your Perfect baby
There's a moment usually around 3am during the fourth feed of the night when you look down at your baby's tiny face and think, "I need to remember this forever."
Those squishy cheeks. Those impossibly small fingers wrapped around yours. The weight of them sleeping on your chest. The newness of everything.
But here's what every mum discovers: those moments slip away faster than you ever imagined.
One day you're cradling a sleepy newborn who fits perfectly in the crook of your arm. The next, you're chasing a crawling baby who's already outgrown every outfit you swore would last months.
That's why I'm so passionate about newborn photography. Not because I love taking photos (though I do), but because I know what it feels like to blink and realise those precious early days are already a blur.
As a mum of three myself, I understand. And as a Gold Coast newborn photographer with over 12 years of experience, I've helped hundreds of families capture these fleeting moments before they're gone.
If you're reading this, you're probably wondering about newborn photography how it works, whether it's safe, what it costs, and if it's really worth it.
Let me answer every question you have, so you can make the best decision for your family.
the preparation
When is the Best Time for Newborn Photos?
The sweet spot is 5–14 days after birth.
In this window, your baby is still incredibly sleepy, curls up naturally into those gorgeous poses, and hasn't developed baby acne yet. It's when we can capture that perfect "brand new" look the one you'll want to remember forever.
But I know what you're thinking: "What if my baby arrives early? Or late? Or I'm not ready by then?"
Here's how we make it work:
When you book during pregnancy (ideally around 6-7 months), we secure what I call a "priority window" with your creative fee. This reserves your spot on my calendar without committing to an exact date because let's face it, babies have their own timeline!
Once your little one arrives, you simply let me know and we'll schedule your session within those first precious weeks. Early arrival? Late arrival? We adjust accordingly. There's no stress, no pressure, no penalty.
What if your baby is already older than 14 days?
Don't worry I can still photograph babies up to 4-6 weeks old. The session just changes slightly. Older babies are more alert and awake, so we focus on lifestyle shots rather than curled-up sleepy poses. Still beautiful. Still precious. Just different.
And if you've had a complicated birth or C-section and need more recovery time?
Your health comes first, always. We can push the session back a week or two. Life with a newborn is unpredictable, and I work with you to make sure your session is calm, not stressful.
The main thing is this: don't let worry about "the perfect timing" stop you from booking. We'll make it work.
How Do I Know My Baby Will Be Safe?
This is the most important question, and I'm so glad you're asking it.
Your baby's safety is my absolute priority not the photos, not the poses, not the "perfect shot." Nothing matters more than keeping your precious newborn safe and comfortable.
Here's what that looks like in practice:
I'm Kelly Brown certified in newborn safety photography. This means I've completed specialised training specifically for handling and posing newborns safely. I know which poses are safe, which require spotting (a parent's hand always on baby), and which should never be attempted.
I've also been photographing newborns for over 12 years and have three children of my own. I understand newborn cues, I know when a baby needs a break, and I never push a pose if baby isn't comfortable.
Your baby's comfort comes before any shot. If they're fussy, we pause. If they need to feed, we feed. If a pose isn't working, we move on. There's never any rushing or forcing.
Every prop, wrap, and basket I use is thoroughly cleaned after each session. The studio is kept warm (newborns love warmth!), and I always have a parent nearby during posing.
You're not just hiring a photographer you're trusting someone with your days-old baby. I take that responsibility seriously, and I promise you'll feel confident and calm throughout the entire session.
What Actually Happens During a Newborn Session?
Newborn sessions are on average 2 hours, but I always tell families to allow 2-3 hours.
Why? Because there's no rush. No stress. No tension.
Babies feed when they need to. They have nappy changes. Sometimes there's a blowout (don't worry everything is washable!). Sometimes they just need extra cuddles to settle.
All of that is completely normal and expected.
In fact, even on the "best" sessions, babies are fussy at some point. That's just life with a newborn! My job is to work around your baby's needs, not the other way around.
You'll never leave one of my sessions thinking, "That was stressful." You'll leave thinking, "That was actually really lovely."
And if something happens wees, spit-ups, little accidents truly, don't worry. Everything gets washed after every session. It's all part of the process, and it doesn't faze me one bit.
What's included in your Package fee?
✅ The session time
✅ Use of all props, wraps, baskets, and clothing for baby
✅ 18 beautiful dresses and gowns for mum to choose from
✅ All the prep work and collaboration before your session
✅ My expertise in creating the images you'll treasure
How much do the image collections cost?
I believe in total transparency, so here's the breakdown:
Collections start at $550 and include 10 digital images
Our most popular collection is $725 and includes 20 digital images.
The full collection is $950 and includes your entire gallery of images, 30+ images
Most Gold Coast families invest between $750–$1,500.
I know that's not a small investment. But here's what I want you to consider:
These aren't just photos. They're the only tangible proof of these fleeting days. They're the images you'll show your child when they're older. Purchasing wall art that will make you smile every single day. They're heirlooms.
When you're holding your 10-year-old and wondering where your baby went, these photos will be priceless.
Where Are Session held?
All newborn sessions are held in my private home studio, which is fully equipped with everything you need:
✨ Temperature-controlled environment (kept lovely and warm for baby)
✨ All the props, baskets, wraps, and posing equipment
✨ Nappies and wipes (one less thing to pack!)
✨ A wardrobe of eighteen dresses and gowns for mum
✨ Everything needed to create beautiful, timeless images
You don't need to worry about bringing anything except yourself, your baby, and your family. I've got the rest covered.
My studio is located on the Gold Coast, and there's easy parking available.
Can We Include Family Members in the Photos?
Absolutely and I encourage it!
These aren't just newborn photos. They're your first family photos with your newest member. Mum, dad, siblings everyone is welcome and encouraged to be part of the session.
I know getting everyone in one frame with a newborn and toddlers can feel impossible, but I've got a few tricks up my sleeve to get even the wiggliest kids smiling. (After three kids of my own and 12 years of experience, I've learned a thing or two about making little ones cooperate!)
I also encourage parents to use the time when I'm photographing baby alone to give older siblings some extra cuddles and attention. Bringing home a new baby is a big adjustment for them too, and those one-on-one moments during the session can be really special.
What Should We Wear?
For mum: You don't need to stress about this at all. I have a wardrobe of eighteen dresses and gowns specifically for newborn sessions. You'll choose what you'd like to wear when you arrive, and I promise you'll feel beautiful in your photos.
For dad and siblings: Keep it simple with whites, tans, blacks, or denim similar tones but not necessarily matching. Think coordinated, not matchy-matchy.
But here's the thing: I send every family a detailed questionnaire before the session where we talk about your vision, the colors in your home, your aesthetic, and what will look beautiful on your walls.
I'll guide you every step of the way. You're not doing this alone.
How Long Until We Get Our Photos?
Your reveal appointment will be ready within 2 weeks of your session.
At the reveal, you'll see all your beautifully edited images and choose your collection that day. You'll also take your digital images home with you that same day.
Once you've chosen your collection, I'll organize and order your prints, albums, and products within 2-3 days. Printing takes approximately 5-8 days with our professional lab, and then everything will be ready for you to pick up.
So from session to having your digitals in hand: 2 weeks.
From ordering to receiving your products: about 1-2 weeks after that.
If you choose the full collection, you'll also get priority turnaround for even faster delivery.
What If We Need to Reschedule?
Life with a newborn is beautifully unpredictable. I get it.
That's why the priority window system exists it covers early arrivals, late arrivals, and any unexpected situations that come up.
I only book 8 newborn sessions per month, which gives us plenty of room to be flexible. If baby arrives early, we adjust. If mum needs to go back to hospital, we reschedule. If something comes up, we work it out.
There's no penalty for rescheduling due to health reasons or circumstances beyond your control. My goal is to make your session as calm and beautiful as possible not add stress to an already overwhelming time.
Why You Shouldn't Wait to Book
Here's what I wish every mum knew:
You will never regret taking newborn photos. But you might regret not taking them.
I can't tell you how many mums have told me, "I wish I'd done this with my first," or "I can't believe I almost didn't book these photos are everything."
The truth is, those tiny newborn days go by in a blink. Right now, in the middle of the sleepless nights and endless feeds, it might feel like time is standing still. But it's not.
One day sooner than you think you'll look back and wish you could remember exactly what their tiny hands looked like. How they smelled. How it felt to hold them when they were this small.
Photos are the only way to hold onto those moments.
And not just any photos. Not just phone snaps (though those are precious too). I'm talking about beautiful, professional images that you'll print, frame, hang on your walls, and treasure for the rest of your life.
Images that your child will one day show their own children.
That's the real investment. Not in photos in memories. In legacy. In love made tangible.
You Deserve Beautiful Photos of This Chapter
Being a new mum is hard. You're exhausted. You might not feel like yourself yet. Your body is recovering. Your emotions are everywhere.
I know, because I've been there.
But here's what I also know: you deserve to see yourself the way your baby sees you. As their whole world. As perfect, exactly as you are.
When you come to my studio, I'll make sure you feel beautiful. I'll guide you through everything. I'll create images that capture not just what your baby looked like, but what this season of life felt like.
The love. The connection. The overwhelming tenderness of those early days.
And years from now, when you look at these photos, you won't see the sleepless nights or the recovery or the chaos.
You'll see your baby. And you'll remember exactly how much you loved them right from the very beginning.
Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?
If you're expecting or have recently welcomed your baby, I'd be honored to photograph this precious time for you.
With only 8 newborn sessions available per month, spots fill quickly especially during busy baby seasons.
Don't wait until it's too late. Book your priority window now, and we'll schedule your session once your little one arrives.
Your future self will thank you for capturing these moments.
Contact me today to secure your spot → www.genesisimagery.com.au
Maylea Sandhu
Gold Coast Newborn Photographer
Kelly Brown Certified | 12+ Years Experience | Mum of 3 | Childcare background
