Welcoming a new baby into your family is one of life’s most precious (and let’s be honest, overwhelming) moments. That’s why I aim to make your newborn photoshoot as easy and relaxed as possible. No stress, no fancy props – just you, your family and your baby exactly as you are.

These sessions are about capturing the beauty in the ordinary moments – the snuggles, the little details, and the connection that fills your home. Here’s everything you need to know to get ready and feel confident about your session.

Your Home, Your Story

I don’t bring props because I believe your home and your baby’s belongings tell your story best. Those special touches – a knitted blanket from Grandma, a handmade beanie, or a favourite swaddle – are what make your photos meaningful and unique. If there are any items that feel special to you, have them handy, and we’ll include them in the session.

Feeding and the Flow of the Session

To help your baby feel content and cosy, I recommend feeding them right before I arrive or as I get there. That said, your baby is in charge of the session. If they need to feed again, have a nappy change, or just need a cuddle, we’ll pause for those moments – and I’ll be there to capture them, too. These little pauses are part of the story, and they’re just as beautiful as the quiet, peaceful moments.

Finding the Light

We’ll move through your home to find the best natural light. Usually, this means spending time in the main living areas, the master bedroom and the nursery if possible. Natural light is key, so before I arrive, feel free to open up your blinds and curtains and turn off any lamps or overhead lights.

What to Wear (and What Not To)

For your baby, simple is best. Choose outfits that fit well (nothing too big or frilly) and avoid foot covers or anything that hides their beautiful face. White or earthy-toned bodysuits are timeless, and those tiny toes are always worth showing off!

For the rest of the family, stick to 2-4 complementary colours with a mix of textures or subtle patterns. Avoid matching outfits, bright logos or neon colours – anything that might distract from your faces. Ultimately, wear something you feel comfortable and confident in.

Solo Shots of Your Baby

While most of the session will focus on your family together, I’ll make sure to capture some solo shots of your little one, too. Whether they’re snuggled in a blanket, stretched out on the bed, or having a quiet moment in the nursery, we’ll take time to focus just on them. These images are all about celebrating how tiny and perfect they are in these early days.

Keep It Cosy

Make the house a comfortable temperature so we can include some stripped-down photos of your baby – maybe in a nappy or during a skin-on-skin moment in your arms. These are often some of the most tender and heartfelt shots of the day.

Tidy… To A Degree

I know it’s tempting to make your house absolutely spotless for your photoshoot, but you also want it to look and feel lived in. My suggestion? Just hide the things you don’t want in the background of your images – things like water bottles, paperwork, or the clothes horse. If you have a neutral doona cover, consider popping it on the bed for photos in the master bedroom – it helps keep the focus on you and your baby, without bold patterns competing for attention. Not tidying at all can take the focus away from you, but finding that comfy balance in between is perfect.

Set the Mood

Want to create a relaxed, cosy vibe for your session? Put on some music you love! It’s amazing how a favourite playlist can make everyone feel at ease and add an extra touch of warmth to the experience. And feel free to grab a cuppa during the shoot, go without shoes and put your feet up! This small detail can make a big difference in the overall atmosphere of the day.

What Makes This Different

Unlike a traditional studio session, this isn’t about stiff poses or perfect backdrops. It’s about capturing your family in your home, doing the things you normally do with your baby. We’ll laugh, cuddle, and hang out together, creating beautiful, authentic images that reflect your life right now.

Your home doesn’t have to be perfect and your baby doesn’t need to “perform.” The beauty lies in the everyday moments – the way your baby curls into your arms, the giggles from your toddler and the quiet connection that ties it all together.

When you look back on these photos in years to come, I hope they remind you of how this chapter felt. Because these moments – messy, beautiful and real – are the ones that matter most.