Newborn Session Guide
Those early days with a new baby at home can feel slow, messy, tender and fleeting all at once. This guide walks you through what to expect from a session with me and how to prepare in a way that feels simple for the whole family.
What to expect
Newborn life is unpredictable, and that’s totally okay. When you’re fresh into the postpartum season, the last thing you need is pressure or a strict plan.
My sessions are relaxed, baby led, and centred around your family as you are right now, messy, tired, real, and full of love. I don’t pose newborns into perfect positions and I don’t expect your baby to sleep the whole time.
The most important thing is to keep mum and baby comfortable and let moments unfold naturally, whether that’s cuddles, feeding, settling, or quiet snuggles.
If your baby does drift off, I’ll capture those sleepy, dreamy moments when they happen, but it’s not the main goal.
I’ll mostly photograph your baby in your arms, on your chest, or nestled into your shoulder. I want the images to authentic to your family.
Sessions are unhurried and flexible.
I’ll gently guide when it’s helpful, suggesting a place to stand, sit, or move but most of the session is simply space for you to be together.
Everything happens at your pace. Feeding, settling, waking, fussing, it’s all part of this season, and it all belongs in your story.
Some of the most beautiful photos happen when no one is trying to perform for the camera. That’s when the real connection shows up.
I will always capture tender sibling moments, but I don’t want them to feel forced or staged.
The best sibling photos usually happen when kids feel comfortable and free to be themselves. There’s no pressure for cuddles, kisses, or sitting still. I find it best to give them space to warm up, play nearby, and interact in their own time.
I’ll follow their lead and be ready for the small real moments as they happen. A quick glance, a hand on the baby, a burst of laughter or a quiet pause beside each other. Those are the moments that end up meaning the most.
How to Prepare
Be gentle with yourself
This is a season of adjustment, sleep deprivation, and big emotions. You don’t need to be “on” for the session. Choose simple activities that feel natural to your day, a slow morning with your baby, cuddles on the couch, feeding, or quiet moments in your bedroom.
Keep it real
You don’t need to clean your whole house, just a quick tidy for anything you don’t want in the photos is fine. The session is about your life right now, not a perfectly styled home.
Bring the things that matter
If there’s a blanket you love, a special outfit, or something meaningful you want included, bring it along. These small details help make the photos feel personal and true to your family.
Time and Location
In-Home or Outdoors
Choosing between an in-home or outdoor session really comes down to what you want your photos to hold onto from this season of life.
Home sessions are all about slowing down and capturing your new life at home, the quiet, intimate moments that make this time so special. They’re perfect for those first weeks when you’re still adjusting to life with a newborn and want to document the real, everyday moments. Think of it as a gentle, unhurried session where we capture the soft morning light through your windows, cuddles on the couch, tiny hands and sleepy snuggles, and the little routines that feel uniquely yours.
Outdoor sessions can be a fun option if you’re feeling up for it, and if you want a bit of space and movement. Beaches and creeks, can feel freeing and fresh, but only if it feels comfortable for you and your baby. These sessions work really well for families who want a bit more energy and room for older siblings to run, explore, and play.
If you’re torn, think about where your family feels most like themselves, or what you’d love to remember when you look back at these photos. Both options are relaxed, child-led, and guided gently, they just tell slightly different stories.
For some inspiration on what might suit your family best, check out my favourite locations in the guide below.
Sunrise, Sunset or somewhere in between
When it comes to choosing a time, light plays a big part. For outdoor beach sessions, sunrise and sunset are best, the light is softer, the beaches are quieter, and everything feels a little calmer.
In-home sessions and work best in the mid-morning, when the light is gentle and spaces feel bright and open. We’ll always choose a time that suits your family, and I’m happy to work around nap schedules and whatever else your day needs.
What to Wear
Comfort first
What you wear plays a big role in how your photos will look and feel, but the most important thing is that everyone is comfortable. When you feel good, it shows. Choose soft, breathable fabrics that allow you to move freely especially for kids! So they can run, climb, and play without feeling restricted.
Colours matter
Try to avoid everyone rocking up in all white T-shirts, instead, aim for complimentary colours that work together. Think soft, earthy tones or muted shades that sit nicely alongside each other. Small patterns or subtle textures are fine, but avoid anything too bright that will distract from the natural flow of the images.
For a deeper dive on colour choices, layering, and styling your family for your session, check out my style guide here.
Dress for the environment
Think about the location and what makes sense for it. If we’re at the beach, lighter fabrics and layers work best, something that allows for movement and doesn’t mind a bit of water or sand. If we’re at a creek, soft linen and easy, comfortable clothing is perfect for exploring and getting a little adventurous.
At home, it’s all about feeling like you belong in the space, your comfy jeans and favourite shirt, something that feels like you and fits the everyday vibe of your home.
Client closet
If you’d rather not think about what to wear, take a look at my client closet page. I’ve got pieces for mum and baby that you are welcome to borrow for you photo session.
A few styling tips
Avoid bright white cotton t-shirts — they don’t photograph well, especially in bright locations like the beach. Instead opt for soft linen, cream or grey.
Wear texture — denim, linen, and soft knits photograph beautifully and add depth.
Avoid overdressing your newborn - Newborns don’t need anything fancy. A soft knit, a cosy onesie, or just a nappy cover is perfect. The simpler the outfit, the more natural and timeless your photos will feel.
Avoid big logos — they date easy and can look out of place in an outdoor environment (a small logo is fine, but big characters can dominate the image).
Keep patterns simple — a few subtle patterns are great, but too many bold prints together can feel busy.
Add a pop of colour — one bold piece can look amazing, but keep it balanced across the family.
Bring a backup outfit — especially for kids who will run straight to the water!
If you’re still unsure, have a browse through my style guide for more inspiration and how to bring your families outfits together in a way that is authentic to you.
A final word
Focus on Each Other
Forget the camera is there. Enjoy your family time, laugh with your kids, share a cuddle with your partner, and just relish the moment. We’ll capture the real, candid essence of your family. If you want a photo with everyone looking at the camera, just let me know. Kids want your attention and they’ll be much more engaged if you are looking at them rather than telling them to look into the camera.
Embrace the Chaos
Kids will be kids, and that is the magic. Let them be wild, run around, and just be themselves. The most heartwarming photos often come from those spontaneous, joy-filled moments. Let them explore and play, because those are the moments that capture the magic of everyday life.
Be Present in the Moment
Let go of any expectations and fully immerse yourself in the experience. The most beautiful photos come from genuine connections and emotions. Whether you are snuggling with your newborn, playing with your children, or sharing a quiet moment with your partner, being present will allow your true emotions to shine through, creating timeless memories.
