How to Choose the Right Photographer for Your Family

If you’ve found yourself googling “best newborn photographer near me” (probably at 1am), you’ve probably realised how overwhelming it can feel.

There are so many options—different prices, packages, styles, and promises—that it’s hard to know what’s really important.

Here’s a little guide to help you cut through the noise and find a photographer who truly fits your family.

1. Price (yes, but not the whole story!)

Let’s be honest—price is usually the first thing people notice. And yes, it matters—but it’s rarely the full picture.

You’ll see everything from beginners charging under $200 for a session, to luxury studios where a full experience can cost thousands. Neither is “wrong,” but it’s worth understanding what you’re actually getting for your money.

Watch out for offers that seem too cheap—like “free model calls” or “looking for five families to photograph.” Often, the session itself is free or very low, but the costs come later with expensive digital files or mandatory print packages.

I price my sessions accessibly and fairly. That means I can take only a handful of newborn sessions each week, so I can give each family time, attention, and flexibility. I understand it can seem like a big expense, which is why I offer payment plans and AfterPay (which work out to be $50 a week).

I also don’t pressure you to buy any prints —you can print wherever you like, or I can assist with via preferred supplier.

2. What’s Included?

It’s easy to get caught up in the price tag, but what’s actually included is far more important:

• How long is the session?

• How many images will you get?

• Are digitals included, or only prints?

Most importantly: are you after just a few key portraits, or a storytelling gallery that captures your baby’s first chapter from multiple angles?

Some family photographers provide only a handful of beautifully posed images. Others (like me!) take a more editorial approach—capturing little details like tiny toes curled on your chest, mum’s hand brushing a cheek, or a big sibling’s proud smile. The end result is a gallery that feels like an album of memories, not just a checklist of poses.

3. Editing Style

Photographers love to say they “edit” their images—but editing can mean very different things.

For some, it’s a quick preset or filter - you can usually tell if very image in their gallery looks the same colour. For others, it’s careful retouching that smooths blemishes, balances shadows, and enhances natural tones.

I keep my colours true to life but with a warm, timeless touch—soft whites, peachy or golden skin tones, and the pink flush of a newborn’s cheek. It's a finely tuned balance between art and nature.

When a sunset sneaks into the frame, I love bringing out its vibrant glow. I remove minor distractions while keeping everything natural.

4. Composition Style

Do you love formal, posed portraits—or candid, in-the-moment images? Do you want romantizied images, or something that is genuine to you? Photographers often lean toward their own style, so it’s worth checking whether it matches your vision. I lean firmly toward capturing real-life connection, movement, and tiny quirks that make your family yours. However, I always make sure to capture a variety of elegant posed shots as well.

When combined with a storytelling approach, this ensures your gallery isn’t just pretty—it’s full of heart.

5. Styling & Props

Do you prefer minimalist neutral tones, elaborate colour filled sets or are happy with just a photographer and their camera in your home? Neither is wrong—it depends on your vision.

For my sessions, I have a client closet available for mothers, siblings, and babies. My sessions tend to be curated lifestyle—carefully weaving your own authentic style with a few aesthetic touches to create a cohesive, beautiful look. I especially love working with neutrals and natural or artisan textures, which feel timeless and soft, letting the real connection in your family shine.

If you can't make to the studio - I can bring a few simple baskets, wraps, and props so you can get a “studio-like” feel at home while still keeping things relaxed and natural. That way, you get both styled keepsakes and candid, everyday moments captured beautifully.

6. Safety, Specialisation & Hygiene

Newborn safety is non-negotiable. These little humans are tiny and fragile.

When you book with me, you’ll always know exactly who you’re getting—it’s just me, no one else. I’m fully vaccinated (including whooping cough), and I’ll never proceed with a session if I’m unwell. In the rare event I can’t attend, I’ll either reschedule or arrange a trusted, experienced, vaccinated stand-in.

I don’t do risky poses that could affect breathing or create a fall hazard. Your baby’s comfort and safety always come first.

And because hygiene is so important for newborns, every item in my client closet is washed and stored hygienically between uses. Wraps, baskets, and props are fresh and safe for your baby every time.

7. Flexibility & Rescheduling

Babies follow their own schedules, not ours. That’s why flexibility is key. Make sure your photographer allows changes.

My newborn photo sessions are booked around your baby’s birth, so we can adjust timing if they arrive early, late, or if you simply need more time to settle in.

If something comes up and you can’t go ahead with the session, your deposit isn’t lost. It can be credited toward another milestone—whether that’s a sitter session, family portraits, or a cake smash.

8. Lighting: Glow Without the Fuss

Lighting can make or break a session. It gives that perfect glow in photos, but it can also feel invasive or restrict movement—especially if it’s studio strobes or on-camera flash.

Personally, I love using natural light. It gives flexibility during the session and creates a final look that feels natural, authentic, and intimate—more like an editorial magazine than a glossy sales catalogue. It lets me capture real moments without interrupting your family’s flow, so the connection, movement, and tiny details shine through in every frame.

✅ Quick Checklist: 5 Questions to Ask Before You Book

• What’s the total cost—including digitals and prints?

  (My session prices are transparent and on the website. As for prints, view print pricing here)

  
  

• How many images are included, and is it a few key portraits or a full storytelling gallery?

  
  

• What’s your editing style? Can I see full galleries, not just highlights?

  
  

• Do you lean more posed and formal, or candid and natural?

  
  

• What’s your approach to newborn safety, hygiene, and rescheduling flexibility?

  
  

Answer these five questions, and you’ll know exactly what to expect—making it easy to compare photographers on more than just starting price.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a Sydney family photographer is a bit like choosing a babysitter—you’re trusting someone with something incredibly precious. You want someone safe, flexible, and skilled at capturing real moments.

I take pride in providing all three: a safe environment for your newborn, the flexibility to fit your family’s timeline, and a storytelling approach that preserves every little detail and memory.