Frequently Asked Questions

Below, we aim to provide answers to frequently asked questions about My First Day. If you have a question not answered here, please feel free to email us.

Where are the photographs taken?

The photographs are taken around the dramatic coastlines of south west England, mostly in West Cornwall.
When are the photographs taken?

Most photographs are taken at dawn. However when visibility or light is very poor, the photograph may be taken later to capture the best possible image for that day. The time each photograph is taken is detailed when you search My First Day’s gallery, along with personal notes from the photographer.
What size photographs are available? And how much are they?

There’s a choice of three sizes: small, medium and large. View size/measurement information
What frames do you use and is there a choice?

We use Nielsen frames. Nielsen has a reputation for producing high quality frames that are both attractive and sturdy.

You can choose between a metal frame in black or matt silver, or a solid natural wood frame made from sustainably grown birch.

In order to protect the photograph during transit, we don’t provide photographs unframed. But, if you want to re-frame the photograph yourself, the print can be easily removed from the Nielsen frame.
Why are some photographs in black and white?

Every day is different. The light is different. The amount of sun and cloud cover is different. Gavan applies his judgement with the aim of producing the most beautiful photograph for that day. On some days, in his view, the most beautiful photograph may be black and white.
Can I be certain a photograph was genuinely taken on my child’s first day?

Yes. Each photograph has a source file containing embedded metadata which cannot be erased or altered. This is equivalent to the photograph’s DNA. (This metadata is not visible on the photograph itself.)
Can I choose the hand-written wording that appears below the photograph?

Yes you can. When you order the photograph, the default wording to appear below the photograph will be your child’s name followed by ‘first day’ (e.g. Ryan’s first day). You will have the option to change this to your preferred wording (up to 40 characters).

The majority of people ordering My First Day photographs do so to celebrate and remember the birth of a child. But you can order a photograph to remember any special date, inserting your choice of words as appropriate.
Do you have photographs from before 21st June 2005?

No. Please accept our apologies if your child was born before this date.
There’s no photograph when I search my child’s date of birth. Why is this?

Unfortunately, and only in unusual circumstances, the photographer is unable to take a photograph on a particular day. Our aim is to minimise the number of days when this happens. If there is no photograph for your child’s date of birth, please accept our sincere apologies. We could never compromise My First Day by inserting a substitute image from a different day.
What is the print quality of the photographs?

All My First Day photographs are taken on a professional digital camera. The photographs are printed on pH neutral archival paper using the Epson UltraChromeTM Ink System. This is a professional printing system which meets archival quality print standard.
What is your returns policy?

In the unlikely event your photograph or frame is damaged in transit, please contact us immediately. We will arrange for the damaged goods to be returned and replaced at no cost to you.

Because My First Day photographs are personalised, we are unable to accept returns if you decide you no longer like the photograph. Before ordering, you can view an enlarged, embossed version of your chosen photograph.

To view My First Day’s trading terms and conditions, please click here.
Are the photographs manipulated?

No. There is no manipulation. The photograph you see is the exact photograph taken on that day. To create the best possible images, very subtle adjustments to the colour balance, saturation and contrast may be made