NEWBORNS


WHEN TO SCHEDULE A NEWBORN SESSION:

To secure a booking for your newborn, it is important that you contact me to reserve a session while you are still pregnant. I take a limited number of newborn bookings per month to allow enough flexibility for babies who arrive early or late - they very rarely arrive when they're supposed to :) As a general guide I book out between 2-3 months in advance for newborn sessions but will do my best to schedule a session if you contact me once you've already had the baby.


Newborn sessions are best done when babies are under 2 weeks old, if possible. During this time newborns tend to be sleepier and retain their newborn curl. I receive many enquiries regularly from people who have already had their baby, and not realised until after they're born that newborns are best photographed in the first few weeks. If you miss the 2 week window, that is fine and I still offer newborn sessions for older babies, however it is more common for the baby to be more alert and awake, and less likely to be posed in those super curly positions.


Newborn sessions are usually done in my studio in Terrey Hills on the Northern Beaches or can be done at your home (there is a location fee applicable). I have sourced many gorgeous props from all over the world to compliment your newborn session.


For sessions held at your home, I utilise natural light. Therefore it will be necessary that you have a decent about of light near a window or sliding glass door. If you don't, I can bring a studio light with me. I will bring all props to you, and I will need that open area to set up.


Newborn sessions are held on weekdays in the morning (usually around 10am), as newborns tend to be more settled in the morning than in the afternoon.


DURING THE SESSION

Newborn sessions will take between 2-3 hours to allow for settling and feeding.

During the session I will use a newborn posing beanbag along with some other props (flokati rug/basket/bowls etc). I will discuss colours and preferences prior to your session. Examples of my props can be found in my portfolio. Sibling and family images are included in my sessions at no extra cost. I also offer lifestyle newborn sessions if you prefer less props and more natural, organic images of your baby.


NEWBORN SAFETY

During your newborn session safety is the main priority. It is important when choosing a newborn photographer that they have the following:

- specialist training in handling/posing/photographing a newborn/babies
- insurance
- vaccinations are up to date


I have attended many newborn and baby workshops over the years with some of Australia's and global best newborn photographers. I also have the appropriate insurance and all my vaccinations are current.


PORTRAITS (Maternity/Families)

Portrait sessions are held in the great outdoors and are scheduled in the late afternoon (1-2 hours before sunset). There are plenty of locations that would make a great backdrop for your family’s portraits, a local park, the beach or a favourite place that you enjoy spending time together as a family. I can also offer portrait sessions in my studio in Terrey Hills.


Most portrait sessions will last for 1 hour. I would encourage you to ensure your little ones are well-rested and have a full tummy prior to the session.


In the event of rain on the day of your session it will need to be rescheduled. Portrait sessions are held on a Sunday afternoon and are best booked in advance as weekend dates fill up very quickly.



WHAT DO I WEAR?


For all sessions, I encourage mums/dads/siblings to wear plain complimentary colours. Avoiding patterns/logos if possible as they tend to date quickly and can be distracting. Less is more :)


Some examples of colour combinations that work well together can be found in the links to the right.


You can also view good examples provided in my family portfolio images.




MATERNITY - What to wear


For maternity sessions, I have a variety of maternity gowns you are welcome to use for the session. I encourage clients to wear something they are comfortable in. Long styles of maxi dresses work really well, as does material that is stretchy and will highlight your beautiful baby bump. You are welcome to have a quick outfit change during the session if you wish.


Alternatively, if you're after something unique and that fits your specific theme or style, there is a local service for gown hire Mama Rentals based on the Northern Beaches of Sydney who have a large variety of beautiful maternity dresses for hire. Their range can be found here: www.mamarentals.com.au and if you mention you're a client of Kristy Jauncey Photography you'll receive a discount off your rental.