When Is the Best Time to Book Maternity Photos in Ontario?
Maternity photography is best captured when you still feel comfortable in your body, but your bump is beautifully visible.
I am located in Durham Region, Ontario. My maternity sessions are booked between 28–34 weeks, but they can be done whenever you have energy and are feeling good!
WHY TIMING MATTERS
During this window:
• your bump is well defined
• you still have mobility and comfort
• energy levels are usually more stable
BEST TIME OF YEAR FOR MATERNITY PHOTOS IN DURHAM REGION
Every season offers something unique:
• Spring: soft, fresh outdoor/indoor tones
• Summer: golden light and warmth
• Fall: rich, golden hour is popular with clients
• Winter: studio-focused timeless imagery
STUDIO VS OUTDOOR
Studio maternity sessions offer:
• privacy
• controlled lighting
• timeless, modern, clean imagery
Outdoor sessions offer:
• natural scenery
• seasonal variation
• only thing to consider is we are 100% weather permitting. Rain dates are discussed at time of booking
FAQ
Can I do maternity photos after 34 weeks?
Of course, but your comfort level may vary, so earlier is often recommended if possible.
Can partners and children join?
Absolutely —many families include partners and siblings.
Here’s a quick post to help you plan: The Durham Region Pregnancy Guide
If you are searching for maternity photography in Oshawa or Durham Region, booking early ensures you secure the ideal timing. I can’t wait to work with you!
What to Expect During a Newborn Photography Session in Durham Region
If you have never had a newborn session before, it is completely normal to feel unsure about what will happen.
Most parents in Durham Region arrive feeling exactly the same way: tired, emotional, and unsure if their baby will “cooperate.”
The truth is—they don’t need to.
WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENS
A newborn photography session is built around your baby’s needs.
There is no strict schedule.
Instead, the session flows like this:
• settling and feeding time
• watching your baby’s cue’s, and gentle posing
• natural breaks whenever needed
• capturing connection moments between parents and baby
Everything is slow and flexible.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Most newborn sessions last between 1-1.4 hrs
This allows enough time for:
• feeding
• soothing
• outfit changes (if needed)
• natural breaks
There is no rushing, however in the same breath, baby led sessions are done so that I capture all that is needed without stress for baby or you.
DO I NEED TO PREPARE MY BABY?
Very little preparation is needed.
The most helpful things are:
• feeding baby before arriving or upon arrival
• bringing extra milk/formula if needed
• feel free to bring a family heirloom or outfit
Everything else is handled in-studio.
You may also like this post for more information: Planning a Newborn Photoshoot? Here’s what you need to know.
FAQ
What if my baby cries during the session?
This is completely normal. Sessions are designed around soothing and comfort.
Can parents be in the photos?
Yes—of course, you are more than welcome. In fact, parent images are a core part of the session.
Do you provide props?
I focus is on natural connection, clean, textures and minimal linens. This allows the focus to be on your baby for a timeless memory.
If you are looking for a newborn photographer in Durham Region, and ready to book your session will be calm, guided, and fully supported from start to finish.
A Calm Newborn Session in Oshawa: What the First Days Really Feel Like
The first days with your newborn are unlike anything else in life. No seriously! No matter how much reading/research you do, how many conversations you have with your friends/family etc.. Nothing prepares you for what those first days truly feel like.
They are soft, emotional, exhausting, chaotic, humbling and beautiful all at once—and they pass far faster than most parents expect.
Newborn photography in Oshawa and Durham Region is not just about images. It is about preserving what this season felt like before it begins to fade.
WHAT A NEWBORN SESSION ACTUALLY FEELS LIKE
A newborn session is intentionally slower paced and fully guided.
There is no pressure for your baby to behave a certain way or for you to know what to do.
Everything unfolds naturally:
• feeding breaks are expected
• soothing happens as needed
• parents are never rushed
• connection is the focus, not perfection
The goal is not to “pose” your baby—but to preserve this early connection between you, baby and your new family.
So if you are one that say that I am so awkward in front of the camera….trust in me. I will prove to you this is not true.
WHY PARENTS IN OSHAWA CHOOSE STUDIO NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY
Families in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, and Durham Region often choose studio newborn photography because it offers:
• a calm, controlled environment
• soft, consistent lighting
• a warm space for baby comfort
• zero pressure on parents
• a Professional they trust and one who resonates with them
It allows you to simply arrive and be present.
WHAT GETS CAPTURED MOST
The most meaningful images are often not the posed ones.
They are:
• tiny hands wrapped around yours
• in between moments
• sleepy stretches and little details
• the way you look at your baby when no one is watching
• documenting your story and new little love
These are the moments that fade the fastest—and matter the most. If you need more info on why check out this post: Why You’ll Never Regret Photographing Your Baby’s First Year
FAQ
When should I book newborn photography in Oshawa?
Most families book during pregnancy, ideally in the second or third trimester to secure a session window after birth.
How old should my baby be for newborn photos?
The ideal window is typically within the first 7–14 days, but beautiful sessions can happen at older ages as well.
Do I need to bring anything to the studio?
Only the essentials—baby, diaper bag, and yourself. Everything else is prepared for you.
If you are expecting and looking for newborn photography in Oshawa or Durham Region, I would love to gently guide you through this season.
Cake Smash Photography in Durham Region: What Parents Should Know Before Booking
I know..how are we at one year old already right?
Your baby’s first birthday is such a special milestone — and a cake smash session is a beautiful way to celebrate it.
If you’re considering booking one, here’s everything you need to know to make the experience smooth, fun, and stress-free for your cake smash photography in Oshawa.
1. The Best Age for a Cake Smash Session
Cake smash sessions are typically scheduled around: 11–12 months
This allows time for:
• editing, turn around time
• ordering images
• celebrating before or at their first birthday
2. Outfit Ideas for Your Session
Simple is always best.
• soft neutrals
• textured fabrics
• minimal patterns
You can choose from the studio wardrobe, bring your own or use a combo of both:
• a classic outfit
• a romper
• or something soft and timeless
3. The Cake
To ensure both quality and safety, I partner with Nest Specialty Desserts in Bowmanville. And should you wish to add fresh flowers we partner with Lisa from Aspen Florist who offers the most gorgeous blooms and the best quality/customer service.
Once your session is booked:
• you’ll be connected directly with Nadine and or Lisa
• you can choose your flavour /seasonal fruits/blooms
• payment is arranged directly with her
All cakes are made using natural ingredients, designed specifically for your session.
4. A Fully Guided Experience
From setup to styling, everything is prepared in advance.
Your session is designed to feel:
• relaxed
• fun
• completely taken care of
FAQ
What do I need to bring?
As soon as your session is booked—you are connected with my trusted local partner. Ordering/pick up will be arranged with her.
What if my baby doesn’t like the cake?
That’s completely normal — every baby reacts differently, and it’s all part of the experience.
If you are planning first birthday photos in Durham Region, you may also find this guide helpful: Cake Smash Photography: What Parents Should Know Before Booking.
First Year Milestone Photos: What Sessions Should You Book?
Your baby’s first year is filled with incredible changes. And trust me..it' goers by in a BLINK!
From tiny newborn stretches to first smiles, sitting, and standing — each stage is worth remembering. From Newborn to One Year photography, you’ve come to the right place!
Baby milestone photography in Durham Region, allows you to capture these moments in a meaningful, intentional way and be close to home at the same time. I have broken it down for you for a quick guide below:
1. Newborn (0–2+ Weeks)
Your baby’s very first days. Soft, sleepy, and full of newness. Newborn’s change very quickly.
• sleepy curls/yawns
• newborn baby details
• remembering how small they are
2. 6–8 Months (Sitter Stage)
This stage is full of personality.
• sitting independently
• smiling
• engaging with the camera
3. First Birthday (Cake Smash or Portrait)
A celebration of your baby turning one.
Whether you choose a cake smash or a simple portrait session, this milestone marks the end of an incredible first year.
4. Why Milestones Matter
These sessions allow you to:
• document growth
• preserve personality
• create a visual story
5. A Cohesive First Year Story
Many families choose to document multiple stages for a cohesive collection of images. If you are thinking of going this route, reach out at the time of booking for our bundle options.
FAQ
Do I need to book all sessions at once?
Not necessarily — but planning ahead helps ensure availability.
What happens if my baby isn’t sitting up yet?
Totally normal — every baby develops at different rates. The good thing…I meet them right where they are.
Planning an upcoming Baby Milestone Session? Check out this helpful guide:
When to Book a Newborn Photographer: Durham Region Guide.
When Should You Book Maternity and Newborn Photos?
If you’re expecting, you may be wondering how to plan for both maternity and newborn photos. There are SO many options out there and I may sound like a broken record but not everyone is the same. It’s important to do your research and find someone who resonates with you and will make your whole experience one that you will LOVE from start and beyond.
When should you book?
And how far in advance should you start thinking about it? Here’s a simple timeline to guide you.
1. When to Book Your Maternity Session
Maternity sessions are best photographed between: 28–34 weeks
At this stage:
• your bump is beautifully visible
• you’re still comfortable enough to move and around.
• morning sickness and your energy levels “should” be back
2. When to Book Your Newborn Session
Newborn sessions should be booked during your: second trimester
This ensures availability around your due date.
3. Booking Both Together
Many families choose to book both sessions at the same time.
This creates:
• a seamless experience
• consistent style
• a complete story from pregnancy to newborn
4. Why Planning Ahead Matters
Planning early allows you to:
• feel relaxed and not stressed
• secure your preferred dates so you have your photographs back in time for your baby shower or printing needs
• enjoy the experience without last-minute stress
5. A Thoughtful Timeline
A simple approach:
• Second trimester → book both
• 28–34 weeks → maternity session
• baby arrives → confirm newborn session
FAQ
Can I book last minute?
Newborns are always top priority with me however, pending on high season schedules availability will be limited.
How long does a maternity session last?
Typically 45min-1 hour. The flow is seamless for you. We include breaks as needed and have fun along the way.
If you are expecting soon, you may also find this guide helpful:
When to book newborn photographer
Ready to book your maternity session?