Newborn FAQ’s

When is the best time to book a Newborn Session?

Newborn Photography Sessions are best booked in the middle of your second trimester or at least 6-8 weeks in advance. The best time to book is always before your baby meets the world!

How old should my newborn be for the session?

Newborn sessions are ideally held in the first two weeks after birth (adjusted for premies) when babies are still very sleepy, flexible and easy to settle.

It’s still possible to conduct a newborn-style session after this age (up to about the age of five or six weeks) however you will need to appreciate that it becomes more difficult to re-position babies without waking them if they become unsettled. Older babies will better fit the format our shorter baby sessions.

I ask that all my clients confirm the date within 3 days of your babies birth so we can fit you onto our schedule.

Who may attend a newborn session?

Siblings and other family members are encouraged to be included in the photography session at no additional cost, although the primary focus of the newborn session will be the new baby.

If there are younger siblings who may become unsettled during the course of the long session, I do have some activities and distractions for them to use.

It is also possible to schedule the newborn session and the family sibling images on separate days (subject to availability) if this is more convenient.

How long will a newborn session take?

The actual length of time depends on how settled your baby is on the day. Ample time will be given to feed, change and comfort your baby. Normally around 2-3hrs.

What if my baby just won’t settle?

If your baby is unsettled for an inconsiderable amount of time, it should be still possible to capture a number of lovely images with baby resting in parents arms, wrapped or even feeding.

There is plenty of time allocated to these sessions to allow for whatever measures are required to settle your baby so no-one feels anxious or rushed.

Where do the newborn Sessions take place?

All Newborn Photography Sessions are scheduled in my cosy natural light studio at Warners Bay (2 Barbara Street), and designed for the complete comfort for your family. I like to photograph between 10am-3pm when natural studio light is at its best.

Do I need to bring any props?

No need to bring any props as I have a wide range of fabrics and materials (as seen in my portfolio) that can be used and I will make suggestions as to what works best with your baby. All my fabrics are natural, no synthetic fibres are used that will irritate soft baby skin.

Can you tell me a little about your style of Newborn Photography?

I love to work with natural, light and earthy tones, without an overuse of props, giving your newborn photoshoot a natural timeless look.

I also like to keep images with more focus on your baby rather than the prop. I combine a mixture of unposed standard portraiture and lifestyle to achieve a fresh and natural organic look. I do not use any unsafe or forced poses with newborn babies.

What is required of the parents for a newborn session?

You do not need to bring anything with the exception of settling aids, a dummy if he/she has one and a spare set of clothing for you.

I do not require that you withhold any feeding from your baby for any time prior to our session or keep them awake prior to the session.

I like to schedule around when you noticed any clues to when your baby requires a feed. Most newborns do not have a set routine at this stage so we can still work around them.

Do you travel to clients homes for newborn sessions?

Yes, however I do like to talk to clients personally regarding in-home sessions to discuss particulars and lighting etc

How long after the session can I expect to see my images?

Your images from your session will be presented on a custom USB along with any prints included in the packages, normally around 1 week after the session.

As part of Kylie James Photography point of difference, light refreshments are provided whilst viewing and choosing additional print images or products that you love!

Do you arrange printing of the images?

Yes, I use a colour calibrated digital workflow and liaise closely with a professional printer to ensure your prints are of the finest quality.

Not only can a poor printing job reflect badly on my work, but it also diminishes the impact of your professional photographs which you have paid good money for.

Print prices and other products are displayed when you collect the images.

Maternity FAQ’s

When is the best time for a maternity session?

Maternity Photography is best done between your 7th & 8th month of pregnancy or around 36 weeks. If you are carrying multiples around 6-7months is a good time. Although this may feel a little bit late, this is the ideal time to capture the perfect bump!

What do I wear to a maternity session?

Wardrobe is the key to a photo session. I love dresses in neutral earthy tones for maternity sessions as they really compliment the shape of your baby bump, and add a light, airy and flowing feel to the images. We will work closely together in helping you feel confident and comfortable.

I have a professional make-up artist that I can highly recommend and use on a regular basis, who will make you look and feel amazing! I can provide you with all the details so you can arrange an appointment prior to the session.

Can other members of my family attend the session?

Definitely! Husbands, children and pets are welcome and encouraged to participate in the maternity session also. It’s a special time for everyone!

Where do maternity sessions take place?

Maternity sessions take place either in my natural light studio or on location around Newcastle and the surrounds. I have some great location suggestions, just depends on what works best for you!

How long after the session can I expect to see my images?

Your images from your session will be presented on a custom USB along with any prints included in the packages, normally around 1 week after.

As part of Kylie James Photography point of difference, light refreshments are provided whilst viewing and choosing additional print images or products that you love!

Do you arrange printing of the images?

Yes, I use a colour calibrated digital workflow and liaise closely with a professional printer to ensure your prints are of the finest quality.

Not only can a poor printing job reflect badly on my work, but it also diminishes the impact of your professional photographs which you have paid good money for.

Print prices and other products are displayed when you collect the images.

Baby and Family FAQ’s

Where do baby & family Photography Sessions take place?

Baby and Family photography can be done in my natural light studio, or on location around Newcastle and the surrounds. Depending on the location you would like for your backdrop, we will work together in determining what works best for you. I have lots of location suggestions, but feel free to suggest a particular spot you have in mind!

When is the best time to photograph my baby?


The next best time to photograph babies if you missed the newborn session is 3 months old! Otherwise I recommend waiting to photography your baby between 6-8 months of age as this is when babies hit some really exciting milestones such as sitting up, which gives us more flexibility and posing options for you session.

What time will sessions take place?

Normally Baby Photography is scheduled around nap time so I am very flexible to your routine. Our goal is to get your baby when they are at their happiest and not approaching sleep time!

For Family Photography we don’t photograph around noon because the sun is too harsh at this time for photography. This means that afternoon sessions typically begin 2 hours before sunset – anywhere between 4pm and 6pm, depending on the time of year. Morning sessions start between 7am and 8am.

Are props included in the session?

Yes, all props are included in the session. If their are any particular props you like or have seen on my site just let me know. You are also welcome to bring any keepsakes or heirlooms along to the session.

I work very closely with my clients regarding wardrobe selection and offer any guidance if needed.

How long after the session can I expect to see my images?

Your images from your session will be presented on a custom USB along with any prints included in the packages, normally around 1 week after.

As part of Kylie James Photography point of difference, light refreshments are provided whilst viewing and choosing additional print images or products that you love!

Do you arrange printing of the images?

Yes, I use a colour calibrated digital workflow and liaise closely with a professional printer to ensure your prints are of the finest quality.

Not only can a poor printing job reflect badly on my work, but it also diminishes the impact of your professional photographs which you have paid good money for.

Print prices and other products are displayed when you collect the images.

Styling FAQ’s

Family Dress and Styling, what to wear?

Styling makes the world of difference for photography. I like to keep colours to earthy and neutral tones to achieve the light and airy look to my images.

Everyone should feel comfortable, but to help achieve a better quality group photograph, it is necessary to coordinate colours (tops and bottoms) and fabric styles across your family group.Solid tones without flashy prints or graphics work best. I will work very closely with clients to help achieve the perfect look.

If you wear make-up, try wearing it a little darker than normal as it tends to highlight your face (lipstick or lip gloss is also great!).

For newborn studio shoots where other members will be involved, the goal is to limit distracting elements in the photograph so try to avoid wearing bulky jewellery, rings, watches and plunging necklines.

Add Professional make-up to any Photography Session for that extra touch. Our Make-up artist are very talented and will make you look and feel  amazing!

Ask upon booking for pricing and details.