BLOG

Why a Photography Gift Certificate is the Perfect Christmas Gift for Your Loved One

Framed newborn and family portraits displayed above a neutral-toned sofa in a luxury living room.

Christmas is getting closer! This means you’ve probably already started looking for those perfect gifts for your loved ones. You want something personal, meaningful, and unique—something that goes beyond the usual go-to gifts like jewellery or perfume. While these gifts are lovely, have you thought about giving the gift of memories? A photography gift certificate...

Transformative Photoshoot for Women Over 40: Because You’re Worth It

Elegant black-and-white portrait of a confident woman over 40, taken during a studio photoshoot by Photography by Valentina in London.

I’m 44, and while I absolutely don’t think I’m anywhere near “old,” I’ve noticed a few changes—both physically and emotionally—since turning 40. The first thing I noticed was the unintentional weight gain. I haven’t changed my eating habits or exercise routine, but I’ve felt more general bloating. Clothes don’t quite fit the way they used...

Why December Babies Shine: Fascinating Facts You Didn’t Know

Newborn baby sleeping peacefully on a white blanket, captured by newborn photographer London – Photography by Valentina.

December Babies: Celebrating the Little Ones Born Under the Winter Sky December is a month often associated with festive celebrations, cosy nights by the fire, and the spirit of giving. But have you ever wondered about the unique traits of babies born in December? If you’re expecting a little one this month, or if you’re...

Add a comment...

Your email is never published or shared. Required fields are marked *

Why Writing Letters to Your Baby Makes Maternity Special

London maternity photography by Valentina — artistic black-and-white portraits celebrating pregnancy and connection.

There’s something truly magical about the journey to motherhood. From the first flutter of your baby’s heartbeat to those tiny kicks that make you smile, each moment is filled with emotions and memories that deserve to be cherished forever. This beautiful, fleeting time in a mother’s life is full of love, anticipation, and excitement, and...

Add a comment...

Your email is never published or shared. Required fields are marked *

Meaningful November-Inspired Baby Names You’ll Love

November-inspired baby names: mum with baby

November is a month of change, with the crispness of autumn in the air and the anticipation of the holiday season just around the corner. It’s a time of transformation, reflection, and warmth, perfectly reflected in the names inspired by this magical month. From vibrant autumn colours to celestial meanings, November-inspired baby names offer a...

November Babies: Embracing the Charms of Autumn Births

A happy dad kissing his girl captured by Valentina, a London family photographer.

I can’t believe November is here already! Along with cosy blankets, hot chocolate, and the anticipation of the festive season, it’s also a month filled with birthday celebrations. As someone who has both a brother and a cousin born in November, I know firsthand how special this time of year is for welcoming little ones...

Hello!

headshot of Valentina - London photographer

My name is Valentina. I'm a London baby and maternity photographer.

I share tips, curiosities, information, and more in this blog. Grab a cup of tea (or a glass of wine) and read away!

I'd love to read your comments.

 

 

Follow Me

Newborn sessions with siblings, especially toddlers, can be unpredictable.
Some days they are all in. Other days they aren’t. And that’s okay.

This big sister wasn’t very keen on being in the photos. So instead of forcing it, I gave her a different role. 
She became my assistant. 
She helped me photograph her baby brother and her parents.
Suddenly, she felt special. She was part of the process. And Mum still got the beautiful family photos she wanted.

I find that involving toddlers and giving them a job to do works magic. 
It shifts their energy from resistance to collaboration. 
Everyone feels seen. Everyone gets their moment.

This is what 15 years of experience looks like. Knowing when to adapt. Knowing how to make it work for every member of the family.

If you’re expecting a second baby and worried about how your toddler will handle a newborn session, don’t be. 

We’ll find a way to include them that feels right for everyone.

Want to chat about your family’s newborn session?

Let’s talk about what this could look like for you. DM me.

#londonnewbornphotographer #newbornphotoshoot #newbornbaby #newbornphotos
Through motherhood, we go through job titles quicker than in an entire career 

I personally went from 
Mamma → Mummy → Mum → Vale…
and now I’m just Bruh or Buddy. 🙈

They grow up fast and one day they won’t even want to be in the photo!

So let’s make the most of these Mummy years!

What’s the funniest name your kids have called you? Come on let’s have a laugh in the comments

#motherhood #mumhumour #mumlifebelike #parentlife #londonmums #photographybyvalentina
This is what happens when you book a newborn session with me.

You come to my studio. Maybe you’re tired. Maybe you’re overwhelmed. Maybe you’re wondering if this is worth it. Maybe all of the above!

You arrive, I welcome you in, offer you tea, and we slow down.
I guide you gently through everything, so you can just be present with your baby.

I capture the tiny details. The yawns. The way your family looks at this new little person. The love that’s already there.

And then picture this! A few weeks later, something arrives at your door.

Not just digital files. Not just photos on a screen.

But a beautiful album, designed for you, ready to hold and show your child one day.

That’s the difference between a photo session and what I create. 

It’s not just about capturing moments. It’s about preserving them in a way that lasts.

Your newborn days are fleeting. 
But this? This stays forever.

Ready to create your family’s heirloom?

#londonnewbornphotographer #londonmums #newbornshoot #newbornphotographertwickenham
Today is World Mental Health Day, and I want to say this gently: you don’t have to have it all together to be worthy of care, love, or rest.

Motherhood, creativity, business. They all carry invisible weights sometimes. 
It’s okay to set them down for a moment. 
It’s okay to just be.

There’s real courage in that stillness.

PS.  If this resonates, you might find comfort in my book Milk Tales. A collection of stories about the emotional side of motherhood, and the courage it takes to be honest about how we really feel.
If you need a soft space today, it’s waiting for you on Amazon.
facebook icon
pinterest logo

VALE@PHOTOGRAPHYBYVALENTINA.COM

07577 978246

LONDON NEWBORN & MATERNITY PHOTOGRAPHER

BASED NEAR RICHMOND - TWICKENHAM