Borrowed Robes and a Creative Vision
Last June, I headed to Reculver Towers for a newborn photosession that felt a little different. The ruins of the old church offered such a striking backdrop.
Earlier in the summer, Jo, the talented designer behind Kahani London, offered me ten of her newest robes to photograph. I often rent robes from her for my clients, so it was a treat to borrow this collection. I couldn’t resist offering them as an added bonus for my families.
Two robes stayed unphotographed, and I had been dreaming of a moody, gothic-styled session. These robes felt like the perfect match. To feed my curiosity, I organised a creative project and invited one of my families to join.
Here’s the moodboard I created to bring this idea to life:
Oops, Change of Plan
My plan was to begin at the towers and then move down for a few shots on the small beach below. But we were caught out by the high tide. The sea had swallowed the entire stretch of sand, leaving not even a corner for us to use.
I knew it would be high tide, but I hadn’t realised the water would cover the whole beach. Mistakes happen to the best of us! Next time, I’ll know better.
Nevertheless, we bounced back quickly. We leaned into the drama of the ruins and the energy of the wind.
An Outdoor Newborn Photosession
This was a newborn photosession with baby Maxwell, six months old but born two months premature, so he looked more like four months. His family was so lovely and open to ideas, which made the experience even more special.
We began gently with family portraits and detail shots. Then we moved into something more creative. Mama wore deep green and purple robes that set the tone for a dramatic look. Maxwell stayed cosy in a crochet blanket I had brought along.
Bringing in Dad
Later, dad joined in. Since he had an incredible physique, I encouraged him to go shirtless. He stood proudly beside his beautiful partner, who wore a black lace body paired with a Kahani kimono.
The ruins of Reculver, with the sea breeze lifting the robes and playing with mama’s hair, created a perfect backdrop.
The Final Mood
The wind pushed me to work quickly, but it added drama to the frames. The gallery became a mix of tender portraits, bold family moments, intimate kisses, and slower-shutter experiments. Some of the results leaned into a sensual, artistic, almost painterly feel.
Client Love
Here’s what mama shared about her experience:
“It was wonderful to shoot with Alba earlier this year for a family shoot with my young baby son and partner – we had a really relaxed and fun time and would 100% recommend her services. The images captured were beautiful, stylish and we will treasure them. Thank you Alba ♥️”
The Gallery
And here are the photographs we created that day:
What Do You Think? Did you like this Moody Newborn Photosession?
Did you enjoy this moody newborn session at Reculver Towers?
I’d love to know — do you think I captured the mood I was chasing? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
And if you’d like something a little different for your own newborn or family photosession in Kent, my calendar is open. I’d love to hear your ideas and bring them to life.
I’d love to hear your ideas and bring them to life. Send me a booking request on my pricing page.
Alba.
