Welcoming Baby, Celebrating Everyone: Why Sibling Moments Steal the Show I Petra King Photography

The Joy of Welcoming Baby—Together

Bringing home a new baby is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—but it’s not just about the baby. It’s a new chapter for the whole family. As a Durham Region newborn photographer, I’ve seen the most touching, joyful, and genuine moments happen when big brothers and sisters are included in the celebration.

This isn’t just a session to mark your baby’s arrival—it’s about capturing your family growing together.

2: Why Sibling Moments Matter

There’s something sweet about the way a toddler gently kisses their new sibling’s head, toes or the sheer excitement of helping mommy out. Not to mention that proud smile and finally holding the baby. These are moments filled with connection, wonder, and love—and they make for some of the most unforgettable images.

Including siblings in newborn sessions also gives children a sense of importance in the family’s story. It makes them feel seen and valued during this big transition, which can be especially reassuring for young kids when jealousy hits when the attention isn’t all on them.

3: How I Photograph Siblings with Newborns

With a gentle, child-led approach, I ensure the experience is stress-free and sweet for everyone. My calm bright studio is quiet and cozy, designed to help little ones feel safe and welcome. I never rush—I let siblings warm up, play, and interact at their own pace.

Often, the most meaningful moments come when no one’s expecting them—a giggle, a kiss, a tiny hand reaching out. These small interactions often steal the show and become family favourites.

Hot tip…get them to smell their baby’s hair, toes, ask if they toot etc…always gets everyone giggling and relaxed.

4: Preparing Big Siblings for the Session

Before your session, I’ll send a helpful prep guide just for parents with tips on what to bring, how to prepare siblings, and what to expect during our time together. I also recommend bringing a favorite stuffed animal or toy—sometimes, those make their way into photos too, adding even more sentiment.

5: Ready to Document Your Family’s Next Chapter?

If you’re welcoming a new baby and want a session that includes everyone—especially those heartfelt sibling moments—I’d love to create that experience for you. My newborn sessions are designed for growing families across Oshawa, Bowmanville, Clarington, and beyond, with gentle direction and timeless imagery you’ll treasure for years.

💌 Let’s document your growing family—Inquire now about your newborn session.

Magical Santa Mini Sessions In Oshawa: 2024 Highlights From Our Cozy Studio I Petra King Photography

Remember when you were little and what you dreamed Santa would be like? Well imagine a Santa with a gentle, and kind demenor, a real beard and the best belly laugh. Pair this with our calm,. cozy and beautifully decorated studio and this is what every child’s dreams are made of. This makes for some timeless photographs.

Santa Mini Sessions aren’t just photos- they are a magical experience

1. A Look Inside the Magic

The twinkle of lights. The soft rustle of velvet dresses. The moment your child shyly hands their letter to Santa. Our 2024 Santa Mini Sessions were filled with heartwarming moments like these—and we’re so excited to share a few highlights.

2. A Calm and Cozy Setting for Holiday Joy

Held in our bright, natural-light studio in Oshawa, these sessions are designed to take the pressure off parents and preserve a right of passage for you and your family. We offer a soft, clean setup that keeps things simple so your little ones can shine. This allows for the most natural and magical memories.

3. Why Families Keep Coming Back

With gentle guidance, no long waits, and a peaceful atmosphere, even shy kids open up. Many families return year after year to capture the magic of the season—and to add to their cherished holiday photo collection.

4. What Parents Loved in 2024

• Seamless online booking

• Private time with Santa (one on one and no malls)

• Custom sessions since every child is different (so will your memories)

• Easy heartfelt images ready in time for gifting with quick turnaround time

• The BEST experience and BEST Santa around.

5. Be the First to Know for 2025

Our Santa Mini Sessions in Durham Region book up fast—usually by early fall. Join the waitlist now to get first dibs on 2025 dates before they go public.

Santa is coming back to the studio and early birds get the magic and the savings! Stay tuned for our Early Bird Launch, we will be announcing when our Christmas in July is fairly soon and give you the heads up to reserve your spot . These spots go FAST- don’t miss your chance for a calm, cozy and joy filled experience that your kids will love! Zero mall chaos and fake Santa’s here. 100% fun, magic and gorgeous photos.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our cozy Santa studio sessions for 2025!

Romantic Outdoor Wedding: Rustic Summer Ceremony Inspiration.

Sarah & Cody- July 2024

July gave us everything we dream of in an outdoor wedding—lush greenery, golden light, and one sweet, fun and incredibly in-love couple. If you’re dreaming of a rustic, romantic wedding venue in Ontario. In fact, this venue is nestled in nature just minutes north of Hwy 407 in Oshawa, will inspire your heart and your Pinterest board.

We had a beautiful day, overcast and s few sprinkles of rain but nothing slowed us down. The venue was set against a quiet pond and surrounded by towering evergreens, this countryside venue just minutes from downtown Oshawa offered the perfect setting for a peaceful outdoor ceremony and romantic wedding photography in Toronto. Sarah and Cody embraced a minimalist approach, letting nature’s beauty and our creativity shine through.

Sarah wore a stunning dress that had intricately detailed lace gown with a dramatic train, echoing the elegance of the day. Paired with a soft, romantic up-do and a veil that caught the breeze just right—it was a bridal look that stopped time and was magazine worthy. Pin these if you are planning your upcoming wedding. It’s perfect for a summer wedding inspiration board.

It was pretty clear to see just how much their connection was gentle, real, and full of warmth. From quiet whispers to laughter by the water, every moment felt magical being in their presence. Sarah & Cody reminded us why intimate weddings carry so much meaning.

Beyond the beauty, it was such an honour to document this wedding for Sarah and Cody. We captured the soul of what matters most—love, nature, and connection. Naturally and stress free. Being in the moment, focusing on one another is what it’s all about. Your Photographer will be able to create gorgeous images and memories for you by doing it this way (speaking from over 19 yrs of experience). It’s the kind of story we love to tell, and the kind of wedding I’m honoured to photograph as your Durham Region outdoor wedding photographer.

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Planning Your Own Outdoor Wedding in the Durham Region, Toronto, Muskoka area?

If you’re dreaming of a rustic, intimate wedding surrounded by nature—let’s chat. I specialize in capturing weddings like this one, with heart, intention, fun and memories for a lifetime.

INQUIRE HERE

Why Fall Is The Best Time For Maternity Photos In Durham Region I Petra King Photography

Fall is one of the most magical times of year for maternity photos in Durham Region. With crisp air, glowing sunsets, and vibrant foliage, it creates the perfect natural backdrop to celebrate your growing family. Whether you’re expecting your first or your third, a fall maternity session offers a warm, timeless way to document this milestone.

If you’d like to celebrate this milestone outdoors I am all for that too. Golden leaves, soft golden hour lighting, and cooler temperatures offer ideal conditions for expecting moms—comfort, beauty, and fewer bugs than summer! Being a natural light maternity photographer in Durham allows for

Family Maternity session ideas can feel relaxed and meaningful when they are outdoors and everyone is more relaxed. Especially excited older siblings. It’s fun to watch them be a part of something so exciting in your life. There are so many beautiful and simple spots within Durham Region to capture your maternity photos. Winding paths and parks and fields offer quiet space for playful, candid moments with older children.

Depending on the temperature you can play around with what to wear. Layering, soft textures, and neutral tones work great or if warm enough a soft neutral outfit works great too. Most importantly, choose something that will be comfortable and cool and flattering that showcases your beautiful bump!

Ready to book your fall maternity photos in Durham Region? Reach out today to reserve your spot before peak foliage passes. Let’s create something beautiful.

6 Month Milestone Sessions: Why It’s More Important Than You Think: Petra King Photography

The newborn stage may be behind you, but at 6 months, your baby is full of charm. This is one of the most overlooked—but truly special—milestones. If you are on the fence whether to just skip 6 months, here are 4 milestone photo tips why you should.

1. Why 6 Months is Magical

At this age, babies full personality is evident. Newly learned skills like, sitting up unassisted, engaging expressions and playful curiosity. Plus, babies are just so cute at this stage, chubby cheeks and legs, It’s the best age for baby photos. One of my favourite details I include for mom and dad is a profile picture of baby looking at mom/dad. It’s amazing to look back at how beautiful your little one really is.

2. What to Expect at the Studio

Our cozy, temperature-controlled studio is perfect for capturing these early expressions. Sessions are gentle and calm with plenty of time for feeding and snuggles. I make sure that your little one is comfortable with me first before I bring out the camera. Babies are funny at this age, once I pop behind the camera sometimes their expression changes when they can’t see me. But don’t worry…I am always acting silly to get the most genuine photos for you.

3. Styling Tips

Think soft knits, neutral tones, and delicate textures. You’re welcome to use our studio wardrobe or bring sentimental items from home. I love including a stuffy or fav blanket that is your baby’s favourite.

4. Making the Most of the Session

Bring a pacifier, a favourite swaddle, and don’t worry if your baby needs breaks—we work around them, not the clock. I am a parent too and a happy, content and relaxed baby make for the BEST gummy smiles and heartfelt expressions. So there you have it, 6 month baby photography in Durham Region is easy, and affordable too!

Don’t just wait for the big milestones—6 months deserves its moment. Let’s capture this beautiful stage together.

Click the link above to schedule your session or gift one to someone who deserves the gift of memories.

Your Guide to Maternity & Baby Photos in Durham Region: Petra King Photography I Maternity + Baby + Wedding Photographer

As a Motherhood Photographer who has been serving the Toronto, Durham Region and GTA for the last 19 years, I know that when it comes to booking your maternity and baby’s photos can feel overwhelming. Especially in this oversaturated market. That’s why I’ve created this guide to help you feel fully prepared and excited for your session.

1. Why Booking Your Maternity & Baby Session Early Matters:

   It’s always a great idea to reach out early to book your session. Our natural light Maternity & Baby home studio in Durham Region fills quickly- especially for families looking for timeless, heartfelt photos in a peaceful space. Pre-booking also allows us to plan for your session so your vision comes to life. My natural light home studio is a year round favourite for it’s calm, bright atmosphere. I can’t wait to see what ideas you have in store to tell your story.

   
   

2. A Studio Designed With Moms In Mind:

   If you are new here, welcome! My studio is bright, peaceful and designed to take the stress out of your session. We are a full service studio. hair and makeup can be added on to your session, client wardrobe is included for mom and baby and details around the studio are strategically placed for ease and comfort. Our signature all natural studio scent and refreshments are available so that you feel at ease so genuine moments unfold naturally. While serving the Durham Region and Toronto area, our reach spans from the GTA to Brighton

3. Keep It Simple, Soft And Timeless:

If you prefer to wear something from home that is okay too. A few quick tips to help guide your decisions on what to wear for maternity photos. Neutral tones, soft fabrics and coordinating outfits (rather than matching) always photograph beautifully. As mentioned earlier, I do offer a client wardrobe for mom and baby, that is timeless, flattering and comfortable. So you don’t need to shop unless you want to. Whether you’re planning for your maternity session in Durham Region or a baby milestone photo shoot, my client wardrobe ensures you feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera.

4. How to Prepare Yourself For Your Session:

No need for perfection! Book your session, review the pre arrival email I send out and arrive at the studio :) I encourage my clients to relax and simply just be. I guide all my clients with gentle prompts that create a natural, relaxed photo session experience, perfect for capturing connection and joy. Your gallery will be filled with heartfelt and true moments for your family heirloom.

5. After The Session: What’s Next-

You’ll receive a curated online gallery within 7-10 days. Many families who visit my Durham Region baby photo studio choose heirloom fine art prints, wall galleries and linen folios to preserve their memories with beauty and intention. The products look beautiful in your home and become treasures for years to come. You can ask me about these products at any time and samples are available in the studio for you to experience yourself.

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Ready to plan your maternity or baby session in Durham Region? Let’s create calm, beautiful and meaningful images you’ll treasure forever. My natural light home studio is located in N. Oshawa and offers a full-service experience tailored to growing families.

Contact me today to book your maternity or baby milestone session