newborn photography

It's time to keep it real.

There's a definite trend in photography, particularly newborn and baby photography, towards overdoing it at the moment with lots of heavily stylised images of babies in impossible – not to mention dangerous – positions propped up with their heads in their hands (these aren't real by the way, they are composites or two images Photoshopped together) or lying in baskets/buckets/you name it wrapped in yards of fluff with garlands of flowers around their heads.

Don't get me wrong, I think these images when done well can be adorable. But I also think that's because babies are always adorable – with or without accessories. And I do wonder – when parents look back at those photos are they transported back to that dreamy newborn haze or simply that day they had those photos taken? Do they look back fondly and remember their perfect brand new baby and what that crazy time as a new parent was like or is it the simple pictures of that cherished blanket your sister gave you, their favourite bear that looks so new and tiny in the photo and the singlet that you couldn't bring yourself to give away but which fits in the palm of your hand now.... the point is if it's not real and there's no emotional connection then it might be a technically impressive image but it won't make you feel all the feels and transport you right back to that moment in a heartbeat.

As photographers, it can be hard to rein ourselves in and it's tempting to over-embellish things and attempt to make everything look perfect. I think we're all guilty of that to some extent these days, only giving the world our edited highlights on Instagram and Facebook. Yes it's fine to highlight the good but if it's not real it won't strike a chord emotionally and it won't be the photo that you will look back on and laugh, cry and wonder "where did the time go?"

Would you like to take part in a new project featuring your beautiful baby? 

I'd love to get back to basics. Babies are so divine just as they are – I don't want to attempt to improve on perfection. I just want to capture them as they are right now and to document this time for you.

The shoot will be complimentary and you will receive a gorgeous 8x12 print to thank you for your participation.

Sessions take place at my studio in Blakehurst, NSW 2221. I find this works well not only because I am set up to make sure your bundle of joy is as comfortable as possible (and you don't have to worry about cleaning your house!) but also because chances are bub will sleep on the drive over making for gorgeous sleepy, womb-like photographs.

However, if you are keen to take part and you can't drive/travel then I am happy to come to you – just contact me here to discuss. I'd love to hear from you!