If you’ve ever visited my newborn photography studio in Leichhardt, you may have noticed that my collection of newborn props seems to keep growing!
Baskets, little beds, buckets, tiny beds, blankets, fabrics, bonnets, headbands, teddy bears, flowers and all the little details that make a newborn portrait special—there always seems to be something new finding its way into my studio.
So, why do I keep adding new props?
The simple answer is: because I love creating something beautiful and unique for every baby I photograph.
But there is a little more to it than that.
I Love Creating Something Different for Every Baby
One of my favourite parts of being a newborn photographer is designing each session.
Before a baby’s session, I often ask parents about their favourite colours, whether they have a particular theme in mind, and what kind of images they love.
Some families prefer soft neutrals and simple, timeless portraits. Others love beautiful colours, flowers, teddy bears or something a little more playful.
Having a variety of props means I can create different combinations rather than making every session look exactly the same.
Even a simple change of colour, fabric or accessory can completely transform an image.
A Prop Is More Than Just a Prop
When I choose something new for my studio, I’m not simply looking for something that looks cute.
I think about how it will photograph.
Will it work with a tiny newborn baby?
Does it photograph beautifully from different angles?
Can I safely position a baby with it?
Does it work with different colours and textures?
Can I create a timeless image with it?
These are all things I consider before adding something to my collection.
Some props may look beautiful in a shop, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they will work well in a newborn photography session.
I am always thinking about the final photograph.
I Love Colour and Texture
Colour is a big part of my photography style.
I love having a range of colours available so that I can create something soft and delicate, warm and earthy, classic and neutral, or colourful and fun depending on the family.
Sometimes a beautiful fabric becomes the starting point for an entire setup.
Other times, I might start with a tiny basket, a teddy bear or a special accessory and build the rest of the portrait around it.
I enjoy putting these little pieces together until everything feels right.
Some Setups Take More Planning Than You Might Think
One thing parents don’t always see is how much preparation happens before they arrive at the studio.
For a newborn session, I can spend a significant amount of time going through my drawers, shelves and prop collection, choosing fabrics, layers, accessories and colours.
I might pull out several options before deciding which combination will work best.
Sometimes I have an idea in my head, and sometimes the setup evolves as I go.
That’s one of the things I love about newborn photography—it is both photography and creativity.
But the Baby Always Comes First
As much as I love beautiful props, the baby is always the most important part of the photograph.
I never want a prop or a particular image to become more important than the baby’s comfort and safety.
Newborn photography needs patience.
Some babies sleep beautifully through their session. Others need feeding, cuddles, a nappy change or a little extra soothing.
Sometimes a setup I planned doesn’t work because the baby simply isn’t comfortable with it.
And that’s okay.
I don’t force a baby into a particular pose just because I had an idea in mind.
Instead, I work with the baby and adapt the session around them.
The props are there to complement the baby—not the other way around.
I Want My Images to Feel Personal
I don’t want every family to receive exactly the same gallery.
Of course, there are some classic poses and setups that I love and will always come back to, but I also love creating little variations that make each session feel personal.
Maybe it’s a particular colour the parents love.
Maybe it’s flowers for their baby girl.
Maybe it’s a tiny teddy bear because the family loves teddy bears.
Maybe they have a special theme or meaningful little item they want included.
These small details can make a photograph feel even more special to a family.
New Props Keep Me Inspired
After photographing newborns for many years, I still love walking into my studio and seeing something new.
A new basket can give me a new idea.
A new fabric can inspire a different colour combination.
A little accessory can make me think of an entirely new setup.
Photography is a creative journey, and I don’t want to stop learning, experimenting and creating.
Adding new props is one small way I keep that creativity alive.
Creating Beautiful Memories That Last
Trends will come and go, but my goal is always to create photographs that families will love looking at years from now.
Whether the final image is simple and neutral or colourful and creative, I want the focus to remain on the little person at the centre of it all.
Every prop, colour, fabric and accessory has a purpose—to help create a beautiful portrait of a moment that only lasts for such a short time.
Because babies don’t stay tiny for long.
And that is ultimately why I keep adding new props to my studio.
Not because I need more things.
But because I love creating.
I love photographing babies.
And I love giving each family something beautiful and meaningful to keep forever.
Planning Your Newborn Photography Session?
If you’re looking for newborn photography in Sydney, I would love to create something beautiful for your little one.
At Capture The Moment By Ana Photography, my cosy studio in Leichhardt is filled with beautiful newborn props, wraps, outfits and accessories, giving us plenty of options to create a session that suits your style.
Before your session, we can talk about your favourite colours, props and ideas, and I’ll put together setups especially for your baby.
Most importantly, we take our time and follow your baby’s lead throughout the session.
Your baby is the boss—and my job is to create beautiful memories while keeping them comfortable and safe.
If you’re expecting a baby and would like to find out more about my newborn photography sessions, get in touch to start planning your session.
