Aby Rafter Photography | Photo Shoots for Families, Maternity an Newborns in Dorset

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17 April 2026 · Leave a Comment

When Should I Book My Newborn Photographer in Southbourne, Bournemouth? 

Baby· Newborn

(A Guide for Summer Due Dates)

If you’re expecting a baby this summer (June, July or August, such a lovely time to have a newborn), you might be starting to think about photos and wondering when you’re actually supposed to book your newborn photographer.

The short answer? Earlier than most people think.

But don’t worry, this is a completely relaxed guide to help you understand when to book, what to expect, and how it all works, especially if you’re based in Southbourne or Bournemouth.

When should I book my newborn photographer?

The best time to book your newborn photography session is during your pregnancy, ideally sometime after your 20-week scan.

Most parents in Bournemouth and Southbourne book a few months in advance, especially if they’re due in the summer. This doesn’t mean we’re locking in an exact date, because babies love to keep us guessing, but it does mean your due date is reserved in my diary.

Once baby arrives, we then arrange the actual session date.

Simple and stress-free.

Newborn curled in blanket asleep

Why summer due dates book up quickly

Summer is one of the busiest times of year for newborn photography in Bournemouth.

There are a few reasons for that:

  • More babies tend to be due
  • Families are generally out and about more
  • School holidays can make schedules a bit tighter

Because of this, newborn photographers in Southbourne and the surrounding areas often limit how many due dates they take on each month to make sure every family gets a calm, unhurried experience.

So booking ahead just means you won’t miss out and is one less thing to do when baby arrives.

What if my baby arrives early or late?

This is probably the biggest worry I hear, and honestly, you don’t need to stress about it at all.

When you book, I’ll note your due date, not a fixed session date.

Once your baby arrives, you simply get in touch and we’ll choose a time that works, usually within the first 1 to 2 weeks after birth, when babies are still lovely and sleepy.

If baby is early or decides to stay cosy a little longer, I always allow flexibility in my diary to accommodate that.

Why book a local Southbourne newborn photographer?

Choosing someone local to Southbourne or Bournemouth makes everything feel that little bit easier.

You’re not travelling far with a brand new baby, and you’re working with someone who understands how to create a calm, gentle experience for both you and your little one.

My approach to newborn photography is very natural and baby-led, no awkward posing or anything that feels forced. Just simple, relaxed images that focus on your baby exactly as they are in those first precious days.

What should I do to prepare?

Honestly, not much at all.

Newborn sessions are designed to be as easy as possible for you. You don’t need to worry about timing feeds perfectly or having everything “just right.”

I’ll guide you through everything on the day, and the session will always move at your baby’s pace.

Think of it as a calm little pause in those early days, a chance to slow down and soak it all in.

Newborn cuddled on mum's chest. black and white image

So, when is the best time to book?

If you’re currently pregnant and due this summer in Southbourne or Bournemouth, now is the perfect time to get booked in.

It means one less thing to think about later, and you can feel reassured knowing your newborn photos are taken care of.

And when your baby arrives, all you need to do is send a quick message. I’ll handle the rest.

If you have any questions at all, or you’d like to check availability for your due date, just get in touch. I’m always happy to chat things through, with no pressure at all.

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Chapter Two begins! These stages deserve to be ca Chapter Two begins!

These stages deserve to be captured and my milestone shoots are perfect for this. Simple and timeless and always so fun!

This little lady was SO sweet. Dancing and chatting away. She really made me miss my daughter at this age. 🥹

If you’re after a maternity, newborn, milestone or family shoot this summer get in touch as soon as you can as my diary is open and booking up! 🫶
Whhhhy do they grow so fast? 🥹 Honestly, those sw Whhhhy do they grow so fast? 🥹

Honestly, those sweet, sleepy newborn days pass in a blur… it’s one of the reasons I adore photographing this stage. It’s such a gentle, quiet kind of magic ✨
You deserve to have these moments to come back to.

I’m booking in Spring and Summer due dates. 
Send me a message if you’re interested in a newborn photoshoot in my Southbourne studio. ✨
Some sweet memories from this lovely newborn sessi Some sweet memories from this lovely newborn session. ✨

Forever obsessed with tiny toes and little fingers. I also love the timelessness of a black and white picture so always include in your gallery alongside the colour. 

Due a Spring or summer baby? Get in touch now if you’d like me to send you info about a newborn photoshoot in my studio in Southbourne. I’d love to meet you. 🫶
🤍Feeds and nappy changes are always welcomed and n 🤍Feeds and nappy changes are always welcomed and never rushed.

🤍You don’t need to know how to pose your baby. I will gently guide you every step of the way.

🤍Not sure what your baby should wear? I have a carefully chosen selection of baby outfits and blankets ready for you.

🤍Worried about how long it will take? Sessions are completely baby led, with plenty of time for cuddles and settling.

My studio in Southbourne is a calm, unhurried space for you to slow down and soak it all in 🤍

If you’re due this summer, I recommend booking your session in advance to secure a space. Just send me a message with your due date and email and I can send you more info. 🫶
Some sweet memories of turning ✨One✨ First Birthd Some sweet memories of turning ✨One✨

First Birthday milestone shoots can be booked in for between 11-13 months… it’s always good to get in touch and get in my diary if you want the pictures ready to share for their birthday. 🎈 

Just pop a message 🫶

Natural light photography studio in Southbourne. 
Maternity ✨ Newborn ✨ Milestones
Some precious moments from a special motherhood mi Some precious moments from a special motherhood mini shoot in March. 

Scroll to see all four beautiful generations. 🥹
Gosh I feel so lucky to do this job and meet such lovely families. 

April is shaping up to be another busy month! Please do reach out asap if you would like to get in my diary. I’d love to meet you and welcome you to my relaxed, cosy studio in Southbourne! 🤍
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