Alina Ciobanu Photography

Alina Ciobanu Photography Hertfordshire photographer specialising in maternity, newborn, cake smash and family photography. By Appointment Only

Is your little one turning one soon, and you’re not sure whether to go for a cake smash or a birthday session?Many first...
19/02/2026

Is your little one turning one soon, and you’re not sure whether to go for a cake smash or a birthday session?

Many first-time parents feel the same mix of excitement and hesitation. It’s completely normal when stepping into something new.

Before booking, you might ask yourself:

1. Is it really worth it?
Some see it as just a trend, others as a once-in-a-lifetime experience to capture your baby’s joy and personality. Ask yourself what draws you most: the memory, the photos, or the experience.

2. What if it’s a disaster?
Some babies barely touch the cake (fruit helps!). Others dive right in. Either way, we capture it all, the giggles, the curiosity, the real moments. You can always take the cake home afterwards.

3. Will it be messy?
A little, but it’s worth it. It’s like a sensory play session; we handle the cleaning and provide wipes and towels.

4. Is it safe and clean?
Yes. The studio, outfits and props are cleaned before and after every session.

5. What if she’s shy or tired?
We start with family photos so your baby feels comfortable. You stay close, we sing, play peek-a-boo and take breaks if needed. Sessions are planned around nap and meal times.

6. Will people think it’s silly?
If it feels special to you, that’s all that matters. These are your memories, and that’s enough reason.

7. Do you provide the cake?
No, due to allergies. Parents usually bring their own, order from a baker, or grab one from the shop.

If a cake smash isn’t for you, a birthday session is just as beautiful. Same joy, minus the cake.

Some mums need a little help with posing during the session, while for others, these movements come naturally.When I see...
18/02/2026

Some mums need a little help with posing during the session, while for others, these movements come naturally.

When I see real connection, expression, and confidence, that’s when I take the photo, because that’s the moment worth cherishing.

Let’s be honest, most of the time, babies look so serious during their photoshoot.They’re busy checking the lights, the ...
16/02/2026

Let’s be honest, most of the time, babies look so serious during their photoshoot.
They’re busy checking the lights, the background, and of course… me, the new face in the room.

It’s all new, and sometimes it just takes a little longer for them to open up.

Then there are babies like little Eman, smiling, turning in every direction, and posing so beautifully for us from the start.

Each baby is different, and that’s the beauty. They’re here to explore, to love, and to grow, gently guided by you, their parents, the most important people in their world.

Let`s start the weekend with a smile!
14/02/2026

Let`s start the weekend with a smile!

Is a maternity session worth it?If you start asking this question in groups, I understand, you’re not sure if you deserv...
12/02/2026

Is a maternity session worth it?

If you start asking this question in groups, I understand, you’re not sure if you deserve one or not.

You might think it’s a waste of money right now, but in time, you may change your mind. I’ve had mums tell me they never did it, and now feel sad that they don’t have any professional images of themselves during pregnancy.

If you ask your partner and he says it’s a waste of time, have an honest conversation with yourself about how that makes you feel. During pregnancy, our bodies change, hormones might say go left then right, and we often look for validation in what others think.

But here’s the truth: Two people will never feel the same about the same thing.

I’ve seen absolutely gorgeous mums, true goddesses in my eyes, receive their images and feel so happy about what we created.

But later, their opinion changed after sharing the photos with friends who didn’t understand what those moments meant. That happens when you look for validation from others instead of within.

During my first pregnancy, I went through fear because I had no idea what to expect. After birth, I fell straight into depression, so I know how hard it is to navigate all the changes.

That’s why I recommend thinking about it and planning early. If a maternity session feels special to you, find a photographer who truly understands and guides you through the whole process.

The best way is to have a quick phone call with the photographer and see what kind of vibe you get while chatting. No pressure, no strings attached.

Some babies don’t sleep through the entire newborn session and wake up. That’s when we can capture close-ups, so you can...
11/02/2026

Some babies don’t sleep through the entire newborn session and wake up. That’s when we can capture close-ups, so you can remember their delicate features.

They change so much during their first year, so every moment deserves to be preserved.

Good vibrations are all we need. Thank you so much, Sana, for the kind words!
09/02/2026

Good vibrations are all we need. Thank you so much, Sana, for the kind words!

In a world where technology moves so fast, it’s wise to save your images both as digital files and printed artwork.Digit...
07/02/2026

In a world where technology moves so fast, it’s wise to save your images both as digital files and printed artwork.

Digitals are great for sharing with family and friends.
But devices can fail. Files get lost. Years of memories—gone in a second.
That’s why it’s important to back them up on multiple devices.

Still, nothing compares to a printed piece you can hold, hang, or gift to your child in 20–30 years.

Professional wall art stands the test of time.
They’re made with care, using high-quality materials that keep colours true and details sharp.
They don’t fade like high street prints—and that makes them even more special with time.

Of course, the choice is always yours.
My job is to show you the options and the difference quality makes.

When to Book Your Newborn Photoshoot? 🍼The best time to capture your baby is between 6 and 10 days old, when they are st...
05/02/2026

When to Book Your Newborn Photoshoot? 🍼

The best time to capture your baby is between 6 and 10 days old, when they are still sleepy and easier to settle.

To make sure your session falls within this window, I recommend getting in touch during pregnancy. If your baby has already arrived, don’t worry, beautiful photos can still be created with patience and care.

When you’re ready to book, we’ll make a tentative booking based on your due date to secure your spot. Once your baby is home, you can contact me to arrange a convenient date and time for the shoot.

Want to learn more about newborn sessions?
Send me a message. I’d be happy to share all the details. 😊

⭐ “A sister is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost.” ⭐
04/02/2026

⭐ “A sister is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost.” ⭐

“Pregnancy is the start of a beautiful story written with every heartbeat.”
02/02/2026

“Pregnancy is the start of a beautiful story written with every heartbeat.”

Your baby will be so small only once 😍
31/01/2026

Your baby will be so small only once 😍

Address

Hemel Hempstead

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 3pm
Tuesday 10am - 3pm
Wednesday 10am - 3pm
Thursday 10am - 3pm
Friday 10am - 3pm
Saturday 10am - 3pm
Sunday 11am - 3pm

Telephone

+447918218384

Website

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