Session Planner - Newborn

First thing to think about is where you would like your shoot to take place?

In home


If you're after a cosy session in the comfort of your own home then this is a great option! If your house has great natural lighting and feels comfortable for you then there is no need to worry about even leaving the house. I will bring everything I need with me. If you would like to include an activity during your session then add this into your questionnaire. Coffee and croissants at the table, a shower with baby or their first bath. Maybe you have a beautiful garden that we can take a little wander outside in. We have up to 2 hours so plenty of time. If you're not too sure and you just want the 'normal' style session then just let me take the lead.

At the studio


The studio is a 25 minute drive out of town located on a friends property. It feels quite peaceful on the drive out there with beautiful views to take in on the way. This might just be your first family outing. The space is small and snug with white walls and neutral styling. It has a bed, couch and the newborn posing bean bag. It has a bathroom and space to bring your capsule/bag and change in. If your house isn't super aesthetic or have good natural lighting or you just prefer to leave the mess at home and enjoy a space that's light and neutral then this is your answer.


New studio space in Blenheim opening from Jan 2025.

Or outdoors


Why not break the rules a little... Do you have a super outdoorsy family that you would prefer to be out in nature? A mid-morning or a sunset session could be for you. (Especially if you have other kids that you're not sure if you can be contain indoors). Have baby dressed warm and we can wrap them so they are nice and snug. My workflow and positioning of baby will work for any session location. I also have a moses basket I am happy to bring along.


Click here to view my location guide.

Next let's talk about when to have your session.


From a photographers perspective the best window of opportunity for newborn photos is when baby is around 14 days old.


Why? Because they are so tiny AND this is when they are super sleepy, easy to naturally pose on parents and move without waking or disturbing them. The goal is to have baby content and sleeping during the session. If they are awake and happy during the session this is absolutely ok! I fully understand that at the time this may feel like the absolute last thing you want to do. You might have been up multiple times throughout the night, feel tired, the hormones are going crazy and you are so early postpartum. I have been there too. Give yourself grace, I am here to support you and make sure you're comfortable throughout the session. This is a time to sit back and enjoy staring at that beautiful baby you grew inside your belly.

Trust me it will be worth it.


If you need a little extra time that is no problem at all any time under 6 weeks is still great.

HOW IT WORKS? - Booking in the session date


What I do is tentatively pencil you in the system 2 weeks past your due date. Once you let me know your baby has arrived I will give you some date options to choose from. It is so unpredictable to know when your baby will arrive so don't stress just get in touch as soon as they are here.


If you have an induction/c-section date booked in please do let me know and we can prebook your session date.

What to wear for your session?


For mum I suggest having something that is postpartum and breastfeeding friendly (if you are able/choosing to breastfeed). Please do not expect to slip back into your jeans just after having your baby. From personal experience it took me well over 2 years to 'feel myself' again so give yourself the grace and love that your body deserves. Wear something that is beautiful and comfortable for you. The general rule for photos is to wear neutral or earthy colours. I suggest avoiding colours like blue, red, yellow, black and crisp white or anything that has large words/logos across the top.


I recommend having 1 outfit choice for yourself one outfit/wrap choice for baby. Let's keep it simple.


If you would like any advice or to request a try on please let me know.

What does a newborn session look like?

my workflow

I have a newborn workflow of positions which works so so well. This allows me to get those delicious dreamy newborn photos and all their tiny details. We often start the session with offering bubs a feed and I will wrap and rock baby to sleep. We begin with bubs upright gently positioned on each parent, we get the family photos then siblings (if they are willing). Then we get baby on their own. There is plenty of time if baby needs extra feeds, changing or resettling.

How to make the session feel like you?

  • Include a special heirloom blanket or some knitted booties that someones nana has knitted and lovingly passed down.
  • Seek inspiration - have a look on Pinterest and if you see an image that speaks to you and want to put your own spin on let me know in the questionnaire.
  • Enjoy the session I want you to look at your baby, chat to your partner and smile throughout let me capture your banter and quirks too.