Are you immunised against whooping cough?

Yes – because I work with babies on such a regular basis, I have had my vaccination and have the booster whenever required.

When should I book my pregnancy session?

These sessions usually take place between 32 – 36 weeks. On the odd occasion, these may take place after 36 weeks, but I find that most women are more physically comfortable before it gets any later into their pregnancy.

When should I book my newborn session?

As early as possible – I have some people book in when they are only just pregnant! I only take on a limited number of sessions each month, and therefore it’s always best to book in so that your due date is in my diary. Babies can be unpredictable and may come early or late, so I am as flexible as possible when this happens.

When your baby arrives, it’s important to let me know as soon as possible so that we can confirm a date in the studio before the baby is 14 days
of age.

Why should we aim for a session before the baby is 14 days of age?

When a baby is within the first week or two of their life, they are usually at their sleepiest. This is the best time for your newborn session, because they generally tend to be easier to settle and simply need a top up feed before popping back to sleep. By photographing them at this sleepy, settled stage, it means the session will slightly shorter and therefore easier on Mum, Dad and Baby (and any siblings that have come along!). I will never rush a newborn session – if they need a feed or settling, then so be it! Plus, it’s a chance for me to have a little cuddle too!!

Where will the newborn session be held?

Newborn sessions take place at my studio in Queenstown (just near Port Adelaide), starting at 10am. This is so that I can control the elements (heating, light etc) in familiar surroundings, to give you the best images I possibly can. Also, I have access to all of the equipment/props that I need.

When is the best time to have my family session?

Family sessions are best scheduled for approximately 1.5 – 2 hours before sunset. This is by far the nicest light of the day, and allows for the opportunity to make use of the “golden hour”. Pregnancy sessions held outdoors will also have this time frame apply to the session.

Where should we hold our family session?

We’ll work out a spot that is mutually convenient for us all. But, I do travel to the Barossa, Fleurieu Peninsual, Adelaide CBD, Adelaide Hills, and even the Murraylands. We’ll aim for somewhere with some lovely open shade, or a location that’s special to you and your family.

I have clients interstate and in the country – please don’t hesitate to ask about a session even if you’re a long way away! I’m more than happy to travel (with just a small travel fee).

What to wear?

Picking your outfits for your session can be really tricky, but I am here
to help and more than happy to discuss this with you at length. I love to help coordinate colours and outfits and welcome discussing this at length prior to your session. When coordinating outfits for 2 or more people, I recommend going with the theory that you want to “blend” as opposed to “match”. Try to avoid all wearing the same outfits (i.e. blue jeans and white t-shirts). Try to avoid bold logos or heavy patterns.

For studio sessions, please note that the temperature of the room will be reasonably high in order to keep the baby warm.

What to bring to your session?

For newborn sessions, I have an assortment of wraps and throws, hats, bonnets and beanies. However, you may have something special that you’d like to bring along – a little teddy, gifts from loved ones, or even heirloom items are absolutely wonderful additions to your sessions. I’ve had babies wearing hats that their grandparents wore as babies – it’s a really beautiful and touching way to include family history in your session, or even simply a lovely gesture to include a gift from a family member or godparent.
Bring along items that won’t “age” quickly, are subtle and made of textured fabrics…if in doubt, bring it along and we can work it all out once
you’re here.

For family sessions with young children in particular, please be sure to bring snacks, drinks and any favourite items belonging to your child.

Will you use props/hats in every newborn session?

This all depends on the baby. I will not compromise a baby’s safety and I will not use props if I don’t think that the baby is sleepy enough, or if it will put a baby in any danger – I’d rather say no and disappoint a parent, than put a baby in danger. I’ve had many years of experience “reading” babies and their body language, and will not put a baby at risk in any way.

I use specific props that I feel are safest and will always ask a parent to sit close by for safety as well. Every blanket and wrap used is washed after each session to ensure hygiene is taken into account.

Do I need to bring props etc?

For newborn sessions, I use a “less is more” approach and don’t heavily use props. I have some basic props that I keep in my studio. However, if you have something specific that you’d like to use, please feel free to bring it along.

For family sessions outdoors, you might like to bring along a quilted blanket or special items for your toddler/child.