When should newborn photography be done?
The usual window is 5 to 14 days after birth, when babies are sleepy and settle into curled positions easily. Relaxed, lifestyle-style newborn photos, with the baby awake, in your arms and in the nursery, work well for the first six weeks or so.
How an in-home newborn session works
- Warm room, full tummy. Keep one room warm and feed the baby shortly before the photographer arrives.
- Allow two to three hours. Feeding, changing and settling breaks are part of every newborn session.
- Window light. A bedroom or lounge with a big window is all the set-up needed; only that room needs to be tidy.
- Family photos too. Parents, siblings and the baby's first days at home.
Newborn safety comes first
A newborn session should follow simple rules: the baby is never left unsupported, a parent stays within arm's reach, the room is warm, and no pose is attempted that the baby is not comfortable in. Lifestyle newborn photography, the style used here, relies on natural positions in your arms and in the cot rather than props.
Siblings, parents and family
Older brothers and sisters are best photographed first, while they are fresh; a short, playful set is enough. Parents often say the photos of themselves with the baby are the ones they treasure most, so plan to be in the frame.
Booking before your baby arrives
Book during pregnancy and give your due date. The session is pencilled in for the second week and confirmed once the baby is born. Combine it with a maternity photoshoot to tell the whole story.
Newborn photography prices in Cape Town
Newborn photo shoots in Cape Town range from about R2,500 to R4,500 on current published price lists. They cost more than a standard portrait session because they take longer. See all photoshoot prices in Cape Town.
Is newborn photography worth it?
The newborn weeks pass faster than any other stage, and phone photos rarely include the parents. A session gives you calm, well-lit photos of the baby and of yourselves, at home, without needing to plan anything but a warm room.
Questions people ask
When should newborn photography be done?
Ideally between 5 and 14 days after birth. Relaxed lifestyle newborn photos work up to about six weeks.
How much on average is a newborn photoshoot in Cape Town?
About R2,500 to R4,500 on current published price lists.
Do I need to tidy my whole house?
No. Only the room with the best window light is used, and the camera frames out the rest.
What if the baby arrives early or late?
The date is booked against your due date and moved once the baby is born.