Bringing a brand new baby into the world is one of the most profound, overwhelming, beautiful experiences of your life, right? And somewhere in the middle of the feeding schedules, the happy tears, and the sheer exhaustion, you’ve decided to have those precious early days captured forever (and honestly you will never regret it, but its a lot especially if its your first baby, but so worth it I promise!).
As an Auckland newborn photographer, I want you to walk into your session feeling calm, prepared, and excited and absolutely not stressed. So here’s everything you need to know before we meet.
When Should We Shoot?
Newborn sessions are best captured within the first 2-3 weeks of your baby’s life. During this window, babies are sleepier, more curled and flexible, and easier to settle into those beautiful posed positions. After two weeks, they tend to become more alert and wakeful, which makes posing a little trickier, absolutely still possibly and beautiful – in fact most of my babies are past 3 weeks, and I can attest to this, getting out of the house that early can be a mammoth task, I am all for staying in bed as long as possible, but I do cater to everyone and their needs, so if you’re happy to leave the house I am happy to have you! If you are having a restful postpartum, I honour that, personally that was my route, but like I say, I want to cater to all mamas no matter their choices.
I recommend booking your session while you’re still pregnant , ideally around 28–35 weeks, so your spot is held and we can adjust the date once your baby arrives. Don’t worry if your little one comes early or late, we’ll work it out together.
Session length: Please allow around 1.5-2 hours. I know that sounds like a long time, but newborn sessions are unhurried by design. We take all the time your baby needs for feeds, nappy changes, settling, and cuddles in between setups. There is absolutely no rushing here.
How To Prepare In The Days Before
Keep baby awake before you come in. This sounds a little mean, but it genuinely helps! In the hour or two before your session, try to keep your baby as awake as possible so they arrive drowsy and ready to drift off into a deep sleep in the studio. A well-fed, sleepy baby = the dreamiest photos.
Feed on arrival – A full tummy is the secret to a settled session. You’re also more than welcome to feed again as many times as needed throughout — this is a completely normal part of every newborn session.
Keep baby in an easy-to-remove outfit. Lots of clothing layers = a harder time getting baby settled without waking them. A simple bodysuit or loose wrap works perfectly for the drive over, we then dress and wrap baby once they are settled in studio. Please note my sessions are not full on heavily posed sessions. I use a photography safe wrap (The Swaddle Pro) and a blanket overtop, if baby is uncomfortable or unsettled we adjust, it is baby led and family focused, not prioritising squashing baby into something that makes them upset.
What To Bring
Here’s a simple list so nothing gets forgotten in the new-parent fog (we’ve all been there):
- Nappies and wipes — bring more than you think you’ll need
- Formula or expressed milk if you’re bottle feeding
- A dummy/pacifier if your baby uses one… it’s an absolute lifesaver for settling
- A change of clothes for baby …and honestly, one for yourself too (spit happens!)
- Any special props or keepsakes you’d love included like a hand-knitted blanket from nana, a meaningful toy, a name sign.
- Snacks and a drink for you — you’re a new parent, please eat something. I have cold water available but it is best to bring your own if you can.
What To Wear — For You
I have a client wardrobe of dresses you are welcome to help yourself to, but if nothing there sparks your interest please wear something you have and love.
- Choose neutral, soft tones — creams, whites, dusty pinks, warm greys, sage greens, and earthy tones all photograph beautifully and keep the focus on baby
- Avoid loud patterns or large logos — they can pull attention away from your little one – this is more speaking for dads shirts if they are coming.
- Comfort is everything — you’ve just had a baby, wear something that feels good on your body right now. There’s no pressure to be “dressed up”
- For partners, a simple plain t-shirt or linen shirt in a neutral tone works perfectly
- Bare skin photographs beautifully — a simple wrap or off-the-shoulder top can look stunning for mama
The most important thing is that you feel like you. Don’t overthink it.
On The Day — What To Expect
When you arrive at the studio, the first thing we do is have a relaxed chat. There’s no rushing straight into photos — we feed and let baby settle, get a feel for how they’re tracking, and then we go from there at their pace.
Every session is gently led by your baby. Some babies sail through without a peep. Others need a little more time, a few extra feeds, and a lot of patient settling. Both are completely normal, and both result in the most beautiful images. Trust the process , I’ve got you.
I’ll guide you through every pose and every hold. You don’t need to do anything except love on your baby.
A Note For Anxious Parents
If this is your first time doing a newborn session, or if you’re feeling a little unsure about the whole thing … please know you are so welcome here, exactly as you are.
You don’t need to have it all together. You don’t need to know what you’re doing. You just need to show up, and I’ll take care of the rest.
These photos will matter more than you know. The tired eyes, the tiny fingers, the way your baby curls into your chest, all of it. Let’s capture it.
Ready To Book?
If you haven’t already secured your newborn session, I’d love to hear from you. I recommend getting in touch during your second trimester so we can hold your spot and take the guesswork out of the timing.
Reach out via the contact page — I can’t wait to meet your wee one.
Kimi Knight Photography — Auckland Newborn, Maternity & Family Photographer www.kimiknight.com
