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Hey there, I’m Rachael: photographer, baby whisperer and tea drinker

When you step into my studio it’s all about you, and all about your baby. Your baby is boss and I’m there to make sure everyone feel comfortable, safe and happy. I’m naturally much better at asking about you than talking about myself. But handing your baby to a stranger is a big deal so you probably want to know a bit about the person who will be handling your precious wee bundle. So here is a little bit about me, why i love photography and what you can expect when choosing me as your family photographer.

As a kid I was often found sat on the floor looking through old family photo albums. At my grandparents house I would sit with my Granny and flick through albums while she told me stories. Incredible stories about the war, her childhood, my mum as a child. Stories unlocked through these magical books of photos.

I have 52 framed photos in my house. 47 of these are of my family. My kids love that they can see htemselves as bumps, babies and with extended family. Now we have a dog we really need to book a new family photoshoot to make sure she is included too!

I have given birth at both Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and St John’s in Livingston. My experience was great at both but the birth of our youngest at St John’s was magical and I delivered him myself in the birthing pool. I’m by no means an earth mother but am a massive advocate of hyupnobirthing having used it myself. Honestly its not hippy dippy woo-wa, it’s science!

When not at the studio you’ll often find me out for a walk with my husband Thomas, our sons Lewis and Ollie and our greyhound Willow who we adopted in 2021. I’m never quite sure who needs the walk most, the dog or the 6 year old….

I am nosey. Sorry not sorry! I absolutely LOVE to hear your birth stories, about your jobs (especially if I’ve never heard of it before!) and your children. Having originally trained as a primary teacher before working in nurseries I know a tonne of silly songs, facial epxressions and stories to ensure your little people feel relaxed and have fun.

If you are looking for someone who is warm and friendly but not in your face, you found her. My past experience working within education and social care means I have lots of exerience with children who are shy, boisterous, wild, you name it. If you have a neurodivergent child I will chat to you in advance and follow your lead in terms of how best to approach your child. 

If you love the idea of beautiful, timeless photography with products tailored to your specific styles and decor you will love a session with me. 

Testimonials

Kind words from families I have worked with

“A truly fantastic service and all round experience!”

Rachael produced stunning, timeless results. We couldn’t be happier with the images from our Newborn shoot and Rachael worked  to get the best from our sleepy son, while sharing lots of helpful tips and info and making us feel completely at ease while she worked. Really very highly recommended!

STEVEN CHAMBERS

“We thoroughly enjoyed our experience with Rachael at Beautiful Bairns.”

She was so gentle and calming with our 11 day old baby boy and made him and us feel so comfortable during the shoot. The photos she has captured are beautiful and we will treasure them forever. Rachael is not only a wonderfully talented photographer but a lovely person to spend time with too. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her and can’t wait to return to the studio in the future when our little man gets bigger.

ZARA MURPHY

What else is important when choosing your newborn photographer?

When I began photographing newborns in 2011 there was only one other photographer in Edinburgh who specialised in newborns. Since then the industry has grown enormously and there is more choice than ever. So how do you know who to choose?

Here are some points that might help 🙂

Edinburgh's most experienced newborn photographer

In the 12 years I have been in business I have photographed thousands of babies. So you can relax knowing you are handing your baby to an expert. It’s not just about lighting and posing. You want to know that your photographer will be able to read your babies cues and understand their needs. You know your baby best and I will ask lots of questions before we begin to make sure I know everything I need to ensure baby is comfortable at all times.

Extensively trained

I am constantly looking to improve my knowledge and skills. To this end I train every year with worldwide experts to continually develop my skills. My training includes Paediatric First Aid which I hope I never have to use!

Internationally published

My photography work has been recognised and published in multiple publications, both in the UK and internationally.