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What to Expect

Preparing for Your Baby or Toddler Session
A seven month old baby girl plays with a wooden xylophone, photograph by Christchurch Baby and Toddler Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Shoot day preparation
  1. Wear comfortable light clothing as, particularly with toddlers, you may be sitting on the floor with us. 

  2. Pack a spare change of clothes just in case there are any little accidents.

  3. Bring a pacifier if you are using one, as they can be very helpful during the session. 

  4. ​If you are formula feeding, bring some extra bottles, just in case.

  5. Bring a snack for yourself and any older children (drinks will be available at the studio).

  6. For older children, bring some favourite toys or books to keep them entertained.

A 17 month old baby girl plays with wooden toys, photograph by Christchurch Baby and Toddler Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Baby studio safety

We believe that no image is worth sacrificing the comfort of your baby or toddler, and we will be led by your baby and will adjust the session according to their needs.

 

Our sessions are baby/toddler-led, and we will adjust our planned shots according to their needs.

During the session, an assistant will be with your child, often keeping a comforting hand on them, ensuring they feel secure and are kept safe throughout.

Learn More about our approach to baby safety.

A 7 month old baby boy smiles  as his mother cuddles him, photograph by Christchurch Baby and Toddler Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
What to wear?

You should wear clothing you feel comfortable in. Neutral colours and simple fabric patterns typically photograph best.

 

For families, coordinating colours tend to work better than completely matching outfits. 

You will have access to my studio wardrobe, and many clients enjoy the opportunity to wear one of our couture gowns.

 

As the session progresses, we will move on to photographing your little one on their own, and you will likely be sitting on the floor with us. As such, you may wish to change into more comfortable clothing after we've finished your images.

 

It is a good idea to have a spare change of clothing in case of any little accidents.

View the Baby + Toddler Photo Gallery.

A sleeping four month old baby girl wearing a traditional Indian dress, photograph by Christchurch Baby and Toddler Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
How long with the session take?

Typically, a baby session will take under an hour - particularly if your baby is awake during the session. However, on the day of the session, please plan on being at my studio for up to 2 hours.

At this age, your baby or toddler will likely be awake for the full session — but if they fall asleep, we will take full advantage of the opportunity to capture these peaceful moments.

This means we can have plenty of time for feeds and cuddles without any time pressure.  

A 4 month old baby laughs as his Sister kisses him, photograph by Christchurch Baby and Toddler Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Sibling studio safety

Please be aware that there is a lot of equipment in the studio and therefore, for their safety, we would prefer that older children are closely monitored and kept in the viewing area when not involved in a photograph.

You may like to read our blog on photographing young children with their baby sibling.

An 11  month old baby girl smiles happily, photograph by Christchurch Baby and Toddler Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Props and clothing for your baby

We have plenty of props and outfits for you to choose from and like to involve you in the styling of the session.

 

We love incorporating personal and cultural pieces, such as your Whānau Korowai, Sari, or a cherished family heirloom, adding layers of meaning to your portraits

View the Baby + Toddler Photo Gallery.

The Studio of Christchurch Baby and Toddler Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
The studio

Your session will take place in our relaxing portrait studio downstairs at unit 4 / 27 Waterman Place in Ferrymead 8023.

 

We have parking at our door, and our main entrance is off the courtyard between the buildings.

 

If you have any difficulties finding us, please don’t hesitate to call on 027 523 3939.

Learn More about the studio.

Newborn baby boy being cuddled by his sister by Christchurch Newborn Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
Engaging children in the session

We recommend talking to your older children about the session in advance. Tell them our names (Kirsten and Lynley)and explain what we will be doing.

It can also be helpful to explain why you would like to have their portrait taken. Many families also find it helpful to have a "treat" planned for after the session.

We try to avoid asking children to 'smile' during the session as we find this often leads to an unnatural expression as they try to comply. We prefer to make them giggle and laugh so please let us know if there are any things your kids find funny and be prepared to get right behind me and make faces to get them looking towards the camera! 

​You may like to read our blog on photographing young children with their baby sibling.

An 10  month old baby girl laughs as she rolls over, photograph by Christchurch Baby and Toddler Photographer Kirsten Naomi Photography
When will your gallery be ready?

A viewing and design appointment will be held at the studio 3-4 weeks after your session.

 

At this appointment, you will be able to view your collection printed and ready for you to take home. You will select your collection, and we will design your framed artwork during this appointment.

 

Artwork and albums will be delivered c.4 weeks later; this may vary slightly for bespoke items; we will advise you of the expected timeline if it differs.

Learn More about Artwork and Albums.

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