Why My Foam Pumpkin Is the Secret to Perfect Autumn Baby Photoshoots

— by Kelly Hazlett Photography

Every autumn, my studio fills with the most gorgeous golden tones, chunky knits, and giggling little ones ready for their first seasonal photos. These sessions — especially for babies between 6 and 14 months — are some of my absolute favourites.

And every year, I see the same thing pop up online: babies sitting inside real pumpkins for those “Pinterest-perfect” autumn photos. It looks adorable, right? But if you’ve ever tried it yourself… you’ll know it’s not quite as simple (or clean!) as it seems.

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🍂 The Reality Behind the “Baby-in-a-Pumpkin” Trend

Cutting out a pumpkin big enough for your baby sounds cute in theory — but in reality, it’s cold, wet, and very messy. Real pumpkins are full of moisture, the insides can be slippery and sticky, and that bright orange flesh stains clothes and skin faster than you can say “just one more photo.”

Add in a wiggly 8-month-old who’s suddenly realised they’re sitting in something squishy and strange… and those sweet smiles can turn to tears pretty quickly.

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🍁 My Foam Pumpkin Solution: The Same Look, None of the Mess

This is where my beautifully realistic foam pumpkin comes in. It looks exactly like the real thing in photos — but without any of the mess or discomfort. No cold wet surfaces, no orange stains, and no awkward balancing act trying to keep baby upright in a hollow shell!

Instead, your little one gets to sit snugly and safely, surrounded by soft textures and warm tones that photograph beautifully. The result? That timeless autumn look you love — captured in comfort and joy.

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🧡 Why It Works So Well for Babies 6–14 Months

At this age, babies are curious, expressive, and full of personality — but they also tire quickly and don’t enjoy being unsettled. My foam pumpkin setup keeps things simple and baby-friendly during autumn baby photoshoots:

• Comfortable & dry: no cold surprises!

• Clean & stain-free: you can pop baby straight back in the car without a change of clothes.

• Stress-free: no tears, no stickiness, just happy smiles and gentle giggles.

Because when your baby feels relaxed and cosy, we get those genuine, heart-melting expressions you’ll treasure forever.

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🍂 Let’s Leave the Pumpkin-Gutting to Halloween

While the “baby in a pumpkin” photos might look easy to recreate, most parents tell me afterward they wish they’d just booked a professional session from the start. My foam pumpkin means we skip the mess and the chaos — and go straight to what matters most: capturing your baby’s personality in a safe, calm, and beautifully styled setting.

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✨ In the End… It’s About the Autumn Baby Photoshoot Experience

My goal is always to make your session stress-free, comfortable, and full of joy — and that includes every detail, right down to the pumpkin! By using a high-quality foam one, I can focus on capturing genuine smiles and natural connections, without worrying about sticky messes or last-minute replacements.

Sometimes, the “fake” option really does make everything a little more real.

Interested in booking your Autumn Mini? Spaces are limited each year and always fill quickly!

👉 Click here to book your Autumn Mini Session

Because your baby deserves all the autumn magic — without the mess. 🍂