What Are the Different Types of Birthing Classes?

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Grasping the importance of birthing classes is key for expectant mothers preparing for the extraordinary adventure of giving birth. These classes are much more than mere sources of information; they are pillars of confidence and empowerment. Integral to prenatal preparation, they arm mothers-to-be with crucial skills and insights, turning nervousness into certainty. 

Welcoming these classes is like choosing a more enlightened, seamless journey into motherhood. Each class brings women closer to perfecting the craft of childbirth, making sure they are not only prepared but also robust and well-informed. Here, trepidation is replaced by tenacity, and doubts give way to clarity.

Lamaze Technique: A Popular Choice for Expectant Mothers

Lamaze Technique shines as a top choice for birthing classes, blending enlightening lessons, breath control practises, and calming techniques. This approach arms women for the birthing battle with unshakable confidence and serenity. At its heart lies controlled breathing, a key soldier in the fight against labour pain. It also spotlights the power of a supportive partner, casting the birthing adventure as a united journey. 

More than just body preparedness, Lamaze cultivates an empowering mindset, arming expectant mothers with wisdom and readiness. The charm of Lamaze springs from its hands-on, earthy strategies in taming labour pain while weaving a strong bond between the mother, her partner, and the baby they eagerly await.

The Bradley Method: Partner-Coached Childbirth

The Bradley Method transforms birthing classes with its innovative, partner-focused approach. This technique reshapes couples’ roles, turning partners into vital birth guides. Grounded in the belief of natural birth, it champions minimal medical interference. The Bradley Method strongly stresses the significance of a nutritious diet and consistent exercise during pregnancy, preparing mothers with sophisticated techniques to control labour pain effectively. 

These classes cover extensive labour strategies, concentrating on breathing and relaxation methods. It does more than just ready mothers for a natural birth; it fortifies the connection between partners, guaranteeing their united involvement in the birthing adventure. This method offers a thorough approach that encourages informed decisions, profound comprehension of the childbirth procedure, and the strength of a united partnership.

HypnoBirthing: The Power of Mindfulness and Relaxation

HypnoBirthing distinguishes itself in the realm of birthing classes as an oasis of calm and peace for pregnant women. This approach taps into the power of mindfulness and profound relaxation, reshaping the birth process into an experience of tranquillity and mastery. Through the use of guided imagery, breathing exercises, and visualisation, HypnoBirthing provides women with effective techniques to alleviate pain and reduce stress. 

This method goes beyond mere physical readiness; it represents a mental and emotional voyage towards a serene birth. The essence of HypnoBirthing is its ease and effectiveness, paving the way for a calm and empowering journey into childbirth. Adopting HypnoBirthing means embracing a peaceful entry into motherhood, transforming fear into assurance and serenity.

Birthing From Within: A Holistic Approach to Childbirth

Birthing From Within brings a distinctive approach to birthing classes, intertwining artistic creativity with essential childbirth readiness. This method motivates expectant mothers to tap into their innate strength and intuition, making the journey to childbirth an intimately personal experience. Through practices like meditation, visualisation, and artistic endeavours such as drawing or journaling, women develop a heightened sense of confidence and empowerment. 

More than just addressing the physical demands of childbirth, it fosters emotional and spiritual health. Birthing From Within cultivates a profound bond between mothers and their unborn children, encouraging them to view childbirth not merely as a clinical procedure but as a transformative personal milestone, abundant in significance and self-discovery.

The Alexander Technique: Improving Movement and Posture

The Alexander Technique brings a distinctive angle to birthing classes, concentrating on improving movement and posture. This often underappreciated method is a treasure for expectant mothers aiming for comfort and ease throughout pregnancy and delivery. It goes beyond just finding the correct positions; it’s about deepening the understanding of one’s own body. Through subtle exercises and skilled advice, the Alexander Technique educates pregnant women in refining their posture, enhancing their movement, and optimising their breathing. These abilities are crucial, aiding not just during labour but throughout the later, more uncomfortable stages of pregnancy. 

The holistic essence of this technique is what truly distinguishes it. It readies the body for childbirth and nurtures a mindset of tranquillity and command. Adopting this method promises a more conscious, body-aware birthing experience, setting it apart from other birthing classes. By incorporating the Alexander Technique into their prenatal routine, expectant mothers can anticipate a childbirth experience that is more harmonious with their bodies, potentially leading to a smoother and more fulfilling birth.

Choosing the Right Birthing Class for You

Choosing the ideal birthing class for your path to motherhood is a critical choice. It involves aligning your preferences, comfort, and learning style with the appropriate course. Think about class size – smaller groups usually offer more individual attention, whereas larger ones provide diverse experiences and viewpoints. The location’s importance can’t be overstated; ease of access significantly impacts your dedication and pleasure. Consider the teaching method that suits you best. Are you suited to a structured setup, or do you flourish in a more casual, conversational atmosphere? 

Additionally, ponder the focus of the class. Some prioritise medical insights, others centre on natural birth practices, and some find a middle ground. The involvement of your partner is equally essential. Methods like the Bradley Method highlight the role of the partner, enriching the experience and offering invaluable support during labour. Finally, the instructor’s credentials and style are vital. An instructor who is both knowledgeable and empathetic and who shares your birthing beliefs can significantly enrich your learning. The perfect birthing class for you is out there, poised to empower you with assurance and understanding for this extraordinary life event.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Motherhood

Selecting the appropriate birthing classes is a crucial step in the path to becoming a mother. This journey is an intricate mix of education, empowerment, and readiness, perfectly crafted for the wondrous voyage that awaits. These classes go beyond mere instruction; they are foundational blocks leading to a birth filled with confidence and knowledge. 

As you navigate this path, consider each class as a delicate stroke painting your unique motherhood journey. Approach this period with eagerness and openness, gearing up to embrace the most extraordinary treasure of life.

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Digitals, prints and wall art: what’s the best choice for your newborn images?

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Welcome to Paula Veverka Photography!

So, you are thinking about a newborn session… I’m thrilled that you are considering me as your photographer for capturing your baby’s first weeks of life.

As a mum myself, I understand how important it is to have beautiful images of your little one that you can cherish for years to come.

And, what’s better than showcasing those images in the perfect way with the right wall art!

In this blog post, I’m going to share with you some of the different wall art options available at Paula Veverka Photography to help you choose the right products to display your newborn images. Whether you’re a first-time mum-to-be or a seasoned parent, choosing the right wall art can be overwhelming.

But don’t worry, I’m here to help!

We’ll cover the benefits of digital images vs. printed artwork, and explain why printed artwork is a warm and tangible way to showcase your images that can be passed down from generation to generation as a family heirloom.

Plus, I’ll walk you through the different options available, including prints, canvases, and frames, and explain the differences between single and multi-aperture frames. So, let’s dive in!

Digital Images vs. Printed Artwork

When it comes to displaying your newborn images, you have two main options: digital images or printed artwork. Digital files offer flexibility, allowing you to print, share and use your photos in a variety of different ways. However, they come with some downsides too. Digital files rely on technology, and anything digital might not stand the test of time. Formats change, and files can get lost due to tech issues or hard drive failure.

Digital files are also very difficult to be passed on to future generation. Years from now, imagine giving your little one (then an adult) a beautiful album… versus a USB stick!

Printed artwork is a warm and tangible way to showcase your images that can be passed down from generation to generation as a family heirloom. Unlike digital files, printed artwork is not dependent on technology and can be enjoyed for years to come. They’re not just something that you can hold in your hands, but also display on your wall, and they add a touch of personality to your home decor.

Whether you’re looking for classic prints or modern canvases, I offer a range of products created using high-quality materials to ensure they last a lifetime.

Prints: A Classic Option

Prints are a classic and timeless way to showcase your newborn images. There’s something about holding a physical copy of your baby’s photo in your hands that makes it all the more special. It’s a tangible way to remember and cherish those precious moments.

At Paula Veverka Photography, we use a professional laboratory that only prints for professional photographers, ensuring the quality is top-notch.

Prints come in a range of sizes, types of paper and finishes, from matte to glossy, and everything in between. Choosing the right finish depends on your personal preference and where you plan to display them, but of course… I’m here to help!

At your viewing and ordering appointment I will have available for you a few recommended options that you can see in person… and touch!

Canvases: Turn Your Images into Art

If you’re looking for a modern yet elegantly rustic way to display your newborn images, canvases are a great option.

The combination of wood and canvas makes it for some stunning wall art for your home.

Of course, when it comes to frames (and wall art in general) the quality of the wooden structure used matters as much as the printing quality! I rely on professional labs for all your printed artwork, as this ensure that only use a high-quality materials are used… so whenever ordering wall art from me you’ll know that it’s built to last.

When you come to the studio for your session, you will find on display a range of different sizes and styles of products to choose from.

In addition to single statement pieces, I can also help you designing wall art collections, which are multiple canvases displayed together in a series. These are a great option if you want to create a more complex display with multiple images, for example combining a family image with a few portraits of your baby alone.

At your viewing and ordering appointment we will be able to discuss all option and even design mockups to show you what your final product will look like.

wall art paula veverka

Frames: Classic and Versatile

Frames are a classic and versatile way to display your newborn images, that can add a touch of timeless elegance to any room… including nursery!

Being able to choose between a range of frames and styles means creating art that perfectly fits your home.

Something you might not know is that frames are also available as a “multi aperture” product, meaning more than one images is included within the same framing structure (a bit like a collage, but created by combining multiple prints inside the same structure) – these are one of my best selling products, as parents love the idea of creating a visual story of their newborn session!

Single aperture frames are a great option if you have a single photo that you want to highlight or if you’re looking to create a more minimalist display.

Ahead of your session we will make sure to discuss these options, as knowing which products you love the most means we might be able to customise shots and setups to create the perfect images for your artwork.

Get in touch!

Whether you have already decided to book your session at Paula Veverka Photography or you simply want to discover more about my approach to working with newborn babies, don’t forget to get in touch as soon as possible during your pregnancy: not only this gives us an opportunity of sourcing props for your session if necessary, it also gives us a chance of discussing options for a Maternity Session at my studio in Glasgow!

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How old should a baby be at their newborn photoshoot?

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The newborn phase is a whirlwind of  night feeds, constant nappy changes, sweet snuggles, and cute baby gurgles. It is both a beautiful and chaotic phase in your life and your baby’s and passes in in the blink of an eye. 

For many parents, taking photos of their baby in the newborn phase is a special moment for the family and can create beautifully cherished memories. It is something you can only do once, becaus despite how those sleep-deprived nights feel, the newborn phase whizzes by quickly. 

In this article, we will discuss the best time to  have newborn photos taken  and what you can do if you have waited too long to book. There are many beautiful moments in a baby’s first year of life and we will show you how you can still have a gorgeous baby photoshoot at any stage.

What is the best age for a newborn photoshoot? 

Most newborn photoshoots are staged with the baby curled up in a cute position, sleeping and looking peaceful. In order to achieve this your baby has to be very young and still in that sleepy phase of their life. This means that most newborn photoshoots are booked in advance of the baby’s birth and usually take place in the first two weeks after the baby is born. 

For many, newborn baby photos hold many special memories and can be taken either in your home or in a warm studio with soft lighting and snuggly fabrics for your newborn to sleep on. There are many different styles of newborn photography, with many options to capture your baby curled up and sleeping soundly or in your arms in a sweet family portrait. 

It is best to do some research online as to the style of photographs you would like, as all photographers will offer you different options. Also  talk to your photographer about the type of photo you are hoping to achieve.

Your photographer will also provide a selection of props and outfits for your baby to help make the photos extra special. 

Can I still get beautiful photos with an older baby? 

The first two weeks of a baby’s life don’t always go to plan, and even if you have booked in advance and planned your newborn photoshoot, plans can change. For whatever reason, if you were unable to have  a newborn photoshoot don’t worry, you can still capture  truly stunning photos of your baby when they are a few weeks or months older. 

Newborn photographers are experienced with working with both young babies and children and will have quite a few tricks up their sleeves for getting beautiful photos. Even if your baby is past the newborn sleepy stage. 

Older babies still nap for long periods of time, often at least twice a day, so with some careful time management you still can get those sweet sleeping baby photos. However, if your baby is older and very active there are some other wonderful photo opportunities you can capture on film. 

3 months ( 12 weeks) 

At around 3 months babies are smiling and their eyes are fully open, taking in the world around them. It is the perfect time to capture those first smiles, photos of them interacting with their parents, or playing with a soft toy.

newborn photoshoots

3 – 4 months (12 – 16 weeks)

Between 3- 4 months babies are developing their neck strength, with exercises such as tummy time. At this age, babies do not need to be held or laid on their backs and they are much more alert and will interact with people and objects. It is the ideal time to get some beautiful photos of their little personality starting to shine. 

4-  9 months (17 – 26 weeks) 

Between 6 – 9  months babies start to sit up unaided and they are developing their hand-eye coordination. At this stage, you can expect to get some excellent photos of them sitting up  with a big smile on their face. It is also a great age if you would like siblings to join them as they can sit next to them and play. 

Babies at this age will naturally be reaching and grabbing objects so you can also stage a sweet photo with their favourite toys such as a teddy or ask your photographer about what props they have available. 

6- 10 months (27 – 34 weeks) 

At around 6-10  months babies are beginning to crawl, or in some cases, they are already expert crawlers and are a flurry of activity. This stage may be a bit more challenging as they are unlikely to sit still for long, however, this can create some excellent photo opportunities of your baby crawling toward the photographer, or images of baby inside a wooden box etc. Photographers will have many props that can contain baby for a moment, which will also make beautifully cute pictures. 

As your baby is a bit more robust at this age you can also consider an outdoors photoshoot and capture some exciting images of your baby exploring the surroundings of a nearby park or enjoying a gentle push on the swings. 

8 – 12 months (35 – 52 weeks)

Finally, at around 8 – 12 months, you can expect your baby to be on the move, exploring by either crawling or cruising by holding onto furniture or your hand. Some babies may even be walking at this age, taking their first wobbly steps either holding their parent’s hand or using a walking aid. It is a great time to take some photos of them in their element, discovering the world around them. This could include chasing bubbles in the park, enjoying a bath, or exploring pictures in a book by themselves. 

Of course, there is also the event that is their first birthday which is a very special milestone for any family, and one that you most certainly will want to capture. You can take some great photos of them receiving gifts or tasting their birthday cake. And of course then there are also cake smash photoshoots!

Final thoughts 

We hope that by the end of this article, we have either convinced you to book a newborn photoshoot or given you some great ideas for photos as your baby grows. However, no matter what age you choose to take a photo of your baby, you will be creating beautiful memories that you will cherish and look back on with love. 

Newborn Photoshoots at Paula Veverka Photography

Thinking about a session for your little one? Visit our dedicated page Paula Veverka is a specialist Maternity, Newborn and Baby photographer based in Blantyre, Glasgow.

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Newborn Sleeping Guide: All You Need To Know

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Becoming a parent is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences in life, but it can also be inundating and tiring. One of the biggest challenges that new parents face is getting their newborn to sleep through the night. Newborns have rather a tiny appetite and need to be fed frequently, which can disrupt their sleep patterns. They also have a lot of activity happening in their brains and bodies as they adjust to the outside world, making it hard for them to settle down and sleep.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about newborn sleep, including how much sleep your baby needs, how to create a safe and comfortable sleep environment and strategies for helping your baby to fall and stay asleep. So, let’s get you started!

How Much Sleep Do Newborns Need?

Newborns need a lot of sleep – up to 16-17 hours per day – but they tend to sleep in short bursts of around 2-4 hours at a time. This means that you may have to wake up frequently during the night to feed and care for your baby.

As your baby gets older, they will sleep for longer stretches and may only need to be fed every 3-4 hours.

By the time they are 3-4 months old, most babies will be able to sleep for around 6-8 hours at a time. You must keep in mind that every baby is different and will have their own unique sleep patterns. Some babies may sleep more or less than others, and this is completely normal.

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Sleep Environment

To help your newborn sleep well, it’s primary to create a safe and comfortable sleep environment. Here are some tips for doing so:

  • Use a firm, flat surface for your baby to sleep on, such as a crib or bassinet.
  • Avoid placing your baby on soft surfaces, such as a waterbed or couch, as these can increase the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
  • Keeping the room at a comfortable temperature – around 68-72°F (20-22°C) is ideal.
  • Use a fitted sheet on the crib mattress and avoid using loose bedding or pillows.
  • Remove any toys or stuffed animals from the crib to prevent your baby from rolling onto them.
  • Keep the noise and light levels in the room low to create a calm and soothing atmosphere.
  • If you’re using a pacifier, make sure it’s clean and in good condition.
Newborn Sleeping Guide

Newborn Sleeping Guide: Helping Your Newborn Fall Asleep

Once you’ve created a safe and comfortable sleep environment, there are some additional strategies that you can use to help your newborn fall asleep. These may include:

Swaddling

Swaddling can help your newborn feel calm, which can make it easier for them to fall asleep. To swaddle your baby, lay them on a flat surface and wrap a blanket around their body, tucking the edges in under their arms and between their legs.

White noise

White noise can help to drown out any external distractions and create a soothing environment for your baby. You can use a white noise machine or play calming music or sounds through a speaker.

Gentle rocking and massage

Gently rocking your baby in a rocking chair or holding them close and swaying can help to soothe them and encourage sleep. Moreover, massaging your baby’s back or legs can help to relax their muscles and promote sleep.

Feeding

Feeding your baby before bedtime can help to create a sense of fullness and comfort, which can encourage sleep. However, be sure not to overfeed your baby as this can lead to discomfort and may actually make it harder for them to fall asleep.

Sticking to a bedtime routine

Establishing a bedtime routine can help to signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. This can include activities such as a warm bath, reading a book, or singing a lullaby. Make sure you are being consistent.

Newborn Sleeping Guide: Dealing with Common Sleep Issues

Let’s continue our Newborn Sleeping Guide with some… sleepless nights!

Yes, because even with a safe and comfortable sleep environment and a bedtime routine in place, your newborn may still experience some common sleep issues. Here is the list of potential issues and some strategies for dealing with these issues.

Night waking

Newborns need to eat frequently and may wake up during the night to be fed. To make night feedings as easy and efficient as possible, keep a supply of diapers, wipes, and burp cloths within reach, and have a nightlight or flashlight handy to help you see.

Crying

Crying is a natural way for babies to communicate their needs, and it’s normal for newborns to cry a lot. However, if your baby is crying excessively or for no apparent reason, it’s important to try to figure out what might be causing the crying. Is your baby hungry, wet, or in need of a diaper change? Do they feel too hot or too cold? Are they in pain or discomfort? Once you’ve identified the cause of the crying, you can take steps to address it.

Colic

Colic is a common condition that causes newborns to cry excessively and inconsolably for no apparent reason. It usually starts when a baby is around 2-4 weeks old and peaks at around 6-8 weeks. Colic usually goes away on its own by the time a baby is 3-4 months old, but it can be distressing for both the baby and the parents. To help manage colic, you can try swaddling, rocking, and using white noise to soothe your baby, as well as feeding them in an upright position and burping them frequently to reduce gas.

Sleep regression

Around 4-6 months of age, your baby may experience sleep regression, which is when they start waking up more frequently during the night and have a harder time falling back asleep. Sleep regression is a normal part of development, as your baby’s sleep patterns are changing and they are learning new skills, such as rolling over and sitting up. To help your baby through this phase, try to stick to a consistent bedtime routine and be patient and understanding.

Newborn Sleeping Guide: goodnight little one…

Helping your newborn sleep well can be a challenging task, but with a safe and comfortable sleep environment, a bedtime routine, and strategies for dealing with common sleep issues, you can encourage healthy sleep habits that will benefit both you and your baby.

As a parent, it is your duty to be patient and understanding, as every baby is different and will have their own unique sleep patterns. With time and practice, you’ll find what works best for you and your baby to get a good night’s sleep.

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Newborn And Maternity Studio In Lanarkshire

Maternity And Newborn Photography Blantyre

New Signs & Maternity Gowns

Well, at last, we are about to start coming out of lockdown, and I can begin to start opening up the studio to my clients again. I cannot wait to see all these squishy babies!

Having this time off has given me the chance to look at my business and realise just how much I enjoy being a Newborn Photographer at my studio in Blantyre, Lanarkshire. It is the most rewarding style of photography I do. I just love seeing all these beautiful new babies and feel so humbled having the privilege to hold and photograph them.

I have purchased lots of new maternity gowns to offer the new package Supermodel Glow Sessions – Maternity Photography at our studio in Glasgow, Lanarkshire.

My new Bump To Baby Package is perfect for new mothers to come into the studio and have their hair and make-up styled before their photo session in our dedicated make-up room. I know it’s not for everyone, and some of us feel just awful throughout our pregnancy.  

But for those who would love to celebrate their bump, this is such a beautiful and pampering experience.

Looking gorgeous with stunningly styled hair and make-up, and then posed by myself in the most flattering of ways, dressed in gowns of tulle and much more! 

I previously photographed a lot of boudoir in my studio and still do on occasion. (I love helping ladies of all ages to feel great about their bodies and how they look) And so I have built up a wealth of experience about posing and lighting women’s bodies to look their absolute best.

Time For A Change

Outside in the studio grounds, work is starting too; all the signs are getting replaced. This has been long overdue and partly because I couldn’t decide what I wanted.
But I’ve had plenty of time to think about it, and with the help of my joiner and local sign company, Cubewrap, my signage will be looking its best again soon.

My office is looking so new and fresh, with new desks, wallpaper, and a feature wall as you walk in the door. Collections of wall art that will be available to clients and also part of my new packages.
It’s exciting to see the studio and office re-emerge from this period of imposed lockdown, refreshed and ready to invite all my new and old clients back.

When you arrive at the studio, I want you to know that every client appointment is spaced out to allow time to clean thoroughly.
All touch surfaces, like door handles etc, are sanitised as soon as a client leaves. I will be wearing a mask at all times, and hand sanitising stations are available as soon as you walk inside the door and placed all around both the office and the studio.

Having this protection level in the studio (especially cleaning door handles, etc) has been an excellent barrier against coronavirus and the common cold.
I have loved not catching a cold over the winter, something that just always seemed to happen.

I’m also hoping that lateral flow tests will be available here soon for everyone, as they are down south. This will be another great way for me to know that I am safe for my clients.

With all this in place, I want you to know that the studio has been deep cleaned and refreshed over this time off and is a safe, warm and inviting space for you and your new family to come to.

I can’t wait to see you all in the studio. I am hopeful that life is starting to come back to some sort of normality for us, with lots more businesses beginning to open.

And I can’t wait to see you all soon,

Paula x

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