The arrival of your baby marks one of the most extraordinary moments in your life. From those delicate fingers and tiny toes to the soft eyelashes and the adorable face you’ve longed for nine months, the first glimpse of your little one is truly special. In these initial weeks, time seems to slip away as your baby undergoes rapid changes. Newborn photography offers a timeless way to preserve the memories of these fleeting moments, allowing you to treasure them for a lifetime.
It’s recommended to schedule your baby’s photo session ideally within 1 to 2 weeks after birth. Beyond this brief timeframe, newborns tend to become more alert, have difficulty staying asleep, and often experience restlessness along with potential skin issues like baby acne or peeling.
Reach out well before your due date to secure a booking. While you can confirm your session date later, I suggest making the booking after your 12-week scan. When you book, we won’t immediately set a date for your session. For newborn sessions, the estimated due date is sufficient for booking.
Don’t worry! It’s a common situation. Your due date is treated as a tentative date in my schedule to avoid overbooking around your expected delivery time. After your baby arrives, please reach out to me within 24 hours. Once I receive confirmation of your baby’s arrival, we can arrange a session for the following week.
I provide in-home sessions for newborn photography because I understand the comfort of being in your own home. I’ve been there and I know how demanding it can be to step out of the door with a 7-10 day old baby, let alone manage to have hair and makeup done, put on an outfit, and ensure the entire family looks photo-ready.
I also know that some of you might be wondering, “Is my house the right place for our session?” No need to worry! Your home doesn’t have to be very clean, tidy, or decorated for the session. Just relax; there’s no pressure to have a perfectly spotless home. I know you have a lot on your plate already.
Upon arriving, first, I check the lighting and location. This allows me to determine the best spots to capture your family in your own environment. I often use natural window light, and if needed, I have studio lighting equipment available for the entire or part of your portrait session. I always come prepared with the necessary lighting equipment, so there’s no need for you to be concerned about the lighting conditions inside your home.
You get all the photos edited. This included retouching for hair and skin, as well as cleaning up the background if necessary.
Absolutely! Lifestyle sessions capture those beautiful everyday moments with your newest family member. My style is a blend of posed and natural shots, giving you the best of both worlds. But if you prefer a more laid-back feel, I can customize it to exactly what you have in mind. It’s all about creating timeless memories that reflect your family’s unique story.
Ensuring the safety of your baby and family (as well as my own little one at home) is my top priority. I regularly get a Whooping Cough booster and an annual Influenza vaccination. I follow strict hygiene measures, such as not photographing when sick, cleaning and sanitizing all items etc. If you prefer, I can also wear a mask to further protect your little one.
A newborn photo session typically lasts around two hours. People often wonder why newborn sessions take longer compared to other photo shoots. Newborns, particularly in their first two weeks, can be quite unpredictable. During the session, we take breaks for feeding, changing, and soothing your baby as necessary. Our top priority is ensuring your little one’s comfort, which is why we make sure to allow enough time for any necessary adjustments.
Newborn sessions are not only about capturing the baby but also about the whole family. I’ll take photos of all possible combinations, including shots of the baby with siblings, mum with the baby, dad with the baby, etc. Grandparents are also welcome to join in the session.
. Preparing the baby
To make the most of our session, it’s helpful to spend plenty of “awake” time with your baby beforehand. Try to schedule a feeding for the baby about 15 minutes before my arrival. This helps prepare the baby for a good, long nap at the beginning of the session, allowing us to capture those precious moments during deep sleep. Giving the baby a bath can help keep them awake. However, I understand that babies can be unpredictable.
When they’re hungry, they’re hungry, and sometimes, you can’t help with the sleeping. That’s totally fine! Do your best, and I’ll handle the rest. If you’re breastfeeding, please avoid spicy food a day or two before your session. Additionally, I highly recommend having a dummy on hand, even if it’s not regularly used.
. Selecting the right outfits
I suggest beginning with Mum’s outfit and coordinating the cloths of other family members around hers. This is the time when mum’s regular wardrobe may not fit yet, and maternity clothes might feel a bit awkward. Our goal is for you to look and feel your best during the session. Long dresses and flowy tunics are excellent choices. choose plain, light, neutral-coloured outfits for everyone (avoid loud colours, bold prints, graphic tees, or logos). As for your baby, no clothing is necessary as I will provide wraps and other accessories.
. Preparing your little ones
If you have young kids, having a new baby around is a big change for them. They might act a bit differently in the first few weeks or months as they get used to having a new brother or sister. We understand that, and we know they might not be too excited about having their picture taken. We’d love it if you could talk to them a few days before the session and let them know that a photographer will be coming to take their picture. You can make it fun by practicing smiles and talking about the camera and how it will save memories for your family.
. Do not stress!
Sometimes, unexpected things happen. A toddler might not listen, or your baby might make a mess. It happens, and I’m okay with it. If your little one gets upset or the baby spits up, we’ll take our time and work through it. It’s normal, so don’t worry if these things happen.
I often get messages from parents who feel a bit stressed, asking this same question. No need to stress! Some families start thinking about getting baby photos when their little one is already born. If you’re in that situation, you’re not alone. Just reach out to check for last-minute availability. I might be able to fit you in. And remember, we can always take lovely pictures of your baby, no matter how old they are.
If you have a specific pose or design in mind, feel free to share a Pinterest board or send sample photos. We can collaborate to see if we can recreate it in your place. Let’s work together to make your vision a reality!
Of course! I believe in bringing these memories to life through prints. I provide a range of products, including frames, canvases, wood blocks, albums, and memory boxes.
I provide special frames for newborn sessions, including a Photo Collage Storyboard. You can customize it with your baby’s name, date and time of birth, weight, or any other details that hold significance for you. It’s a delightful way to cherish those unforgettable moments.
Family photographers, Brisbane, Queensland
Family, maternity, newborn, baby, branding and graduation photography
Capturing authentic moments. Creating artwork.
The owner and photographer
of Sara Photography in Brisbane, Australia.
Thank you for stopping by my website.
I hope you enjoy my photography.
I can't wait to connect with you
and help capture your special moments!
Don't forget to follow my pages
so we can stay in touch