Capturing Precious Moments: The Importance of Choosing the Right Newborn Photographer in Wirral

Welcoming a newborn into your family is an incredibly special and fleeting moment. As parents, you want to preserve those precious early days with stunning photographs that capture the essence of your little one’s arrival.

Choosing the right newborn photographer is crucial in ensuring you get timeless and heartwarming images that will last a lifetime. In Wirral, Derya Vicars Photography stands out as a top choice for many families seeking an experienced and talented newborn photographer.

Why Your Newborn Photographer Matters: The first few weeks of a baby’s life are a unique and magical time, filled with tiny details and fleeting expressions that change rapidly. A skilled newborn photographer understands the intricacies of working with delicate newborns, creating a safe and comfortable environment for both baby and parents. From the right lighting to the perfect poses, your newborn photographer plays a pivotal role in capturing these precious moments with artistry and care.

Derya Vicars Photography: A Trusted Choice in Wirral, Derya Vicars Photography has earned a stellar reputation as a go-to newborn photographer, and for good reason. Specialising in capturing the beauty and innocence of newborns, I combine my passion for photography with a deep understanding of the nuances of working with infants.

Here are a few reasons why I think Derya Vicars Photography stands out:

1. Professionalism and Experience: I bring years of experience to every photoshoot. As a professional newborn photographer, I understand  the importance of creating a calm and relaxed atmosphere for both baby and parents. My expertise in handling newborns ensures a safe and enjoyable experience during the session.
2. Artistic Vision: I have a unique artistic vision which shines through in every photograph. My ability to capture the essence of each baby’s personality and the love within the family results in timeless images that tell a beautiful story. From adorable poses to creative setups, my portfolio reflects my commitment to creating art that resonates with my clients.
3. Client Satisfaction: One of the best ways to gauge the quality of a photographer is through client reviews. Derya Vicars Photography boasts a collection of glowing Google reviews that speak volumes about the satisfaction of my clients. Positive feedback often highlights my professionalism, artistic talent, and ability to make the entire experience enjoyable.

Google Reviews That Speak Volumes: Let’s take a look at a few snippets from Derya Vicars Photography’s Google reviews:

• “Derya is a true artist. Her attention to detail and patience during our newborn photoshoot was outstanding. We couldn’t be happier with the final results!”
• “Choosing Derya as our newborn photographer was the best decision. She made us feel at ease throughout the session, and the pictures are simply breathtaking. Highly recommend!”
• “The care and dedication Derya puts into her work are evident in every photograph. Our family will cherish these images forever. Thank you, Derya!”

When it comes to selecting a newborn photographer, Derya Vicars Photography stands out as a reliable and talented choice. The combination of professionalism, artistic vision, and satisfied clients showcased in our Google reviews makes Derya Vicars Photography a top contender for families looking to capture the beauty of their newborn’s first moments.

Don’t settle for anything less than exceptional when it comes to preserving these precious memories – choose Derya Vicars Photography for an experience that goes beyond photography, creating timeless works of art that will be cherished for generations to come.

View our range of Newborn Sessions. 

Check out our Facebook Page.

Hypnobirthing : Does It Really Work? 

Is Hypnobirthing a trend which was started by Hippies or does it actually work? There are so many mums saying positive things about hypnobirthing. I tried it myself a little bit while I was expecting our 2nd baby. Unfortunately I wasn’t aware of the hypnobirthing classes but my lovely friend Emma gave me some CD’s which helped me to relax a lot. Funnily the day I fully listened to the CD I went into labour within 3 hours. It might have been just a coincidence but who knows but I was over due so I was over the moon when our little girl finally decided to meet us

We have recently had Terri Irvin in the studio for her commercial head shot photography session and we interviewed her about their Hypnobirthing courses.

Before sharing the interview with you here is a little summary of who Terri Irvin is and what TIME offers.

Terri Irvin is the founder of TIME (Terri Irving Managing Expectations) where they support parents through this beautiful transition of pregnancy and give techniques on how to embrace this wonderful change. By surrendering from fear and changing mindsets mums can nourish their mind, body and soul. TIME offers bespoke emotional and physical support as you embark on this maternal journey.

As well as providing pregnancy massage and breast feeing support  TIME also provides KG Hypnobirthing Parents’ Course as an in-depth, complete antenatal course that will help you give birth in a more calm & comfortable way.

You can either join her group classes where you can meet other parents and share your experiences with each other or you can have a one-to-one session with her in person. You can even have an online course if you can’t make the classes for some reasons.

What made you start your business?

I am a therapist by trade and have been part of the health and wellness industry for over two decades and travelled internationally as a trainer for luxury treatment and retail brands, training 5 star spas. I had enjoyed business management and national training roles but for me that industry was not enough. Having hypnobirthed myself and becoming a breastfeeding peer supported with Homestart a few years ago I decided to take the plunge and take wellness straight to the core and start TIME (Terri Irvin Managing Expectations).

I am Irish and defiantly have the gift of the gab but I love talking all things birth related and most of all giving my clients the best attention. I am fun, relaxed and most importantly  knowledgeable. I want the best for every client or mum I  meet and I will always sign post then to the most relevant information to help them on their pregnancy journey.

What is Hypnobirthing? 

I love to answer this question, as its the one I get asked the most. People are confused by the term. To be honest I was a little confused myself when I first researched resources for my own birth. Hynpobirthing is essentially getting your mind and body to work together. The course itself it broken down into four parts for ease. One of the main focus we teach is the antenatal preparation. The best part about the course is the duration is 12 hours. This means we have time to discuss in depth how the body is working during labour, this is a lightbulb moment for my clients. Even parents who have birthed before say they have learnt more on my course than any antenatal class they previously attended. This important step helps us to be more in-tune with our bodies and respond to its needs.

How does Hypnobirthing work? 

Our mind has been so cluttered with negativity surrounding birth. We are subjected to dramatised births on TV from a young age and everyone we know can’t wait to share their gory birth story. This can lead us to fear birth. These fears hideaway in our subconscious and without the right guidance can lead us to make uninformed decisions regarding our pregnancy care and birth which have an impact on our birth outcomes. Being informed helps us to make clearer decisions and stay in control of our birth experience.

What are the benefits of Hypnobirthing?

•    You may find you don’t need any pain relief at all.
•    It often shortens the length of labour.
•    You will be more alert and in control.
•    Hypnobirthing lessens the physical impact of childbirth.
•    The father is actively involved and knows that he has played an important role in the birth of his child.
•    Allows your baby to enter the world drug-free and in an atmosphere of calm and gentleness.

Using techniques such as self hypnosis helps us to reframe our mindset regarding birth and create a positive birthing environment where the body and mind work together to deliver baby. These techniques acquired in pregnancy will stay with parents through their lifetime and hopefully pass onto their children.

Hypnobirthing techniques should be practiced daily for maximum benefit so its important to use the CD material. Your course provider should give you the details that best reflect your course. It’s best to listen at night and fall asleep to so they fully embed in your subconscious. We actively encourage partners to get involved and read the hypnosis scripts as this is a beautiful bonding experience and will help create hormones essential for birth.

Can my partner attend the Hypnobirthing course? 

All partners are welcome to attend the course and I would say it’s a must. They begin to realise that they are Mums continuity of care and they learn how to help support mum in labour becoming the biggest caregiver. Feedback from partners following the course has been amazing they say it’s the first time they understand and feel part of the birth process.

Can I use the technic in hospital or is it just for home birthing?

Sessions are designed for any birth place location and I find that low risk parents often consider a home birth once the complete the course. Some parents wish to birth in hospital or a birth centre. Remember hypnobirthing is the practice you do before birth so the earlier your start the better. However, I love the phase “better late than ever”.

How many people will be on the course?

The groups are kept to a limit of 5 couples over the 2 days. Private one-to-one sessions are also available and clients can head to my website to receive a further discount. All course material is supplied. You will leave calmer, more relaxed and focused on a positive birth experience that will have life long health benefits for Mum & Baby.

When is the next session and where is it? 

The course is held over two consecutive weekends at Church Farm, Thurstaston, Wirral. The room is spacious, calm and quiet and the venue has ample convenient parking.  It is on the 6th of July and 13th of July. You can find more details via the below link. 

https://www.facebook.com/events/441813016606300/?event_time_id=441864989934436

Where can I find more details about your services? 

https://www.ti-me.co.uk/hypnobirthing

https://www.facebook.com/time.bumpandbeyond/

Baby-wearing : Slings

You must have seen these colourful cloth things which peoples to carry their babies close to their bodies. Yes, they are called slings. 

Slings are definitely not a new trend which was started by celebrities. The history of baby wearing is as old as humanity itself.

Our ancestors had to find food and shelter to stay alive and they walked hours for it. As it is dangerous to leave an infant alone they strapped their babies onto their bodies and carried on their daily tasks hands free.

I was introduced to using slings 5 years ago when we had our daughter and I loved the idea of carrying her on my chest and still be able to feed my older child and play with him. 

There are so many benefits of carrying your baby in a sling as long as you are aware of the safety aspects. 

Recently, we had a commercial head shot in the studio with a sling consultant Ruth Grint who is the founder of Carrying Connect.  During the photo shoot we also asked her some questions which she kindly answered and patiently. I thought that these questions would be useful for some parents and carers and demystify slings. 

What are benefits of slings?

Oh my goodness, don’t get me started! There are so many benefits, for baby, for mums, and for other carrying adults. I could right a whole article just about that, so let me just pick out a few.

Babies love to be close to their caregivers, and to be held snugly. They love to hear the heartbeat, the closeness helps babies to regulate their temperature and heart rate, and they feel secure and generally more content. It can help with baby’s digestion to be upright, and makes baby a part of your world.

For mums, carrying their child can reduce the chance of developing post natal depression. For mums who chose to breastfeed a sling can help to establish milk supply by keeping little one close, and for skin to skin contact. It helps her to take gentle exercise, and to build up core muscle strength. It can aid you to get out and about. Most of all, it satisfies that primitive urge to hold their child close.

For dads and other adults, using a sling gives you a fantastic chance to build a strong connection and bond with the new baby. It helps you to go places where you might otherwise struggle to get, and to give you free hands to get stuff done.

What are the safety aspects for using a sling?

Safety is the key consideration when using a sling. You need to ensure that the baby is able to breath, and that they are secure, no matter what age they are and what carrier you are using. 

Are there any safety check list so that carers will be sure they are doing it safely? 

All parents who have a consultation or workshop with me are guided through how to do safety and comfort checks, which should be done each and every time they carry their baby.

The most well known safety checks are the TICKS checks, which can be found here http://babyslingsafety.co.uk/

When is the best time to start thinking about getting a sling? During pregnancy or after having the baby? 

You can start thinking about slings and carriers for you baby as soon as you know you are expecting! Most families wait until a bit nearer the time, but whenever suits you is fine. If you attend a workshop or have a consultation with me, you will be able to practice with a demonstration doll, including once which is designed with soft legs in case you have a bump to deal with! It is always worth thinking about what time of year your newborn is due, as this may influence your choice of sling or carrier. The advantage is that you can have the sling ready for as soon as the baby arrives.

Some people prefer to wait until their baby arrives, and that is fine too  

Can you carry newborn babies in a sling? 

Most newborn babies can usually be carried by dad or other grown ups from hours after birth. For mums, it boils down to how soon you feel ready. If you feel safe to be able to carry your baby in arms, you are probably fine to use a sling. Listen to your body, if you feel unable to carry or it causes you discomfort, stop.

If your baby is small, premature or either of you has additional health considerations, it is worth getting hands on help from a babywearing expert such as myself to ensure safety, and the most suitable options.

When it comes to choosing a sling suitable for a newborn, many types of slings are suitable. I am happy to provide further advice on the choices what may suit you and your family, there is no one size fits all solution!

What is the difference between buying a sling from a shelf or from a consultant? 

There are many advantages to buying a sling from a consultant. 

Consultants are fully trained and insured, having completed at least 4 days of intensive training in all different types of slings. It is my job to ensure that you love your sling, and that you able to carry confidently, comfortably and above all safely. Shop staff are likely to have received limited training (if any) only in the brands of sling that they stock. Many people have found that even though some high street carriers claim to be suitable for newborn babies they struggle to get a snug fit, and it knocks their confidence. 

As a Consultant I am not tied to one particular type or brand of sling, in fact I have access to around 30 different brands of sling to help you to find the one that suits you the best. The typical high street baby shop may only have 3 or 4 different slings to chose from.

If I am an authorised stockist for the brand you chose I can order it in for you within a few days, so you can chose the particular colour you want – shops often only stock black! If I don’t stock it, I can refer you on to other reputable businesses that do, often with a discount. While saving you money on the cost of a carrier is important, the best way I can save you money is by finding you a sling you love the first time you buy, rather than buying various different ones that don’t suit.

For many slings, I can also offer you the chance to hire before you buy, so you know that you are making the right decision.

Anyone purchasing from me also gets access to my expertise for advice afterwards, such as straight forward trouble shooting.

Are slings make babies clingy? 

In a word, no! Babies by nature want to be kept close to their caregiver, and slings can make easier what nature intends! When a baby wants to be close, a sling can give a parent their hands back, to enable them to care for another child, have something to eat or drink, or get out and about, whilst still fulfilling the needs of their young baby. Evidence shows that babies that have a secure attachment to their parent are likely to be more, rather than less independent as they get older. 

What is the difference between a sling and a carrier?

Slings have historically referred to cloth ways of carrying a baby, whereas a carrier has been more structured. In reality, the terms are often used interchangeably, so don’t worry! 

Where do you do your consultants?

I offer consultations on the Wirral, and slightly further afield (mileage charges may apply). I also run small group workshops on the Wirral.

 Do you do home visits? 

Yes, I offer consultations in your own home. This can be before baby arrives, when you have a newborn baby, or if you have perhaps a working partner who wants to attend. You don’t have to worry about getting out of the house, I will bring a selection of slings to your house along with demo dolls for a bespoke session catering to your needs. I am able to offer consultations during the day, in the evenings, and at weekends. 

[See image gallery at deryavicarsphotography.co.uk] What made you start your business? 

In November 2017 my organised, ordered life changed forever. The arrival of my son, complete with reflux, turned my life upside down. My idealised vision of motherhood was a little bundle cooing contentedly in his cot, feeding on a schedule, and sleeping in the night. Reality was living with a screaming octopus who didn’t want to be put down. Change, feed, change, puke, repeat. Those first few weeks were tough. I had the feeling that nothing I did as a parent seemed to help my little one. I dreaded my husband going back to work, how on earth would I manage on my own? My family was far away, and I felt alone.

A gentle suggestion from a friend that a sling might be useful was to change our parenting journey forever. The moment that I put my screaming little boy in a stretchy wrap, he settled, and within minutes he was asleep .

Keeping him upright after feeds seem to reduce his reflux symptoms. He seemed to gain comfort just from being cuddled up close. As the days and weeks went by we all discovered so many benefits of carrying our baby. We got out and about to places we may otherwise avoid. We had free hands to be able to open doors, have drinks, and pet the cat. When Matthew was cranky, gentle swaying and singing in the sling was often enough to calm him down. We picked  up on his feeding cues early, and found ourselves chatting away to Matthew as if he was part of the family… which he was! We have met many lovely families who also use slings, random conversations at the zoo and Ikea are common.

My pregnancy had been deeply affected by Antenatal depression, and I had been so worried that I would not bond with my baby. Being close to him helped so much with building our relationship. I will never underestimate the effect it had on my mental health. The connection that I felt with him was the inspiration behind the Carrying Connects name.

Realising that I wanted to help other families to discover the benefits of slings, I trained as a Peer Supporter, and then a Consultant, with Slingababy.  I know at least a little bit about a lot of slings and carriers, and their advantages and disadvantages. I can help you to chose something new, or help you to use a sling or carrier that you already have. Safety and comfort are key for you and your child.

I have the lovely privilege of being to support families expecting a new arrival, those with newborn babies, or those with older children who they would love to carry. Above all, I am a fellow parent who remembers well what a struggle those early days can be. I don’t pretend to know everything about parenting, but I can often signpost families in the direction of other groups and support available in the local area. Slings made such a massive difference for us that I want to share the love all over the Wirral.

Where can you find Ruth

https://www.carryingconnects.com

https://www.facebook.com/carryingconnects/

Charlie the little boy with a gifted heart

Recently, we had a very special Family Photo Session in our studio. It was for gorgeous Charlie and his little twin sisters Lizzy and Rosie.

The photo sessions are always a bit challenging with toddlers but this time it was even more challenging because we had a toddler and also his sisters who were just under 1 year old.

After the photo shoot Charlie celebrated his 2nd birthday and the girls celebrated their 1st birthdays. As a lovely coincidence they all share the same birthday – 13th of January.

At Derya Vicars Photography we love a challenge especially when we know the photo shoot is extra special for the family; especially after all those tough months in hospital and also they drove quite far to come to our studio so we had to nail this session.

For those who don’t know Charlie’s story in October 2017 Charlie at the age of 9 months he was taken ill very suddenly, and was diagnosed with Dilated Cardiomyopathy and a short time later he was transferred to the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle.

Shortly, after he was placed on the Urgent transplant list and fitted with an LVAD (left ventricular assist device) to help his heart function.

Scott House, funded by The Sick Children’s Trust, enabled his family to be with Charlie since arriving in Newcastle and where Charlie would remain in hospital until he received the gift of a new heart.

Charlie spent 5 months in hospital, during which time he celebrated his first Christmas, first birthday and the birth of his baby sisters twins Lizzy and Rosie.

In February 2018 Charlie received his life saving heart transplant.

As you can imagine Charlie’s donor and his family never left Charlie’s parent’s thoughts.

In honour of the donor’s family and to show their gratefulness, Charlie’s parents are still raising money for a charity called Child Bereavement UK who support families experiencing the loss of a loved one.

Charlie’s parents are also raising money for Scott House for the Sick Children’s Trust.

[See image gallery at deryavicarsphotography.co.uk] If you would like to kindly donate to this charities you can find the links below:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/charlies-heart?fbclid=IwAR2ZgPKBFa7Dk4mRGr-fPPdtQJg1IzdE2FjF1ePTYENAG9Fm-HWMsByw-Sg

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/alison-pratt3?fbclid=IwAR19xxpwUQz-65EjCnYj4Engo6by572MLlNmwBmGHRfu9RxhDmDm36gjKqY

Charlie is now 2 years old and is growing up to be a loving, caring and funny little boy.

At Derya Vicars Photography we were really honoured to capture some lovely memories for this special family to cherish forever.

Derya Vicars Photography Wirral Photo Studio based in Hoylake.

Christmas Gift Ideas

It’s that time of year when you think Christmas is ages away, and the next thing it’s Christmas Day tomorrow and you’re running round the high street looking for gifts!

Well this year, why not make your life that little bit easier and shop locally. There are some great offers and ideas out there, and best of all it supports your local community and keeps your high street looking lively and ready for business.

Living in Wirral means we’re surrounded by Rivers, the sea, the Countryside and lot’s of little businesses providing a range of services. So I thought I would put together my Top 10 Wirral Gift Ideas to help you find something that little bit different this year. Let’s face it the prospect of receiving socks is not something to look forward to!

As a small business owner I do all I can to support local businesses in the Wirral area. The products and services are just some of a lot I’ve used or I’ve used with my family. From days out, to cafes, to relaxing with my children or treating myself!

1. Derya Vicars Photography – Photo Sessions and Gift Certificates

Well it has to be me first in the list, doesn’t it? With our photo shoot sessions we offer a relaxing session, no hassle, with no pushy sales. We are offering a limited number of gift certificates from our Christmas Gift Shop for some of our most popular photo sessions. We cover newborn, maternity, sitter, family portraits, cake smash and even school & graduation photos. 

www.deryavicarsphotography.co.uk   |   www.facebook.com/deryasphotography   |   www.deryavicarsphotography.co.uk/christmas-gift-shop 

2. Church Farm – Fun Day Out

Oh the animals, soooooo cute. Rides around the farm in a tractor, sand pit play area with diggers. All you’d expect to see at a farm with a lovely cafe and shop on site. They have lots of events on at the moment and all year round. 

https://www.churchfarmevents.co.uk   |   https://www.facebook.com/churchfarmwirral/

3. Moo Music – Interactive Music Session for Children

Both of my children loved Moo Music, such lovely sessions and great for the social circle. A six week voucher for mixed Moo classes is £30 and a baby Moo voucher is £24, contact Lindsey. You can even buy a CD of the music which is great for the car. Lindsey also did a Moo Music session at home for my daughter’s birthday party – all the kids loved it.

https://www.moo-music.co.uk/areas/westwirral   |   https://www.facebook.com/Moomusicwirralws/

4. Bought with Love – Interior shop 

It’s hard not to spot something to love in this shop, Claire has such an eye for the most beautiful of things and makes lovely collections. She’s been in lots of local publications due to her home interior designs. 

http://www.boughtwithloveinteriors.co.uk   |   https://www.facebook.com/boughtwithloveinteriors/

5. Little Lambs – First Aid Course

It’s really important to ensure we’re all aware and training in First Aid, hoping that we never need to use our skills. Emma is just a star when it comes to First Aid for our little ones; her courses are a must for any parent. 

https://www.facebook.com/littlelambsfirstaid/

6. Rosie Lea Tea Room – Afternoon Tea for Two

This is my go to place for lunch, a coffee, a chat, or our family breakfasts. Sam and Eve are so welcoming and have so many regular customers. The cafe is decorated with some lovely old pictures. If you love the Royal Family you’ll be in good company here.

https://www.facebook.com/rosieleatearoom/

7. Paula Honey – Baby Massage Course

You’re going to have to be quick to get this great deal from Paula, courses starting in January. For those who have newborns this is a great way to meet new mums and create a new social circle. 

Paula’s January sale – £35 instead of £45 for a 5 week baby massage course at Bromborough Bowl; Monday’s 10am-11am. Group starting 7th January 2019.
Massage oil and colour manual included.

https://www.facebook.com/Paula-Honey-Baby-Massage-395934890773345/

8. Glamourfied Beauty Salon – Make-up, Blading, Waxing

The girls at Glamourfied are just FAB! You can even have them for one of my studio sessions where they will pamper you before your shoot and they have a Beauty Salon in Liscard but be sure to book as they’re always busy. 

https://www.facebook.com/Glamourfied-Beauty-165592037496657/

9. Bubbles’ World of Play

This place is so big with so much for the little ones to do. The food is excellent and you could literally spend hours in there; and more than likely have to drag your kids out kicking and screaming. They have Buy 1 Get 1 Free Vouchers at the moment. 

https://www.facebook.com/BubblesWorldofPlay/

10. The Light Cinema – New Brighton

A regular visitor to this cinema and they have great offers for cinema tickets. Great to combine a day out with Bubbles’ finished with a trip to cinema with popcorn and sweets; maybe even a drink for the adults from their bar. Latest films and recently we’ve been to special screenings of films and theatre productions. 

https://www.facebook.com/LightCinemaWirral/

Wondering which of these Wirral gift ideas you’ll look at buying this year for a loved one.