What to Expect From a Newborn Family Photoshoot | Newborn Photography Melbourne Western Suburbs

Having a new baby is a pretty big adjustment. Life can feel a little chaotic with feeds, cuddles, nappies, toddler emotions and definitely not enough sleep!

So the thought of getting everyone together for newborn family photos can feel a little daunting. What if the baby cries? What if your toddler refuses to cooperate? What if nobody sits still?

Honestly, that's all completely normal.

My newborn family photography sessions are relaxed and baby-led. There is no expectation that everyone will sit perfectly, smile at the camera and behave themselves for two hours. We simply take things as they come and capture your family as you are.

What happens during a newborn photography session?

A newborn session will usually take around two hours, although there is no strict time limit. We work around your baby rather than trying to fit everything into a set schedule.

We'll take our time getting settled and start with whatever feels easiest on the day. We might begin with some family photos while everyone is together, then move onto photos of your baby and siblings.

There is plenty of time for feeding, cuddles, nappy changes and settling in between.

If your baby is wide awake, that's completely fine too. Some of my favourite newborn photos are of babies looking around, stretching, making little faces or taking everything in.

Your baby doesn't need to sleep

Sleepy newborn photos are beautiful, but your baby doesn't need to sleep through their entire session.

Those little awake moments are just as special. Their tiny expressions, curious eyes and the way they stretch and move are all part of this stage that changes so quickly.

Including older siblings

Including siblings is one of my favourite parts of newborn family photos.

Rather than expecting older siblings to sit still and smile, we'll keep things relaxed and use cuddles, games and little moments to capture their relationship with their new sibling.

And if they're done after five minutes, that's fine. We can move on and come back to them later.

The photos don't have to be perfectly posed to be meaningful. Sometimes the little moments in between are the ones you'll love the most.

What should we wear?

I recommend choosing clothing that is comfortable and works well together without everyone being dressed exactly the same. If you are breastfeeding, take this into consideration when planning your outfit.

Soft creams, whites, beige, earthy tones and other natural colours work beautifully for newborn family photos and keep the focus on your family.

If you're not sure what to wear, I'm always happy to help with outfit ideas before your session.

What if my baby needs to feed?

There is no need to try and work around your baby's feeding schedule just for the sake of photographs. If they're hungry, they're hungry.

The same goes for nappy changes, cuddles, burping or simply needing some time in your arms. We can take as many breaks as your baby needs.

There is no rushing through a newborn photography session.

Do I need to know how to pose?

Not at all.

I'll guide you when you need it, but I want your photos to feel natural and like your family.

We'll capture a mix of gently posed photos and more natural moments, holding your baby, cuddling your older children and simply being together.

You don't need to know what to do with your hands or how to stand. That's what I'm there for!

When should we have our newborn photos taken?

Newborn photos are often taken within the first few weeks, but there isn't one perfect age.

Every baby and every family is different, and beautiful newborn family photos can be captured well beyond those first few days. If your baby is already a few weeks old, you haven't missed your chance.

The most important thing is choosing a time when you're feeling ready and comfortable.

You don't need to have everything together

Newborn life isn't perfect, and your photos don't need to be either.

Your baby might be cluster feeding during the session. Your toddler might refuse to look at the camera. Someone might need a cuddle, a snack or a break.

That's all part of it.

My job is to make your newborn family photoshoot feel relaxed and comfortable while capturing the little things that make your family yours.

One day, you probably won't remember how many times you had to stop for a feed or how many times your toddler wandered off.

You'll just have the photographs of this little stage of your family's life.

And that's why I love newborn family photography so much.