Welcome to Clare Barker Photography – Timeless Newborn Photography in Leeds 

Newborn Photography Sessions are suitable for babies up to 6 weeks old. 

Those first few weeks with your baby pass in a blur of tiny fingers, sleepy cuddles and brand new routines. Before you know it, they’ve already changed.

At Clare Barker Photography, I specialise in creating timeless newborn portraits that capture your baby exactly as they are in those early days. My calm, relaxed studio in Garforth, Leeds is designed to give new parents a peaceful experience while I gently photograph your baby’s delicate features and tiny details.

These are the photographs you will look back on years from now and remember just how small they once were.

A Relaxed, Bespoke Experience

Every newborn session is designed around you and your baby.

When you arrive at the studio, we’ll take a little time to chat about the style of images you love, any colours you prefer, and whether you’d like family photographs included. If you’re not quite sure what you’re drawn to yet, that’s completely fine - I’ll guide you throughout the session.

With over a decade of experience photographing newborns, my approach is always gentle, patient and baby-led, allowing plenty of time for feeding, settling and cuddles.

My goal is simple: to create a beautiful gallery of images that feel natural, timeless and completely personal to your family.

When is the Best Time for a Newborn Session?

The best time for newborn photography is between 5 and 21 days old, when babies are typically very sleepy and still naturally curled from the womb. This stage allows me to create those soft, peaceful newborn poses many parents love.

However, I understand that those first weeks can feel overwhelming, and leaving the house with a new baby isn’t always easy.

Newborn sessions can still take place up to around 6 weeks old, and beautiful images can be created at every stage. Older newborns are often a little more awake and expressive, which results in a slightly different style of portrait - just as special in its own way.

If you're unsure whether your baby is the “right age”, please don’t worry. I’m always happy to advise.

Booking Your Newborn Photography Session in Leeds

Newborn sessions can be booked in one of two ways, depending on whether your baby has already arrived or is still on the way.

Baby Already Here? 

If your baby has already arrived and is under 6 weeks old, you can book your newborn photography session online HERE.

If your baby is older than this and you would still love professional photos, please visit my Baby (6+ weeks) page. 

Baby Not Yet Arrive?

Most parents choose to reserve their newborn session during pregnancy to ensure availability.

When booking, simply select your due date as a placeholder. Once your baby arrives, we’ll arrange the exact session date within the ideal newborn window.

As I only take a limited number of newborn bookings each month, early booking is recommended.

Click HERE to reserve your session.

Newborn Photography Packages 

Clare Barker Photography is based in Garforth, Leeds however we have clients travelling from Wakefield, Wetherby, Harrogate, York and beyond for our Newborn Photo Shoots. I am always flexible on shoot times to accommodate your travel requirements so don't let that concern you. 

Frequently Asked Questions – Newborn Photography

1. When is the best time to book a newborn photoshoot?

It’s best to book your newborn session while you’re still pregnant, ideally in your second or third trimester. I only take a limited number of bookings per month to ensure availability.

2. How old should my baby be for a newborn photoshoot?

The ideal time for a newborn session is when your baby is between 5 and 21 days old. This is when babies are sleepiest and easiest to pose. However, I can still create beautiful images for older newborns if your baby is a bit past this window. Newborn shoots can be booked up to being being 6 weeks old. 

3. What happens if my baby arrives early or late?

I schedule newborn sessions based on your due date, but I allow flexibility in my calendar for early or late arrivals. As soon as your baby is born, just let me know, and we’ll finalize your session date.

4. Where does the photoshoot take place?

All newborn sessions take place in my Garforth, Leeds photography studio, which is designed to be warm, comfortable, and relaxing for both baby and parents.

5. How long does a newborn photoshoot take?

Sessions typically last 2 to 3 hours, allowing plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and capturing a variety of beautiful images.

6. What should we bring to the session?

You don’t need to bring much! I provide all the props, blankets, and wraps. However, I recommend bringing extra nappies, wipes, a dummy (if you use one), and any special items you’d like included in the photos.

7. Can parents and siblings be included in the photos?

Absolutely! I encourage parents and siblings to be part of the session. These family images are always some of the most cherished.

8. What should we wear for family photos?

Neutral, soft tones like whites, creams, and pastels work best. Avoid bold patterns and logos to keep the focus on the connection between you and your baby.

9. How much does a newborn photoshoot cost?

My newborn photography sessions start at £299 and go up to £499, depending on the package you choose. Each session includes a selection of beautifully edited digital images.

10. When will we receive our photos?

Your gallery will be ready within 2-3 weeks after your session. 

11. Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, I offer flexible payment plans to make it easier to spread the cost of your session. Just let me know if you’d like to set one up.

12. What if my baby won’t settle or sleep?

Don’t worry! I have years of experience soothing and posing newborns. The studio is kept warm, and I use gentle techniques to help your baby relax. If needed, we take breaks for feeding and cuddles.

13. How do I book a newborn session?

If your baby has already arrived, you can book your Newborn Photoshoot HERE. 

If you’re currently expecting, you can secure your newborn session in advance. Please select your baby’s due date when booking. This is not your photoshoot date - your session will be scheduled once your baby has arrived. Click HERE to book.