behind the scenes at ITV’s Lorraine show

Remember that time one of the wonderful birth stories I photographed was featured and discussed on ITV’s Lorraine show? Yes? That was good.

Here’s a little look at what it was like to be backstage in the green room with Louise and baby Freja.

Well it started with theft.

We thought the lovely danish pastries they had on a plate were set out for guests. I gave one to Louise. She very much enjoyed it. It wasn’t until later that we realised that part of the green room was used filmed for the Lorraine show, and the foody bits and pieces were intended for display. I will be forever guilty that we upset the principle of “best in 3s” for styling. Those two remaining danishes looked a little sad.

When you are a young starlet, best keep yourself fed and happy.

Freja was very good at giving me the “I’ve seen you somewhere before” look.

A quick pat for wind and then it was time for facial stretches and vocal exercises. Freja is a pro. She takes these things seriously.

Rehearsing the introductions. Hi, I’m Freja!

We were very lucky and got to meet the very beautiful and inspirational Katie Piper.

Please note. Freja is not starstruck at all. She takes this all in her stride. Plus she would rather eye up the sound technician and his many, many leads.

Power nap. With eyes open and tongue out.

Louise gets prepped for her interview. It was her birthday that day. She got up super early to appear on the show. What a trooper.

Then we went through to the studio itself. It was a bright, pink space and I had to be quiet. I succeeded in that goal. Although it was really exciting to know that in a few moments the images I had shot of Freja’s birth story would be broadcast to the nation. Or at least to the people up that early. Lorraine was off that day, so Louise got to chat to the very lovely Nadia Sawalha.

They go live. Louise does a FANTASTIC job of chatting about her experience, why she hired a birth photographer, and just how much the images mean to her now. Nadia loved the pictures too. Which was splendid.

Freja earned about 15 gold stars for stellar behaviour on set. Gorgeous girl.

And then it was over and we were whisked outside into the waiting car and taken home to Louise’s house.

I got messages straight away, everyone so impressed with Louise because it is so good to hear from a real mum, who’s had the experience and can talk so enthusiastically about it.

We sat for a moment, feeling it was all a bit surreal. Then it was time for some birthday pictures with Mum.

Freja knows the drill.

1. Be cute. Check.

2. Have a tender moment with Mum. Done.

3. Show off those pretty pink shoes and big blue eyes. Tick.

4. Finish everything off with a baby roar of laughter. Mission accomplished.