Maternity & newborn guide

 

 

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Location, Location, Location


Your newborn session will be in your home, but what about your maternity session?  The location you choose helps set the tone. Some couples love the golden light and open space of the beach or countryside, while others prefer the comfort of their own backyard or a favourite spot that holds meaning. I’ll help guide you to places that photograph beautifully and suit your style — whether that’s playful and adventurous, or calm and cosy.


The most important thing is that it feels like you.


Please note that travel fees may apply

What to wear

the number one question i'm asked!
What to Wear for Your Maternity Shoot

The goal of your maternity session is to highlight your beautiful bump while keeping you comfortable and confident. Flowy dresses, form-fitting gowns, or soft fabrics that drape naturally all photograph beautifully and create a timeless feel. Neutral tones and earthy colours work well in almost any location, while softer pastels or muted shades add a gentle, dreamy touch. If bold colours are your style, they can make a gorgeous statement too — the most important thing is that you feel like yourself.


When planning outfits, think about balance and movement. Dresses with texture or gentle movement in the fabric add interest without distraction, and a well-fitted top with jeans or leggings can be just as striking if you prefer something simple. Partners and children are welcome to be included, so choose complementary tones that coordinate without matching exactly. Above all, wear something you can relax and move in — because the best images come when you feel comfortable and at ease.

What to Wear for Your Newborn Shoot

Newborn sessions are all about comfort and connection, so simple, soft clothing works best for both parents and baby. For your little one, avoid stiff fabrics or outfits with lots of buttons, collars, or overalls — these can bunch and feel uncomfortable when your baby is being held or curled up. A plain onesie, soft wrap, or a simple knit works beautifully and keeps the focus on their tiny features. Neutral and muted colours also photograph well and keep the images timeless.


For parents and siblings, choose comfortable, coordinating tones that feel natural together without being too matchy. Soft textures like linen, knits, and cottons add warmth without distraction. Keep in mind that your baby will likely be in your arms for much of the session, so avoid busy patterns or large logos that might take attention away from those tender moments. Above all, wear something you feel good in — these photos are about capturing your family as you are, in this precious season.

What to avoid.

Just trust me guys


Big logos

Baseball caps

Fluorescent colours

Uncomfortable clothes

Thin stripes or checks

And what about baby?


Dress baby in plain clothes. While that little darling dress or overalls look super cute, in photos they often look a bit bunchy and distracting. Just a plain onesie is totally fine. And maybe a hat. Because babies with hats are delicious.​


BLANKETS AND SWADDLES.


We will probably end up shooting on your bed at some stage, I’d recommend you choose a neutral and photogenic linen for the beds and bassinet. I like to use what is on hand so if you have some plain swaddles and blankets, keep them handy. Did your nana knit you something special? Or do you have a blanket that was yours when you were little? Let's use them. It will give you all the feels.  

Candid, real and unposed photography

newborns & babies

You already know that I don't do super posed, baby-in-a-basket studio sessions.  That's why you booked! Instead I like to have a more relaxed approach, with unplanned authentic moments captured in the comfort of your home.​ I enjoy capturing the perfectly imperfect and the beauty of the every day.

How does it work?


I show up. We chat. I get my camera out. Start shooting. That's it in a nut-shell. ​


Basically, I'll look for the light and guide you guys to where will work best. I might start with some shots of baby by themselves or I might start with family photos. Each session is guided by the baby and their mood.   ​If you think that baby will be mid-nap when I get there, plan ahead and get them changed into their outfit before putting them down. If you are really wanting sleepy baby photos, then I would suggest bathing them an hour before I get there, dressing them in the shoot clothes and then giving them a full feed before putting them down.


We might shoot in multiple locations around the house. The key rooms I usually use are the living room, the baby's room and the master bedroom.  


YOUR HOME


I'm just gonna say this now - I don't care if your home is insta worthy or not! Your home does NOT need to be perfect. Whether you are in a tired rental or your beautiful forever home, it is where your story is being told right at this moment. Remember we are capturing connection and emotions and that beautiful baby of yours - that's what is important!


I don't edit out things that are lying around so if you don't want your nipple cream that's sitting on the nightstand in the shot then do a real quick run through before I get there.  I'm not saying make your home look like it's not lived in. Because it IS lived in, and it should reflect your life as authentically as possible.   


Here's all you need to do.  


1. Make beds.

2. Throw washing in the laundry and close the door.

3. Grab a washing basket, whip through the rooms and chuck anything in it that you don't want in the shot.

4. Hide the washing basket.  

Boom. 'Clean' house in 5 minutes.  

Family or fur babies

let's get em in here

Grandma is visiting? Let's get Grandma in a shot.  Fur baby that has recently been replaced by a real baby? Bring 'em in. Older kids at school? Get them home early and involve them.  Totally fine by me. Just remember - this isn't a studio session, I do not expect your kiddos (or doggos for that matter) to be perfect and smile for the camera. I will do my absolute best to get them involved and get them to have fun and cuddle their sibling (bribes might be handy to have on hand), but please don't stress out about it, particularly if they are really little. There are plenty of times in the future to get some CUTE sibling pics - like when I come back to do your family photos next year.


One thing to note - if you do have a toddler please make sure that the shoot is the only thing planned that afternoon or morning. Keep them home from preschool (at least until after the shoot!) as they can come home tired and cranky and you might end up spending lots of our time tending to their needs.

and that's it



I'll edit your photos, send you the gallery link and we are good to go.


I'm excited to be a tiny part of this journey with you!