia in the very near future! I'm lucky enough to photograph her every few months with my Babies 1st Year package.

If you are currently expecting or have recently had a newborn and want to arrange your own newborn photography session - to capture all these special memories and get some gorgeous images to treasure for a lifetime then please get in touch. 

Thanks for reading

Love

Nic xxx

I just wanted to take a minute to talk about the importance of the pre-session warm up. What is this, you might ask?

This is the photographer-child interaction time that occurs before we begin the session. I always suggest that you show up a little bit early, 

maybe 5 minutes,to your session so we have this time to get to know each other. Especially with young children, it’s going to be a little bit 

scary interacting with someone they’ve never met before. We want to ensure we can really show off your child’s personality, so we want him 

or her to be comfortable with us and with the environment. 

little girl

If we were to just throw them into the middle of the session and there’s this stranger with a camera jumping around trying to get them to look

and smile, your child is going to tense up and there may even be confusion. We really just want everything to run smoothly.

little girl

If you can arrive early, this will give me time to introduce myself to your child, and to try to get a vibe on how the session will go. Some children 

warm up right away, while others need the entire warm up time to start to feel comfortable and come out of their shells. And that’s okay that’s OK. 

After I introduce myself, I will try to get to know your child. I’ll ask them him questions about what they he likes, what they he don’t like, sing songs, 

maybe play a game, etc. Just to break the ice a little, so by the time the session starts, they your child is are happy and more familiar with me. 

Making sure you’re there early enough to have this time is probably one of the most important tips I can give you for your child’s session.

Once we’ve done a session and your child realizes that I’m not scary and we have fun together, the next session shouldn’t need much warm up 

time at all, if any. But for the very first session together, it is a must.

sitter session  

Thanks

Nicole

x

I have had my own photography business in Falkirk, Scotland for nearly 8 years now and I love keeping my skills up to date with regular training and development. This was my sixth time at the annual convention and it was such a wonderful event. I was delighted to be asked to be part of the print handling team during the judging process of the 20x16 print competition. This is a worldwide competition so there was a vast number of prints in each and every category. It was lovely to see all these stunning images and watch all the different judges opinions on the images displayed. Here is me with my wonderful print handling team (love you Belinda and John) - excuse the lovely blue polo.. ;-) 

The event also gave me the opportunity to see some amazing inspirational photographers from all over the world speaking about their photography, their passion and sharing their knowledge. Photography can be a lonely job, when I am not shooting I spend hours editing on my own, with little company. This event allows me to meet with other like minded photographers and chat about photography, business and everything else. I have made many friends over the years attending this convention and it is lovely to catch up with each and every one of them. 

The convention also has a very large tradeshow,  this allowed me to meet up with all my current and potential new suppliers, researching new products to bring you the very best products that I can. I love feeling all the products so that I can check their quality and make sure it is something that I know you will love and want to have hanging in your home. I have found some gorgeous lovely items that I cant wait to be offering to you all. 

The event finishes with a large awards night, which is such a great end to the event. I love getting all dressed up, seeing all the fantastic photography and seeing lots of my friend scoop up awards... None for me (one day..... and I have promised myself to enter more this year).

I love this large group photograph, which is captured every year by my amazing friend Christina Lauder (who had a very successful awards night) - Hope you can spot me!!

Thanks for reading

Love

Nic xxx

What should I pack for labour?

• Your birth plan and maternity notes.
• Dressing gown. This can be useful when you are pacing corridors in the early stages of labour, hospitals can be very warm so try to pack a nice lightweight one.
• Backless slip-on slippers, that are easy to get on and off.
• Socks. Believe it or not, your feet can get cold during labour.
• Old t shirt or nightie (one that you feel super comfortable in). It will probably get a bit messy, so don't buy anything specially to wear in hospital.
• Massage oil or lotion if you would like to be massaged during your labour.
• Snacks and drinks for you while you are in labour
• Things to help you relax or pass the time, such as books, magazines, or a tablet computer.
• Hairbands or a clip. If you have long hair, you may want it tied up.
• A Tens Machine if you are planning on using one.
• Bottle of water – choose one with a sports lid
• Healthy, energy-boosting snacks – labour can be a long and tiring business

What should my birth partner pack?

• Water spray or a hand-held fan, to cool you down while you're in labour.
• Comfortable shoes. They may be pacing the corridors!
• A change of clothes. Your birth partner might not get the chance to have a shower for quite a while!
• Bendy straws, to help you to have a drink during labour.
• Swimwear, if they want to join you in a birth pool.
• Mobile phone and charger. If their mobile has a stopwatch/timer function, they can use it to help time your contractions. Or if they have a smartphone, there are apps available that can do the job for them.
• Digital camera or camera phone to take photos or a short film of the birth and early moments with your baby.
• Snacks and drinks. You don't want a dehydrated, hungry birth partner looking after you. If they bring some snacks and drinks with them, they can stay with you, rather than leaving the room to search for food!
• Magazines, newspaper, tablet and music – there’s often a lot of waiting
• Change for car park/vending machine – in the rush, this is easy to forget
• Contraction timing app – very handy indeed!

What shall I pack for after the birth?

• A going-home outfit. You'll need loose comfortable clothes to wear while you're in hospital and for the journey home. It will take a while for your tummy to go down, so you'll probably still need your maternity clothes when you get home.
• Handouts about how to get breastfeeding started, which you received at your antenatal classes. If you have a contact card for a breastfeeding counsellor or specialist, take that with you too.
• Nursing bras. Bring two or three.
• Breast pads.
• Maternity pads. Bring a couple of packs. Old pant or disposable maternity knickers
• Nightshirt or T-shirt. Front-opening shirts are useful in the early days of breastfeeding.
• Toiletries. Decant these into smaller bottles, or buy travel versions, to save on space in the postnatal ward. You may sweat more after birth, so take a deodorant.
• Towels, hairbrush, toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Old or cheap knickers, or disposable knickers. Don't bring your best ones as they will get messy.
• Nipple cream – works wonders on sore nipples during breastfeeding
• Eye mask and earplugs, to help you sleep on a brightly lit, noisy ward.
• Mobile phone and charger – let close friends and family know the happy news
• A comfy going home outfit – you’ll probably still look 5 to 6 months’ pregnant and you’ll want your clothes to be comfortable

What should I pack for my baby?

• Two or three sleepsuits and vests.
• Baby blanket. Although hospitals are very warm, your baby may need a blanket if it's chilly outside when you leave.
• Nappies, cotton wool, nappy bags Your newborn will go through as many as 12 in a day.
• Muslin squares, for mopping up any milk your baby brings up (possetting).
• One pair of socks or booties.
• Hat.
• Scratch mittens if the sleepsuits don’t have these built in
• One outfit for the trip home (all-in-one stretchy outfits are easiest).
• Baby car seat. Some hospitals won't let you leave by car without one.
• Jacket or snowsuit for winter babies (remove before placing your baby in a car seat)

Other bits and pieces

• Lip balm – the air on hospital wards can feel very dry
• Support pillow – hugely helpful for the first feed
• Contact lenses or glasses – only if you need them!
• Flannel or sponge – even a quick wash will help you feel fresher
• Disposable bags – useful for taking home dirty clothes

Happy Packing 

If you haven't already been in touch and booked in your newborn photography session for when your little bundle arrives - please ensure you get in touch asap to secure your slot so that we can capture these special first memories. 

Love Nic xx

drop me a text with DUE DATE (your due date) to 07912966299 and i will check for availability

Why Bribery is OK During Your Child’s Photo Session

Well photo-shoot day has eventually came and I know it can be super stressful if you have little ones. Finding the right outfits and ensuring everyone is available on the same day and time, getting everyone all ready and prepared and at the studio on time. However, once these tasks have all been nailed and you arrive at the studio and you have prepared everything perfectly – the worst happens – Your child won't cooperate….. Even after you have coached them for weeks to get them prepared and ready for the session.

I am here today to save you from this nightmare and help prevent this from happening with the power of bribery. I know some people frown upon this, however, they properly haven’t tried to get a two, four and six year old to follow their command and sit nicely together facing the same direction and smiling. Its no easy task, as a photographer, I’m going to give you the green light and tell you its ok to bribe your kids for the sake of good photos. And I will let you into a little secret – that the majority of our clients use some form of bribery to get the best results.

We have a very limited amount of time to get all the photos that you need, and I don’t want you to be stressed because little Tommy is having a meltdown or is hiding behind his hands for the entire session, sticking his tongue out or making a silly face. So, I welcome bribery with open arms.

Every child is different when it comes to bribery, They all have different personalities and like different things. Some children are motivated by sweeties, others pennies – you just need to find out what works best for your child.

Here is some suggestions that people we have noticed clients using and they have worked.

· Sweeties, Ice Cream or Fruit Snacks

· Dinner at their favourite restaurant after the session

· Later bedtime

· That awesome toy they have been drooling over

· Extra TV time

· A sleepover with a friend

· Pennies

· Extended playtime

· They don’t have to eat their Veggies at dinnertime

· Give them back a privilege that has been taken away the last time they were naughty

While these aren’t the only options we thought we would give you a starting point to brainstorm your own ideas that will help your child specifically to cooperate.

Thanks Nic xx

P.S the children in these images haven't necessarily been bribed these are just a few of my favourite child images 

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If you are planning on bringing a pet to your session, we are more than happy to have you do that. We love furry friends and are 

always pleased to add them into our sessions! Here are some things you should remember to bring to ensure everything goes smoothly:

1. A lead. This will help you keep your pet near to you and where you want him or her for photos. (They aren’t just for dogs, you

 know.)  Be sure to bring a thinner leash, as they are easier to hide or edit out if necessary.

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2. A friend. Having someone come with you specifically to take care of your pet is ideal. This will help so that your pet is not

 running around all over the place or alone in the car, should you wish to take some photos without Fido. 

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3. Treats. Treats are great bribery for your animal. It will help keep your pet still and focused on the camera.

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4. A favourite toy. The noisier the better. This is also a great tool to help keep your pet’s attention on me. We can also use it for a 

fun game and get some fun interaction shots.

Looking forward to capturing some lovely images of your furry baby

Love Nicole  xx

Well our judges have been super busy voting and they have now decided on a winner. Without further delay it gives me great pleasure to announce the winning fairy from our Scottish Fairy Experience held in May 2018

We would like to thank everyone that took part over the 4 days, we hope you and your children enjoyed it as much as us...  It was lovely to meet all of you and capture lots of gorgeous images for you to treasure for a lifetime

Congratulations to our gorgeous winning fairies

Winner May 2018

Our winner will receive a stunning frame worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We look forward to running the Fairy Experience again in July 2018 when we will invite more gorgeous fairies and elves into the studio to enjoy this magical experience. Slots are available to book now and are going quickly - book your slot now to avoid disappointment.. For more details and to book your slot click here

Thanks
 

Nicole x

Tips for Preparing for Your Child’s Session

child photography

Your session is right around the corner, are you ready? We have prepared a checklist of things for you to remember in order to help make sure your little ones is prepared for their big photo day..

1. Don’t forget to feed your child before the session. Also, pack snacks just in case hunger strikes again while we’re shooting.

2. Bring more than one outfit. Make sure you always have backup clothes just in case. And we suggest that you don’t change 

your child into their session clothing until after you have fed them. Also, be very careful with drinks, as well – only clear liquids in a safe cup. 

3. Let your child help when picking out their clothes for the session (unless they have a hideous sense of fashion.) By letting 

your child wear their favourite shirt or shoes, etc. this will help them feel more comfortable. If their choice of clothing is awful or 

doesn’t match, see if you can use that shirt as an undershirt or tell them him that they can put it on for a couple of shots at the 

end of the session. 

4. If you have a young child, try to schedule the session around their naptime so they she will be well -rested and happy for photos.

5. Have a bribery in place. Bring fruit snacks, candy, a toy, etc. and let them know that if they cooperates that they will get said bribery. 

Some parents have bribed their children by telling them if they are good, they can watch Netflix on Mummy or Daddy’s phone. Use 

whatever you think will work for your child to motivate them him to cooperate.

6. Bring along their favourite toy or blanket. This will help your child be comfortable in a new, unfamiliar surrounding. Just be 

prepared that this will probably become a prop in some of the photos, so bring something that is pleasing to the eyes or has 

sentimental value and you’d be okay with photos of it.

7. Talk to your child about the session and explain what’s going to happen. If your child is informed about the situation, 

it will be less scary for them when they come to the session. Tell them that they are going to meet a new friend who 

is going to take some pictures of them. Let them know that you’ll be there with them and that we are going to have lots 

of fun. We might change their clothes once or twice and ask them to sit a certain way. During the session, we can show 

them a couple of the photos so they she can put two and two together.

8. Bring Grandma (or someone else your child loves). Bringing along reinforcements is always a good plan. If grandma lives

 close by, or if your child’s favorite uncle has the day off of work, bring them him or her with you. You can use them this family 

member to help get your child to relax and laugh.

9. Wear sturdy shoes. It is a good idea to wear good, sturdy shoes to a session like this, as It’s hard challenging to chase a little one 

around in flip- flops or heels. During the session, I may ask you to grab them if they he keeps running out of the frame. My studio has a

large open space so children often like to explore..

children smiling

Looking forward to welcoming you all into the studio and capturing some gorgeous images to last a lifetime

See you Soon

Nicole

xx

Welcome back, my oh-so-amazing blog readers!

Today I'd like you to meet some very special people - Lillie and her older sister, Lexi! Our shoot was amazingly successful and I am head-over-heels about the shots I was able to capture! 

Newborn and sister

Lexi is so happy to have a younger sister, and she made that apparent at our shoot! She was so loving, helpful and great at following my instructions, which resulted in some amazing images for Mummy and Daddy, who were desperate for images of them together.  One thing's for certain – baby Lillie will always have someone looking out for her

As you can see from the pictures below, these little ones were so good during the session, and already share such a connection. 

I can’t wait to see how they interact as they get older!

Newborn Girl and Sister

I love capturing all the special memories of your new arrival during my newborn sessions. Siblings are always welcome so we can get some gorgeous sibling images and family shots if you wish. 

If you are expecting and looking to get some professional images once your little one arrives -  I advise to book during their pregnancy, most people book after their 1st scan. That means I can reserve some time in my diary, an exact date is then confirmed once your baby has arrived !

I do prioritise for newborns, so I may be able to fit you in if you've just had your baby so please get in touch - they are only young once. Lillies mum hadn't booked her newborn session so I was so delighted I managed to fit her in... Although she was slightly older when she came for her session but she was a little angel and posed like a dream..

newborn girl

Thanks for reading! 

See you again..

Love and Hugs 

Nic 

x  

Kids are completely unpredictable. They can be so adorable and easy going and laughing uncontrollably one minute, and the next minute, 

turn that charm off completely. They will typically smile for you all day long until you put them in front of a camera, then they freeze up 

like a deer in headlights. We want to avoid the gritted teeth and bug-eyed forced smiles during our session. 

baby smiling

Here are some things you can do: 

1. Make a list of things that your child thinks are are funny and send it to us prior to the session. This way, we can be prepared and 

add these things into our bag of tricks. 

2. Also give us a list of icebreakers for your child –. Tell us the kinds of shows they watch, music they listen to, friends’ names, 

favorite story, etc. This will give us something to talk to them about, and will help them  to forget that they’re are in front of the camera.

3. Practice phrases at home to see which ones will evoke the best smiles from your child. (Please, oh please, avoid “Say cheese!” unless 

that really works for you child.) 

4. Try out a couple of jokes with them. During the session, we can ask them to tell us a joke and this will typically loosen them up as they 

tell it to us.

5. If there is a song that your child loves, load it up to your phone and bring it along with you, or be prepared to sing it for them during the 

session.

6. Bring along a bribe (such as a toy, a trip to the zoo, etc.) try and show it to them, or remind them of it, during the session.

We look forward to meeting you at your session and capturing some gorgeous images to last a lifetime

smiling girl

See you Soon

Nicole

x

Well our judges have been super busy voting and they have now decided on a winner. Without further delay it gives me great pleasure to announce the winning fairy from our Scottish Fairy Experience held in October

We would like to thank everyone that took part over the 4 days, we hope you and your children enjoyed it as much as us...  It was lovely to meet all of you and capture lots of gorgeous images for you to treasure for a lifetime

Congratulations to our gorgeous winning fairy

The Fairy Experience October 2016 Winner

Our winner will receive a stunning 24" inch box frame, worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We look forward to running the Fairy Experience again in April 2017 when we will invite more gorgeous fairies and elves into the studio to enjoy this magical experience. Slots are available to book now and are going quickly - book your slot now to avoid disappointment.. For more details and to book your slot click here

Thanks
 

Nicole x

newborn image

The diary of a newborn and baby photographer is a complicated place! Nobody told your baby that they are expected to turn up for their portrait session and while some can’t wait to get here, some are fashionably late. This makes my diary a wonderfully fluid place!

When you first book your session you will be required to pay the booking fee (ONLY £20) to reserve your place in my diary. I take a limited number of newborn sessions each month so that I can ensure I can fit everybody in and work around midwife and health visitor appointments once baby is here. Once your baby arrives and you have settled back in at home just give me a call/email me/message me and we can then confirm the best date and time for your session.

Your portrait session will take place in my comfortable purpose designed photography studio in Falkirk, Stirlingshire. Newborn studios are not like traditional photography studios - they are designed to be warm and comfortable. I want you and your baby to feel relaxed and comfortable so you are able to feed on demand and put your feet up and relax (some new Mummies and Daddies even have a little snooze)

So that I can capture your baby perfectly while they are still so brand new, for most of the session your baby will be in their birthday suit. Newborn clothes never fit correctly so we don’t get to see all those beautiful details that say ‘hey I’m brand new!’ However, one of the downsides of this, is your baby is guaranteed to poop and/or pee on props, blankets, perhaps even me or you! This is just par for the course, something I’m used to dealing with on a daily basis and something I allow for. All of my blankets and props are washed after each session and I have plenty of cloths and towels to hand. You might want to pop a change of clothes for yourself into your changing bag, just incase the worse happens.

Your newborn portrait session can take up to three hours and the reason for this is your newborn will need feeding, cuddles and cleaning throughout the session which is baby led rather than photographer led!

I hope this article answers the many common questions but if you would like to book or discuss a session please contact me

I look forward to welcoming your little one into the studio and capturing some gorgeous images to last a lifetime

Thanks

Nic xx

We would like to thank everyone that took part over the 4 days, we hope you and your children enjoyed it as much as us...  It was lovely to meet all of you and capture lots of gorgeous images for you to treasure for a lifetime

Congratulations to Valentina - our gorgeous winning fairy

Fairy WinnerFairy Experience Scotland

Valentina will receive a stunning 24" inch box frame, worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We look forward to running the Fairy Experience again in October 2016 when we will invite more gorgeous fairies and elves into the studio to enjoy this magical experience. Slots are available to book now and are going quickly - book your slot now to avoid disappointment.. For more details and to book your slot click here

Thanks
 

Nicole x

2015 jadore photography

Thanks to each and everyone of you for an amazing year. We have had a great year capturing all your special memories and giving you some gorgeous images to treasure for a lifetime. We look forward to the coming years and capturing more memories for you all. All our work comes through recommendation, so i would like to personally thank each and everyone of you for all your help and support in spreading the J'Adore Love. 

Hope you all have had a wonderful Christmas and have a great New year. 

Love and Hugs

Nicole 

x

Congratulations to Katie - our gorgeous winning fairy
 

The Fairy Experience - Nov 2015The Fairy Experience - Nov 2015 Winner - fairy experience sessions held at J'Adore Photography - Falkirk, Scotland

Katie will receive a stunning 24" inch box frame, worth £300, of her winning image to proudly display in her home. 

We look forward to running the Fairy Experience again in 2016 when we will invite more gorgeous fairies and elves into the studio to enjoy this magical experience. Slots are available to book now and are going quickly - book your slot now to avoid disappointment.. For more details and to book your slot click here

Thanks
 

Nicole x

bridal preparations Musselburgh Harbor wedding

Their wedding was the first time I have photographed at The Quay and it was a stunning location, with amazing backdrops to create gorgeous images for them to treasure forever. 

Musselburgh Harbor wedding

I also managed to get some alone time with Mike, Stacey and Amy and during this time we went to Newhailes House, Historic Scotland. This was again such a stunning location, where we captured some gorgeous images of them all together. 

Scottish Wedding Photography

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Stacey and Mike for choosing me as their wedding photographer, It was a truly magical day, I was glad to be there to capture all these special memories for you to treasure forever. 

Thanks

Nic x

]]> (J'Adore Photography Ltd) puppy portraits photography falkirk dog https://www.jadorephotography.co.uk/blog/2015/8/alfies-puppy-session Sat, 08 Aug 2015 10:24:03 GMT https://www.jadorephotography.co.uk/blog/2015/6/who-says-no-to-work-with-children-and-animals-an-amazing-session-at-jadore-photography How many times have you heard the term "never work with Animals and Children"?  That is never the case at J'Adore Photography, children and your furry babies are always welcome in the studio, we love working to get some gorgeous images for you to treasure forever. 

Recently we had a newborn session with the gorgeous Isla, Isla came to her session with her big sister Murran, who is still a toddler and also the family dog, Molly. It was lovely to get some gorgeous baby photos of Isla but also some images with all three of them together for Mummy and Daddy. 

As a dog owner myself I know how important pets are to the family and I feel where possible they should be included within your family portraits. 

If you are expecting and are looking to get some gorgeous images of your newborn when they arrive please get in touch ASAP to check for availability

Thanks

Nicole 

Back to School Photography

Well the Summer Holidays haven't even started yet but here at J'Adore Photography we are already planning our Back to School Mini Sessions. We know how important a time it is when your little one starts school or goes into the next year in their school journey. 

We are again doing our Back to School Mini Sessions, which use all our lovely props and backdrops and gets you a lovely variety of images to capture all the special memories of your little ones school journey. These sessions only run over set days and fill up really quickly so please get in touch ASAP to secure your session. 

You can contact us online, via facebook,  text on 07912966299 or via email at [email protected]

Thanks

Nic 

x

I love photographing dancers and capturing their Elegance, Flexibility and Shape. Elliot was super excited during her session and we managed to capture lots of amazing images capturing these special moments (I won't share what Mummy had to say to Elliot to get some natural smiles ;-) ).

During the session I also captured some images with Elliot in a recent special wedding outfit and also some images of her playing dress up with her Gran's shoes. Little girls grow up so quickly and it is wonderful to capture them at this special time in their lives as it helps to treasure these memories forever. As a mum to a teenage daughter I know how quickly they mature and grow up so don't let these special times fade and get some professional portraits to treasure forever. 

Looking to get some gorgeous dance portraits then get in touch to check for availability for our dance photography sessions.

Contact us on 01324 630584 or email us at [email protected]

When did you last have a professional Portrait taken of you and your Dad? I know mine was as long ago as my wedding and it is something on my wish list to do soon.

Memories are so precious and it is lovely to capture these memories to last lifetimes and be passed through the generations.

Give the Gift of Photography.. We have a fantastic Father's Day offer during 20-22nd June ONLY when you can come into the fabulous studio in Falkirk, Scotland and have a mini session with your dad for only £20 - (which includes a mounted 10" image)

Digital and Print Collection

Have you seen our gorgeous digital and print collection? This is the perfect way to present and store the images from your session and treasure your memories to last a lifetime. 

We love this collection because not only does it give you the digital files with a licence to print but you also get 10 beautiful professionally printed images for you to display in your home, a gorgeous presentation box - all enclosed within a lovely gift bag. 

How Gorgeous is this?

Nic 

x

Congratulations to these gorgeous fairies
 

Both families will receive a stunning 24" inch box frame, worth £300 each, of their winning images to proudly display in their homes. 
 

We look forward to running the Fairy Experience again around Sep/Oct time when we will invite more gorgeous fairies and elves into the studio to enjoy this magical experience. Please make sure you like our facebook page to be kept up to date with our special events/promotions.
 

Thanks
 

Nicole x

Graduating from High School is the first major milestone in the lives of our children, these special moments should be captured so these memories can be treasured forever.. 

Nicole is a Multi Award winning photographer who would love to welcome you into her professional studio in Falkirk while she creates some amazing images of your teenagers, providing you with a great photography experience and more importantly gorgeous images to last a lifetime

J'Adore Photography Teen Sessions

Please get in touch ASAP if you want a teen session booked in as session fill up quickly...

Thanks

Between 1st-4th May 2015, we are delighted to be having the studio transformed into a magical fairy garden again and welcoming lots of little Fairies and Elves into the magical world of make believe. During this time we will transform lots of little ones into Fairies and Elves and capture lots of gorgeous images that you can treasure for generations to come.

Who can take Part?

We offer fairy experience sessions for girls age 0-14 and boys aged 0-6. We provide all costumes and props so you just need to worry about bringing your child to the studio and enjoying the experience. We would advise when booking your session you avoid nap and snack times so we can get the best possible images for you.

Siblings can have a joint fairy/elf session allowing you to get gorgeous images of them all together and individually.

How Much Does It Cost?

These "official" Fairy Experience sessions costs only £20, this is then refundable off any products you choose to purchase when you view your images after your session

The event is hosted to raise money for Falkirk for Mums and we are grateful for the support given by the wonderful Ria. We are overwhelmed by the support she gives local families and all the local discounts she secures Falkirk mums. If you don't already have a discount band we have these available for a donation of £1 to Falkirk for Mums.  

We would be most grateful for your support but would like to take this opportunity to highlight that there is no obligation to purchase anything. We would like to think our portraits sell themselves and there will be no hard selling techniques. We do offer a range of beautiful finished professional products, with packages starting from only £49, so we do have something for every budget.

The Competition

And that's not everything, you also select your favourite fairy/elf picture and this is then entered into our competition where our judges select their favourite image. There will be 2 winners who will both win a 24" box frame each (worth £500)

How can I book?

We do need to advise that these sessions sold out very quickly last year so please dont hesitate to secure your slot, Please call us on 01324 630584/ 07912966299 or you can email [email protected] or facebook us as www.facebook.com/jadorephotos 

Looking forward to seeing you all...

Nic x

I have used J'Adore photography on 3 occasions now and will continue to use in the future! Nicole is very professional with her work and makes you and the kids feel relaxed so you can enjoy your session without feeling rushed.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Its clear she loves what she does and the final products are amazing! So many people have commented on my pictures and I wouldn't recommend anyone else!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Donna Simpson

— with Lynsay Sherry and Robert White.

Its super simple to enter! Click HERE

1. Make sure you are a fan of J'Adore Photography on facebook
2. Like the giveaway image
3. Tag your friend in a comment & tell me which session you think they’d love to win

4. Winner will be randomly selected on 12th Jan 15 and you and your friend you nominated will both win a session of your choice.

Choose from: Maternity, Newborn, Older Baby , Family, Cake Smash, Teen or Pet session

Best of all you can choose a 10" print from your session of your favourite image.

If you don’t win don’t worry! Random entrants will receive little surprises in their inbox.

Don’t forget if you need photographs of your baby, family or older children.. Contact us here to get in quick!

Our gift vouchers can be for any sessions, Maternity, Newborn, Child, Cake Smash, Pet or Family  - and start from £30. You can also add on extra credit onto your gift voucher so your loved one can select some of our gorgeous products. Gift vouchers can also be purchased for someone who has already had a session at the studio so they can select some images/ products from their session.

If you are looking for a photography gift voucher then please get in touch ASAP to arrange your purchase, You can collect from the studio or we can post to you if that's easier.

Thanks

Nic

x

It was lovely to feel a great atmosphere within the town centre and seeing all the effort people made to dress up and also take part in all the activities. Loads of people participated in the treasure hunt, which resulted in groups of people walking in and around the local shops. 

Shopping local is really important in order to support local small businesses, To highlight the importance of this local shops boarded up the front of their shops to show how the high street would be effected if these businesses werent there. There are lots of fantastic shops offering lots of different services in Bo'ness. There is over 50 shops in the town centre and the treasure hunt helped highlight all these fantastic little shops on people doorsteps.. Unfortunately, if these shops aren't used, then you will lose them. Please help support small businesses by shopping local.