Newborn Sessions at Louise Pollitt Photography

Your Newborn Photographer in Leeds, Huddersfield and Halifax

You know how everybody says "they grow so fast"?
Well... you don't know how true it is until you turn around for a moment and your tiny newborn baby is now turning one, then taking their first steps... and then starting primary school.

I have always taken a great deal of photos of my children but I truly believe our most important memories should not be captured with a few "phone snaps" - they deserve the best.

This is what a newborn photoshoot at my studio in Birstall, close to Leeds, Huddersfield and Halifax can do: preserve those incredible first few weeks of your baby's life with beautiful photographs that won't go lost with your next phone upgrade.

About your newborn session

Your Newborn Photographer in Leeds, Huddersfield and Halifax

The first few weeks are overwhelming, I get it. I've walked in those shoes with my own babies and I know it all too well. The tiredness, the anxiety but also the overwhelming happiness existing in that 'bubble'.

That's why I pride my space on being comfortable, safe and an open environment, so that you can be open, laugh and cry and just be yourself - no judgement, no pressure.

Read my newborn safety guide here

I offer two types of newborn photoshoots: Sleepy-Posed shot at my studio or lifestyle shot in the comfort of your home.

Either way, your gallery will be shot in my signature style so you know exactly what to expect.

Keep scrolling to find out more about each session type.

Sleepy Posed newborn sessions take place at my specialist studio in Birstall, Batley, easily accessible from Leeds, Halifax and Huddersfield.

Sleepy Posed Newborn Session

Set in the studio in Leeds, close to Halifax and Huddersfield, this session is captured any time from birth to 12 days old, with 7 days being the very best age for baby and mum.

At 7 days, feeding is usually established and baby has settled in with the family. Baby is usually still sleepy at this age and happy to be swaddled and cuddled into a few lovely poses.

The session includes all props and wraps and I really love it when parents tell me what colours they love, so that I can capture images that they would love to display in their houses and also in babies nursery.

The session is usually 2-4 hours long depending on how well baby settles, and it can be helpful to feed baby on arrival in the studio to ensure he/she is full up for the session. It can get warm in the studio, so its advisable to wear layers - babies get colder than we do!

The results of these session are timeless, sleepy imagery of your baby in lots of lovely sleepy poses, often referred to as a fine art newborn image.

Lifestyle Newborn Session

Set in the comfort of your own home, I will visit you any time from birth to 4 months old, which is great if you have had a C-section and aren't wanting to venture out just yet.

This session is all about you being comfortable and capturing those first few weeks of life with your new baby.

I have many clients choose this session if they have siblings or a fur baby, because it means that the whole family can be involved and get in on the images, and whilst I do pose you a little - I really want to capture the natural moments that are accuring between you as a new family.

It's all really relaxed and you will feel completely at ease during your session.
This session aims to give you some classic photos and memories and is a real hands off approach to capturing baby in his/her natural environment.

Read more about the Wall Art I offer here

Newborn Session FAQs

When is the best time to book my leeds/halifax newborn session based ?

The best time to book is while you're still pregnant—ideally during your second or third trimester. This ensures I can reserve space around your due date and remain flexible once your baby arrives.

What age is best for a newborn session?

Newborn sessions are ideally photographed within the first 5–16 days after birth. During this time, babies tend to sleep more deeply and naturally curl into those beautiful newborn poses. However, older newborns can still be photographed, and every stage is just as special.

What if my baby arrives early or late?

Don't worry! I only book a limited number of newborn sessions each month to allow flexibility around due dates. Once your baby arrives, simply let me know within a day or two, and we'll arrange your session.

How long does a newborn session last?

Newborn sessions typically last 2–3 hours. This allows plenty of time for feeding, cuddles, nappy changes, and settling your baby. Everything is led by your baby's needs, so there's never any rush.

Where will the session take place?

Sessions take place in my warm, comfortable studio (or in your home if you offer lifestyle sessions), where everything is prepared to keep your baby cosy, safe, and relaxed.

Do I need to bring anything?

Just bring the essentials for your baby, such as extra nappies, wipes, bottles if bottle-feeding, a dummy (even if your baby doesn't usually use one, it can help settle them briefly), and any sentimental items you'd like included.

What should my baby wear?

Simple is best. Most of the session will feature your baby wrapped or styled using beautiful blankets, wraps, bonnets, and accessories provided by the studio.

What should parents and siblings wear?

Neutral, soft colours photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your family. Avoid large logos, bold patterns, or bright colours. Simple, timeless clothing creates beautiful images you'll love for years to come.

Can parents and siblings be included?

Absolutely! Family photographs are one of the most meaningful parts of your session. I encourage parents and siblings to be involved so we can capture your family's first precious memories together.

Is newborn photography safe?

Your baby's safety is always my highest priority. Every pose is baby-led, and I never force a baby into a position they're uncomfortable with. I have been trained in safe newborn posing and will always work at your baby's pace.

What if my baby won't sleep?

Please don't worry—this is completely normal. Some babies sleep throughout their session, while others prefer to stay awake. Beautiful images can be created whether your baby is asleep, stretching, yawning, or making eye contact.

My baby has flaky skin, baby acne, or scratches. Will you edit these?

Yes. Gentle professional retouching is included with every final image. Temporary blemishes such as flaky skin, scratches, baby acne, and redness can be softened while keeping your baby looking perfectly natural.

Can we include special items or heirlooms?

Absolutely. If you have a handmade blanket, family heirloom, favourite teddy, wedding veil, or another sentimental item, I'd be delighted to incorporate it where possible.

How long will it take to receive our gallery?

Your fully edited gallery will usually be ready within 2–3 weeks after your session. We will book you in for your viewing session where you will choose your package.

How many images will we receive?

The number of images depends on the collection you've chosen. Full details are provided before booking, and additional images may also be available to purchase.

Do you provide props and wraps?

Yes! I have a carefully curated collection of beautiful wraps, blankets, headbands, bonnets, baskets, and props in timeless, neutral tones. Everything is cleaned and prepared before each session.

What if my baby needs feeding during the session?

That's completely expected! We'll pause as often as needed for feeding, cuddles, and comforting. There is no time pressure—your baby's comfort always comes first.

Can I combine a maternity and newborn session?

Yes! Many families choose to book both together. Combining your maternity and newborn sessions is a wonderful way to document your journey into parenthood and often includes special package pricing.