FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When is it best to schedule my maternity session?
Maternity sessions are best between 30-36 weeks, but every mama is different. Once your baby bump appears and has that beautiful round shape, you’re ready. We usually don’t recommend having a session after the 36th week, as most moms tend to feel uncomfortable and fatigued during their session so it is a matter of finding the right balance for you.
How long do maternity sessions last?
Maternity sessions take about 30 to 90 minutes in total depending on which package you select. This includes the time to choose a wardrobe, and change outfits.
What should I wear? Do you offer a client wardrobe?
Yes!! We have about 20+ gowns that are handpicked and work beautifully for your maternity session! These gowns work with our style of photography. The simple light focused style. However, you may bring your dress if you like but please keep it simple and neutral to get the best result.
Can my husband/kids join?
SURE! We have packages that allow husbands and kids to join your session.
What should they wear?
We find it better to keep things neutral, black, gray, navy, cream, beige, and white are all great choices. Choose outfits that you feel happy in but that won’t date your photos so avoid patterns and logos to keep the pictures timeless.
Where do maternity sessions take place?
Maternity Sessions will take place in our studio in Kuwait City, Sharq. This allows us to control the lighting with the studio lights, have everything prepared in advance, and it is not weather dependent.
Do you offer Studio & Outdoor Sessions?
We only offer indoor sessions.
What about hair and make-up? Do you offer this service at the studio?
No, we don’t do hair and makeup at the studio … Please come ready with your hair and makeup done. There is no certain style we suggest to have. It’s all about how you would like your hair and face to look in the pictures. Also please be reminded that your hands will more than likely be in a lot of shots, so you can have your hands manicured as well.
When will I get my pictures?
The photos are usually ready between 6 to 8 weeks. The reason behind that is we follow a certain sequence of editing especially when the number of pictures chosen is high to ensure accuracy and consistency in the final result. We promise however that it is worth waiting for!
Can I get my photos earlier than the standard mentioned time?
Yes, we have a rush order service for an extra 20 KD charge and you will get them within two weeks.
When is the best time to book my newborn photography session?
If you are a C-section and you already know the date of your baby’s birth, you can book a month in advance. If you will have a natural birth then it’s better to book your session once you deliver your baby to assure there is an available spot before your little one turns 13 days old. During this time frame, newborns are quite sleepy, snuggly, and still curly from the womb and are easily molded into those squishy newborn poses.
When will my newborn session take place after birth?
Give us a call once you deliver your baby and we will book the soonest spot available.
How do we prepare for the session?
A day before your newborn session we will be sending you a message that just goes over a few things to best prepare for your newborn portrait session with us.
If the baby is breastfed we advise moms to avoid spicy/acidic/gassy food for 24 hours before the session. Give your baby a warm bath before coming as it helps in relaxing them and they will have fresh-looking hair. Also, try to keep the baby awake for as long as possible before the session and ready for a big feed on arrival. The baby should be wearing something comfortable and easy to remove and the nappy should be loose as much as it allows to avoid marks on their skin. We also advise you to pump and prepare at least two bottles of your milk for a faster drink.
How long will my newborn session last?
Sessions can last anywhere from 1.30 – 3 hours (This will depend on the package you chose for your newborn session).
Will the camera flash hurt my baby’s eyes?
No, camera flashes do not hurt babies’ eyes and it has been proved by Drs that it is safe and thankfully does not affect their vision at all.
If my baby exceeded the two week old window, will it be late?
Although it will be harder to take your baby’s photos outside the two weeks window, it is still possible. However, the pictures we capture might not be similar to the newborn pictures you see on our website or social media. After two weeks old, newborns tend to be less sleepy, colic and wake up easier while being posed or wrapped. For these sessions, we plan for swaddle and wrap setups and might have some of your pictures or all with an awake baby.
Do you include siblings in your newborn sessions?
Yes, we do have packages that include siblings but it always depends on their cooperation especially if they are three years old or under.
What should we wear?
We find it better to keep things neutral so black, gray, navy, cream, beige, and white are all great choices. Choose outfits that make you happy but that won’t date your photos so avoid patterns and logos to keep the pictures timeless.
Can I take my own photos?
You are welcome to take a couple of behind the scenes photos with your phone during your session to remember this special time in your baby’s life, however, if you have a professional camera, it isn’t allowed to get or take photos of the session with it. You have paid us to take your baby’s photos and we will do it for you.
Do you edit the pictures?
Yes, we edit all your selected photos.
Do you offer any discounts or specials?
We do not. We understand some photographers offer less expensive options. However, we believe our pricing matches our experience, services, and products. For this reason, we do not offer any kind of discounts or reductions on our work. We thank you for understanding.
When will I get my pictures?
The photos are usually ready between 6 to 8 weeks. The reason behind that is we follow a certain sequence of editing especially when the number of pictures chosen is high to ensure accuracy and consistency in the final result. We promise however that it is worth waiting for!
Can I get my photos earlier than the standard mentioned time?
Yes, we have a rush order service for an extra 20 KD charge and you will get them within two weeks.
When should I book my sitter session?
The best time to have the session is once the baby starts to sit confidently without much support from anyone else. Usually, between 6 to 9 months of age and haven’t started crawling yet either!
Where does the sitter session take place?
The session will take place in our studio in Kuwait City, Sharq. This allows us to control the lighting with the studio lights, have everything prepared in advance, and it is not weather dependent.
My baby already started crawling, can we still do the sitter session?
Yes! Of course, but It will just need more patience to have perfect poses and there might be a possibility of not having the poses you really want, but still cute and spontaneous ones. We usually expect to have different photo styles for crawling babies if they decide to move around instead of staying still.
How long does the session take?
The sitter session takes on average 30 to 40 minutes. Babies at this age have a short attention span so we have to be really fast during the session! Most babies can usually get photos in 3 different setups being happy in this time frame.
What time of the day is best to schedule a sitter session?
The best time of the day for a sitter session is after your baby’s nap or when you know they are the happiest during the day. A full baby is a happy baby! So make sure your baby is also well-fed before the session. Having a nap and a full tummy will ensure the baby is well rested and content for the session.
What should I bring with me to the session?
Your baby’s changing bag with everything you would normally bring for a day out, milk of course and you can bring along some non-sticky or messy snacks like puffs, and probably a pacifier.
What should the baby wear for the session?
We have plenty of outfits, tutus, headbands, hats, and props in our studio for you to choose from. You can still also get your own baby’s outfits if you wish.
Can parents and siblings get in front of the camera too?
Yes of course they can. There are packages for sitters with siblings and parents. Please check our sitter packages.
Can we include cake smash in the sitter session?
You can get your own cake but there will be no smashing at all, and there won’t be a cake smash background. You can still add some balloons with an additional charge or get your balloons if you wish.
When will I get my pictures?
The photos are usually ready between 6 to 8 weeks. The reason behind that is we follow a certain sequence of editing especially when the number of pictures chosen is high to ensure accuracy and consistency in the final result. We promise however that it is worth waiting for!
Can I get my photos earlier than the standard mentioned time?
Yes, we have a rush order service for an extra 20 KD charge and you will get them within two weeks.
- What is a half-birthday session?Half birthday session is to celebrate your little ones when they turn 6 months old.When should I bring my baby for a half-birthday session?Once the baby reaches 6 months old.Do you provide outfits for this session?Yes, we do, a tutu skirt for girls and a diaper cover, and a bow tie for the boys. We can also customize an outfit upon your request for an extra charge.Will the cake be a half-cake design?
Yes, it can be a half cake or a 4-inch cake which is a very suitable size for a baby who is 6 months old.
What if my baby is already 6 months old but can’t sit unsupported?
We do have a nice high chair for little halves who can’t sit by themselves so don’t worry if your baby can’t yet sit unsupported.
When will I get my pictures?
The photos are usually ready between 6 to 8 weeks. The reason behind that is we follow a certain sequence of editing especially when the number of pictures chosen is high to ensure accuracy and consistency in the final result. We promise however that it is worth waiting for!
Can I get my photos earlier than the standard mentioned time?
Yes, we have a rush order service for an extra 20 KD charge and you will get them within two weeks.
What is a cake smash?
A cake smash session is a celebration of the baby’s first birthday. Babies are given a cake and the freedom to eat/destroy it however they please to celebrate their birthday.
For some babies, this is their first taste of cake or a sugary dessert, so it’s a fun milestone to capture. Some families do heavy theming, with props and custom outfits to match a color scheme or idea, while others stay with a minimalist approach with the baby, cake, and perhaps balloons. Pick what you like or ask us for ideas or help with any theme.
When is the best time to schedule a cake smash?
Once your baby reaches their first birthday or a month prior to or after their birthday date.
How long does the session last?
Cake smash sessions take around 20 to 40 minutes long.
Will the cake be included in the package?
Yes, a standard cake design is included in the package. Some other cake designs might require an extra charge.
Can the baby’s siblings attend and have pictures as well?
Yes, we can include his/her real siblings but there will be an additional charge. Kindly check the cake smash packages.
Can my husband and I be included in the baby’s cake smash photoshoot?
Yes, you can, but you will have to sit on the floor as the background isn’t long enough for standing adults… It’s perfect for babies’ size only.
Where does the cake smash session take place?
The session will take place in our studio in Kuwait City, Sharq. This allows us to control the lighting with the studio lights, have everything prepared in advance, and it is not weather dependent.
Do you also take non-cake smash photos?
YES! We always start by taking nice photos of the baby alone, before the messy cake smash portion. We also take some photos of them with a giant number one prop before introducing the cake.
When will I get my pictures?
The photos are usually ready between 6 to 8 weeks. The reason behind that is we follow a certain sequence of editing especially when the number of pictures chosen is high to ensure accuracy and consistency in the final result. We promise however that it is worth waiting for!
Can I get my photos earlier than the standard mentioned time?
Yes, we have a rush order service for an extra 20 KD charge and you will get them within two weeks.
Will you highlight the baby’s first tooth in the photos?
It really depends on the baby, we would love to capture the cute first tooth but some babies never really smile or open their mouths enough for us to do so.
Do you have outfits for the 1st tooth session?
We do provide outfits for this session, you can also ask us to customize an outfit for the baby if you wish for an extra charge.
Can I ask you to customize an outfit for me?
Yes, you can always ask us to customize an outfit for the baby if you wish for an extra charge.
Can I change the standard theme and cake design that you offer with this session?
If you are only changing the colors, it will be within the package price. If you want to change the whole theme design, it will cost an extra charge depending on the changes you require.
When will I get my pictures?
The photos are usually ready between 6 to 8 weeks. The reason behind that is we follow a certain sequence of editing especially when the number of pictures chosen is high to ensure accuracy and consistency in the final result. We promise however that it is worth waiting for!
Can I get my photos earlier than the standard mentioned time?
Yes, we have a rush order service for an extra 20 KD charge and you will get them within two weeks.
At what age can I bring my child for a bubble bath session?
This session is best for babies who can sit unsupported and up to 2 years old.
What is the difference between a bubble bath and a lemon bath?
The bubble bath has only water, soap, bubbles, and rubber ducks while the lemon bath has water and lemon slices.
Do you have outfits for the bubble/ lemon bath session?
We provide a diaper cover and a cap for bubble baths. In lemon baths, the babies are usually naked.
I see flowers sometimes in the lemon bath photos, is that within the package?
Flowers are usually special requests from our clients and they require an additional charge.
When will I get my pictures?
The photos are usually ready between 6 to 8 weeks. The reason behind that is we follow a certain sequence of editing especially when the number of pictures chosen is high to ensure accuracy and consistency in the final result. We promise however that it is worth waiting for!
Can I get my photos earlier than the standard mentioned time?
Yes, we have a rush order service for an extra 20 KD charge and you will get them within two weeks.
What is a confetti session?
It is a way to capture the adventurous spirit in all babies by letting them enjoy the dropped confetti pieces and capturing the excitement and fun of the experience.
When can I bring my baby for a confetti session?
This session is suitable for babies who can sit and interact around 10 months old and up to 5 years old.
Do you provide outfits for confetti sessions?
We don’t provide outfits for this session but we suggest something simple and cute.
What should we wear?
We usually suggest a white shirt and blue jeans for boys and girls or a white dress for girls.
Can I bring a cake for this session?
No, this is not a birthday session, this is all about capturing joyful and playful moments for babies. We, however, have a package that contains a cake. Please check our cake smash packages.
When will I get my pictures?
The photos are usually ready between 6 to 8 weeks. The reason behind that is we follow a certain sequence of editing especially when the number of pictures chosen is high to ensure accuracy and consistency in the final result. We promise however that it is worth waiting for!
Can I get my photos earlier than the standard mentioned time?
Yes, we have a rush order service for an extra 20 KD charge and you will get them within two weeks.
For whom is this session?
This session is best for foodie babies, especially pasta lovers.
When should I book this session?
You can book this session for babies who are around 9 months old, that has already started eating solid food, and up to 5 years old.
What should my baby wear for the pasta session?
We suggest you dress your baby in white as it makes the best outcome with messy pasta.
Do you provide outfits for the pasta session?
Yes, we do provide an apron and a hat.
Can the baby eat the pasta?
Sure they can, the pasta is cooked and made especially for the little ones to enjoy and eat so we can have the best photos.
When will I get my pictures?
The photos are usually ready between 6 to 8 weeks. The reason behind that is we follow a certain sequence of editing especially when the number of pictures chosen is high to ensure accuracy and consistency in the final result. We promise however that it is worth waiting for!
Can I get my photos earlier than the standard mentioned time?
Yes, we have a rush order service for an extra 20 KD charge and you will get them within two weeks.
What is a family session?
This is your classic family photo session. We take memorable pictures of all the family members.
Is there a certain theme for the family session?
There is no theme but we have classic wooden backgrounds and plain ones.
What should we wear for the family session?
We suggest classic to semi-formal clothing as it will look great with the white, black, and wooden backgrounds that we offer for this session.
Do you offer outfits for this session?
No, we don’t, you will have to bring your own outfit.
When will I get my pictures?
The photos are usually ready between 6 to 8 weeks. The reason behind that is we follow a certain sequence of editing especially when the number of pictures chosen is high to ensure accuracy and consistency in the final result. We promise however that it is worth waiting for!
Can I get my photos earlier than the standard mentioned time?
Yes, we have a rush order service for an extra 20 KD charge and you will get them within two weeks.
What do you mean by seasonal themes?
The seasonal sessions represent the themes we have on special occasions such as National Day, Mother’s Day, Gergean (Ramadan), Halloween, or the winter theme.
Are seasonal themes available all year?
No, seasonal themes are only available in their respective season or time of the year. They are limited edition themes which means we never repeat the same theme twice.
Do you repeat the same idea for seasonal themes every year?
No, we don’t, each year we present a new idea or ideas for each theme and never use them again after the season ends.
Do you have outfits for seasonal themes?
No, we usually don’t. Some themes might require us to offer outfits, we will let you know when you book.
Why are the seasonal themes limited and why can’t you repeat the same theme every year?
The seasonal themes are suitable for all age’s not just babies. This usually means that our loyal clients are visiting us yearly with their kids who are getting older as well, therefore we make sure not to repeat the same theme twice in order to offer you and our returning clients a different and beautiful experience every time you come.
Instagram sneak peeks! @alaamakki
