What to Expect From a Newborn Photo Shoot | Baby Photographer Melbourne
There is something so special about those first few weeks with a new baby. They are tiny, sleepy, constantly changing, exhausting and completely wonderful all at once.
A newborn photo shoot is a chance to slow down and capture all those little details, their tiny fingers and toes, sleepy stretches, little expressions, cuddles and the way they fit so perfectly into your arms.
As a newborn and baby photographer in Melbourne's west, I want your session to feel relaxed, comfortable and completely focused on your baby and your family.
When should you have a newborn photo shoot?
The first few weeks are a beautiful time for newborn photographs. I recommend aiming for around 5–21 days old if possible, as babies are often sleepier and easier to gently pose during this stage.
That said, the newborn stage goes by so fast and before you know it, you already have a one month old.
I will photograph babies up to around 6 weeks old, so if you've missed those first couple of weeks, don't think you've missed your opportunity for beautiful newborn photos.
Older babies bring their own little personalities, expressions and interactions, and I am always happy to work with where your baby is at on the day.
What happens during a newborn photography session in Melbourne’s West?
My newborn photo shoots are baby-led and relaxed. There is no expectation that your baby will sleep the entire time, and there is certainly no need to worry if they need to be fed, cuddled or settled throughout the session.
Your session can include a combination of gently posed newborn photographs, studio style family photos, photographs of your baby on their own, and natural photos with parents and siblings.
What should you bring to your newborn photo shoot?
You don't need to pack any more than you usually would leaving the house with a baby.
I have a baby client wardrobe available for newborn sessions, with pieces selected to work beautifully with the simple, timeless style of the photographs.
I'd recommend bringing the usual things you'd already have in your nappy bag, nappies, wipes and anything your baby needs to feel comfortable. I also have spare wipes in the studio, because there are always a few things that get forgotten when you're adjusting to life with a newborn!
You are also welcome to bring along anything special you'd like included in your photographs.
Do parents and siblings get photographed too?
Absolutely.
Your newborn photo shoot isn't just about photographs of your baby. These first few weeks are also about your family as it is right now.
We'll capture photographs of your baby on their own as well as photographs with you, your partner and any siblings.
I will gently guide you through the photos, so you don't need to know how to pose or feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Studio or lifestyle newborn photography?
I offer both studio and lifestyle newborn photography in the studio, so we can choose the option that feels right for your family, or a bit of both.
Lifestyle photographs can be a beautiful choice if you prefer something more natural and relaxed, these can be taken in your own home or in the studio.
Whichever option you choose, the most important thing is that you and your baby are comfortable.
What if my baby cries?
That's completely okay.
Babies cry. They need to feed. They need cuddles. Sometimes they just don't want to sleep.
You don't need to arrive at your newborn photo shoot hoping your baby will be perfectly settled for two hours. That's not realistic, and I don't expect it.
We'll stop when your baby needs us to and start again when they're ready.
Why book a newborn photographer?
The newborn stage really doesn't last long.
You might think you'll remember how tiny they were, how they curled their legs up, the little noises they made or how their whole body fit against your chest. But those details change incredibly quickly.
A professional newborn photo shoot gives you photographs of those details to come back to.
Not just the perfectly posed photographs, but the tiny things that made your baby your baby at that particular moment.
Their little toes.
The wrinkles on their feet.
The sleepy stretches.
The way they held your finger.
The way they fit in your arms.
The first photographs of your growing family.
These are the things you'll look back on when they are no longer so little.
Newborn photography in Melbourne's west
If you're looking for a baby photographer in Melbourne, I offer newborn photography for families in Melbourne's Western Suburbs, with my studio based in Melton.
My approach is relaxed, baby-led and focused on creating photographs that feel natural to your family. I have experience working with newborns and have completed safety training, so your baby's comfort and safety are always at the centre of the session.
There is no need to feel prepared for everything before you arrive. I'll guide you through the session, help with posing and give you plenty of time to feed, settle and cuddle your baby whenever they need it.
If you're expecting a baby and looking for a newborn photographer in Melbourne, I'd love to help you capture these first few weeks.
