Session Prep Guide
Let’s get you ready for your session!
Hi, I’m Soph!
I’m so glad you’re here. This page has everything you need to know about your upcoming session - what to expect, how to prepare, and a few tips to make the whole experience relaxed and fun.
A bit about me: I’ve always loved photography - people, places, animals, adventures, you name it. But after having kids of my own (and chasing toddlers around with a camera!), I completely fell in love with lifestyle photography.
FOR ME, IT’S ALL ABOUT CREATING MEMORIES THAT FAMILIES CAN LOOK BACK ON AND RELIVE THE
joy, laughter and emotions
OF THE MOMENT
Whether you want to remember the newborn haze in all its beautiful, exhausted glory, create something meaningful for your home, or share something special with family and friends, an in-home newborn session is the most natural and intimate way to do it.
What Happens Next?
Questionnaire - please take 10 minutes to fill out your questionnaire. The more detail the better! It helps me get to know your family and plan for a session that really reflects you. Let me know if there are any specific shots you'd love, or send some inspo if you have a vision in mind.
Your home - no need to deep clean or redecorate! I work with what you have and natural light is my best friend. It does help to have a think about which rooms have the best light, and tidy up any spots you'd love to use as a backdrop (a bed, a nursing chair, a cosy corner). I'll guide you through the rest when I arrive.
What to wear - I've put together some tips below. I'll also bring along a basket of newborn sized outfits which photograph beautifully, so you can have a look on the day and choose an outfit for your little one. I’ll also bring some knitted blankets and wraps to use in your photos.
One week before your session - you'll receive a reminder email asking you to pay the balance on your session.
The day of your session - I'll send you a message to confirm everything is on track and check in on how you're all going. I know how unpredictable those early weeks can be, so please don't stress if you need to reach out!
What to Wear
A few tips for styling your family for your in-home session.
Dress comfortably You've just had a baby. Comfort is everything! You want to feel relaxed and like yourself, not like you're trying too hard. Soft, relaxed clothing photographs beautifully and keeps the focus on the connection between you and your new little one.
Make sure you feel like YOU If you're a jeans and a nice top kind of person, lean into that. If you want to pop on something that feels a little special, go for it. Think about how you'd like to look in these photos framed around your home, and wear something that feels authentic to you.
Quick Styling Checklist
Colours Soft, neutral tones work beautifully at home. Think white, cream, beige, sage, dusty pink, warm grey. Coordinate as a family rather than matching exactly. Avoid busy prints or bold logos that can distract from the subject (your gorgeous baby!).
If you usually like to wear colour - don’t be scared to bring this into your photos!
For mum A soft, fitted top or nursing-friendly style works well. Flowy fabrics photograph beautifully. Comfortable bottoms, jeans, linen pants, knitted sets are all lovely. If a dress is more your style, go for it!
For dad/partner Keep it simple. A plain tee or linen shirt in a neutral or earthy tone.
For siblings Comfortable, age-appropriate outfits in tones that coordinate with the rest of the family.
Feel free to do an outfit change of two - the beauty of an in-home session is you have your wardrobe right there!
Avoid Large logos, licensed characters, cartoon prints, and very bright colours that can dominate the frame.
Some inspiration
Your Session Experience
My goal is simple: make you feel so relaxed you forget there's even a camera there. Maternity sessions are as much about the experience as the photos, and I want you to leave feeling like you had a proper moment to slow down and celebrate this season.
All you need to bring is a good mood. I'll guide you through everything, so there's no need to worry about posing or "not being a photos person." What we're capturing isn't a pose anyway. It's just you, right now, and that's everything.
If your partner or little ones are joining, having everyone fed and ready goes a long way. Kids do best when they're not hungry or overtired, but if someone's having a moment, don't stress. I've seen it all.
One thing that really matters: please arrive on time! Your session is booked around the light, so aim to arrive a few minutes early if you can.
Pregnancy moves so fast, and these photos have a way of becoming some of the most treasured you'll ever have. I can't wait to take them for you.
After the Session
2-3 weeks after your session you will receive an email linking you to your personal online gallery. Photos are watermarked. You’ll be able to download your digital photos (amount is dependant on your package), and it’s easy to upgrade to purchase extras or the lot.
You’ll also be able to order high quality print products through a professional, Aussie print lab, so you can get those photos off your phone and onto your walls!
Your gallery will be online for around 30 days, however I do encourage you to download and save your session images to cloud storage and a hard drive (I always recommend at least two spots!) as soon as possible so you know they are safe.
I would love if you could share your positive experience with your family and friends, even a shout out on social media if you share your images would be appreciated, my business thrives on word of mouth bookings which is the biggest compliment.
A few FAQs
How long is the session? Maternity sessions go for 45-60 minutes. That gives us plenty of time to work through a couple of outfit changes and not feel rushed. If little ones are joining and hit a wall early, we can be flexible, and if they need time to warm up, the best shots are usually in the second half anyway.
What if the weather isn't great? If it's wet, we reschedule. Overcast but dry? We go ahead. Some of my favourite sessions have been on cloudy days, the light is actually really beautiful and flattering.
What should I bring? For beach sessions, pack a towel even if you’re not planning on swimming, and spare outfits for little ones. Also if you are bringing kids along, clean snacks, water, and if you like, some bribery/rewards for afterwards!
Can we bring our dog? Absolutely. Fur babies are very welcome. A good walk beforehand helps burn off some energy so they're a little calmer on the day!
What if someone is sick? We reschedule, no stress. I know how unpredictable life with kids (and pregnancy!) can be. Just give me as much notice as you can and we'll find a new date.
When do we get our photos? Your gallery will be ready around 2 to 3 weeks after your session. You'll receive a private link where you can view, download, and order prints directly through a professional lab, all in your own time.
I hope this has answered all your questions and settled any nerves! I cannot wait to meet you and make sure you have the most beautiful, relaxed experience.
Sophie
