The Temperature's rising...

It's a hot one! Another heatwave! And whilst we'd all like to lounge around eating ice cream and enjoying the shade, life goes on! Especially if you have a new baby! And whilst outdoor events are struggling and sometimes canceling your plans, the good news is Little Wonderland Photography has the no-how to keep going in the heat, so you don't miss out on the newborn photoshoot you've been dreaming of for the last 9 months!

The Breeze is getting low...

Keeping the environment around your new baby is key- keep them out of direct sun, head for shade. Before sessions I keep all of my blinds in my Widnes studio closed to keep out the hot morning sun. Windows are open and I have the added bonus of two skylight windows which means a breeze can really circulate, and I have a room thermometer to keep a close eye on just how warm it is.

Fans are our friends! I have two in the studio to circulate the air without having to aim the fan directly at the baby, avoiding the risk of their body temperature lowering too much. As babies lose body heat faster than adults and can't communicate when they feel too cold this is essential to avoid. Direct cool air and also dehydration and stuffiness by pulling moisture from their skin, which would lead to a very unsettled baby.

I'll also avoid using my studio lights for long periods as these too can add to heat in the room- and as much as I love a well lit image, I love your babies safety and comfort more!

According to all sources, my studio is where to go!

Lightweight clothing- for you and baby is key! The studio is shoe free so your feet will be nice and cool first of all!

During hot weather I'd encourage you to avoid choosing any of my heavier, woollen outfits, and have plenty of cotton and thin fabric options available for your use.

A plain white baby vest, sleeveless if possible is ideal if you'd like baby to wear their own clothes, or any light natural fibre (cotton/linen) outfits you have are great.

When wrapping babies, I may opt to strip baby down to their nappy before doing so, just to ensure they are cool as possible. I'll also work as quickly as I can so baby is wrapped for as short a time as possible. If they are showing any signs of discomfort I'll unwrap them immediately- but don't worry! I can still create beautiful moments and styling even when we have to adapt to the hot weather.

Fluids are also important for you all to conisder- make sure you bring cool drinks along with you for yourself and siblngs! Breastfed babies may want to feed more to keep hydrated- so you need to hydrate too!

Formula fed babies can be offered small amounts of cooled boiled water, but check with current NHS advice before doing so.