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What to Expect

Preparing for Your Newborn Session
Black and White image of baby fist pumping his dad by Christchurch Newborn Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Shoot day preparation
  1. Wear comfortable light clothing as the temperature of the studio will rise to 28° Celsius, for the comfort of your baby. 

  2. Pack a spare change of clothes just in case there are any little accidents.

  3. Bring a pacifier if you are using one, as they can be very helpful during the session. 

  4. If you are formula feeding, bring some extra bottles, just in case.

  5. Bring a snack for yourself and any older children (drinks will be available at the studio).

  6. For older children, bring some favourite toys or books to keep them entertained.

Newborn baby girl in a floral headband by Christchurch Newborn Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Newborn studio safety

We believe that no image is worth sacrificing the comfort of your baby, and not all babies are comfortable in all positions.

 

Our sessions are baby-led, and we will adjust our planned shots according to their needs.

During the session, an assistant will be with your baby, often keeping a comforting hand on them, ensuring they feel secure and are kept safe throughout.

Learn More about our approach to baby safety.

Newborn baby girl being cuddled by her brother and father by Christchurch Newborn Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
What to wear?

You should wear clothing you feel comfortable in. Neutral colours and simple fabric patterns typically photograph best.

 

For families, coordinating colours tend to work better than completely matching outfits. 

 

As the session progresses, it will get very hot in the studio to ensure your baby remains warm and relaxed. As such, you may find changing into lighter clothing more comfortable after we've finished your images.

 

It is a good idea to have a spare change of clothing in case of any little accidents.

View the Newborn Photo Gallery.

Black and White imNewborn baby boy in a vintage knit outfit by Christchurch Newborn Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Confirming your session 

The best time to photograph your new baby is between day 5 and day 14, while they are still sleepy and curly from the womb.

 

When you book, we will provisionally schedule your session based on your due date. This is a placeholder only - your confirmed date will be scheduled once your baby has arrived.

 

Please contact us by phone or text message as soon as possible after your baby has been born so we can schedule and confirm your session date and time.

On the day of the session, plan on being at the studio for up to 3 to 4 hours. This means we can have plenty of time for feeds and cuddles without any time pressure.  

Four proud siblings cuddle their newborn sister by Christchurch Newborn Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Sibling studio safety

If you are bringing older children to the studio, we suggest making arrangements for someone who can attend with them and take them home or to the local park once we have captured your family portraits.

This will enable you and your baby to relax without distractions during the remainder of the session. 

Please be aware that there is a lot of equipment in the studio and therefore, for their safety, we would prefer that older children are closely monitored and kept in the viewing area when not involved in a photograph.

You may like to read our blog on photographing young children with their baby sibling.

Newborn baby boy sleeping in a tiny bed wearing a vintage knit romper by Christchurch Newborn Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Props and clothing for your baby

We have plenty of props and outfits for you to choose from and like to involve you in the styling of the session.

 

We love incorporating personal and cultural pieces, such as your Whānau Korowai, Sari, or a cherished family heirloom, adding layers of meaning to your portraits

You can see lots of examples of the outfits, wraps and textiles in the newborn gallery.

View the Newborn Photo Gallery.

Black and White image of baby fiThe Studio of Christchurch Newborn Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
The studio

Your session will take place in our relaxing portrait studio downstairs at unit 4 / 27 Waterman Place in Ferrymead 8023.

 

We have parking at our door, and our main entrance is off the courtyard between the buildings.

 

If you have any difficulties finding us, please don’t hesitate to call on 027 523 3939.

Learn More about the studio.

Newborn baby boy being cuddled by his sister by Christchurch Newborn Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Engaging children in the session

We recommend talking to your older children about the session in advance. Tell them our names (Kirsten and Lynley)and explain what we will be doing.

It can also be helpful to explain why you would like to have their portrait taken with their baby sibling. Many families also find it helpful to have a "treat" planned for after the session.

We try to avoid asking children to 'smile' during the session as we find this often leads to an unnatural expression as they try to comply. We prefer to make them giggle and laugh so please let us know if there are any things your kids find funny and be prepared to get right behind me and make faces to get them looking towards the camera! 

You may like to read our blog on photographing young children with their baby sibling.

Newborn baby boy bNewborn Baby Girl sleeps on her tummy in a vintage style pink romper and cute headband by Christchurch Newborn Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
When will your gallery be ready?

A viewing and design appointment will be held at the studio 3-4 weeks after your session.

 

At this appointment, you will be able to view your collection printed and ready for you to take home. You will select your collection, and we will design your framed artwork during this appointment.

 

Artwork and albums will be delivered c.4 weeks later; this may vary slightly for bespoke items; we will advise you of the expected timeline if it differs.

Learn More about Artwork and Albums.

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