Newborn Sessions

Newborn sessions are best photographed in the first weeks of life — 6 weeks or younger. Sessions are baby-led, with time for feeding and soothing. Wraps, baskets, props and backdrops are provided.

What to expect

Planning your session

I love to photograph newborns when they are 5–21 days new, but if your baby is a little older, that’s fine too — there is no magic number. Babies under a month are usually more cooperative, but every baby is different: I’ve had an 8-day-old who cried the whole time and a 6-week-old who slept like a charm.

If you have a planned C-section, we can pre-book based on that date. For a natural birth, we can set a tentative date or book once your baby arrives. Please call, message or text me within the first 24–48 hours, as I usually book 1–2 weeks ahead.

During the session

Newborn sessions take place in my studio. There is a seating area where parents can relax and watch their baby’s first photo session. It’s best if I handle your baby during the session so they get used to me moving and posing them. We take breaks for feeding, comforting and cuddling as needed.

The studio will be very warm — newborns are happiest that way. It may feel a little uncomfortable for us, but your baby will be content and the photos will be worth it. If your session is in the afternoon or early evening, keep your baby awake as much as possible during the day. If baby is due for a feeding, feed about 75% before you arrive and save the rest for the studio so they’re nice and sleepy.

A small room with a changing table (unscented wipes), a couch and a nursing pillow is available for feeding, and for older siblings. We usually start with family and sibling photos; afterwards, siblings are welcome to relax in this room — feel free to bring a tablet, books or toys.

My supplies

I have everything needed for the session: newborn hats, backdrop fabrics, props, blankets and wraps, and of course my photography equipment. You don’t need to bring anything except your baby. If you have a favourite hat, blanket or keepsake you’d like included, please bring it.

The session

Newborn sessions are my longest sessions — about 2 to 2.5 hours. Please allow 2–3 hours and don’t schedule other appointments around it. I work around your baby’s schedule, so every session is different; feeding, soothing and diaper changes are all part of it. Additional time can be added the same day if available, or on a future date, at an overtime rate of $50 + tax per 30 minutes.

After the session

Please allow about a week for me to prepare your viewing gallery. I’ll send you the login details by message or email. Once your order is placed, I’ll let you know when your lightly edited digital files are ready to download.

Getting ready? Read the full newborn preparation guide — keeping baby awake, what to wear for parents and siblings, and more.