My Journey as a Maternity and Newborn Photographer in West Melbourne: What Got Me Here

Before I ever photographed another family, I was quietly documenting my own. I picked up a camera simply to capture my children’s everyday moments, my daughter's beautiful curls, my son's little dimples, the tiny hands, the way they looked at each other when they thought I wasn’t watching.

I didn’t know much about photography at the time, but I knew I didn’t want to forget those little details. So I started learning, slowly, how to use my camera, how to work with light, and how to tell our story through photos.

My own experience as a mum

I discovered newborn photography when I was pregnant with my son. I booked a session, and I’m so glad I did.

It was calm, unhurried, and so gentle. I remember how relaxed I felt, and how amazing it was to receive beautiful images that are now displayed in our home. When I was expecting my daughter, I booked them early in my second trimester - newborn photography was so important to me. My children love looking at their newborn photos, especially now that they’re older.

It’s one thing to remember how small your baby was, it’s another to see it. And that feeling stayed with me.

Then came a tiny baby… and a big realisation

Not long after I started learning how to use a camera properly, my sister welcomed her second daughter.  I offered to take some photos for her, and even though I was still learning and really didn’t know what I was doing yet, I was excited to try.

That session was a challenge (as all firsts are!), and didn't turn out at all how I imagined it to, but I loved it. Something about capturing that early stage, the quiet love, the newness of it all, It opened my eyes to how much I loved this kind of photography and the story I was a part of telling.

From family photos… to full-time passion

After that, I kept learning. I started photographing friends and family. I practised. A lot.

My own kids were (not-so-willing) models at first, but now they love what I do, especially when I show them the photos of the babies I get to photograph. My daughter often asks if we can keep them!

Over time, my style developed, my confidence grew, and I knew I wanted to focus on maternity and newborn photography. These early moments are too special not to be documented.

Investing in safety, skill and storytelling

Because I work with tiny humans, safety is always the priority. I stay up to date with vaccines, first aid and CPR, I’ve completed professional newborn safety training, posing workshops, and spent hours perfecting a workflow that’s both gentle and effective.

I’ve even entered my first photography competitions – and was thrilled to receive Top 20 and Highly Commended awards. But the best part? Seeing families light up when they see a sneak peek behind the camera and how excited they are to view their gallery for the first time.

What sessions with me feel like

I come from an education background, so I always aim create a calm and welcoming environment where your family can feel comfortable. Your session isn’t rushed or high-pressure.

Parents can relax on the couch, sit beside me and watch every moment, or jump in for gentle family photos. Whether you want to be in the spotlight or prefer to stay behind the scenes holding your baby’s hand or foot – it’s totally up to you.

My favourite shots? The little details. Close-ups of baby in Mum or Dad’s hands, no faces – just soft, connected, meaningful moments.

I shoot a mix of posed and natural images, with a mostly timeless, neutral-toned style and the occasional soft pop of colour, based on your preferences, which I ask about in your pre-session questionnaire.

Why this work means so much

Some families only experience pregnancy once. Some only have a short window to capture those early days. And we don’t always realise how quickly it all changes until we look back.

Maternity photography celebrates the incredible strength of your body and this beautiful, brief season. Newborn photography, though? That’s the one thing I’d never skip.

Your baby will never be this small again. One day, you’ll compare their photos to your grandchildren’s. These aren’t just pictures – they’re part of your story.

Let’s capture yours

If you’re in Werribee, Hoppers Crossing, Wyndham Vale, Melton or nearby and want a photographer who’s calm, experienced, and focused on helping your family feel safe and supported – I’d love to meet you.

Let’s create something beautiful together.

Want to learn more? Click here to head to my website!