maternity & baby photograph

Whangarei and Northland Professional Baby & Maternity Portrait Photographer since 2006.

Welcome

Hey welcome to my website, thanks for stopping by!

I LOVE everything that is bumps and babies, so much so that I trained as a midwife & neonatal intensive care nurse. So your babies are in very safe hands! I have been a professional maternity and baby photographer in Whangarei for over 18 years.

I am passionate about capturing and preserving memories of each precious stage in life. Whether it's the serenity of a sleeping newborn, the innocent playfulness of a child, or the radiant glow of a mother-to-be, my studio is the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories.

I have a gorgeous private photography studio in Maungatapere, Whangarei. It is the ideal space to create my natural, timeless maternity and baby portraits. The studio is on a lifestyle block so it is a lovely, calm and relaxing space... and almost overflowing with props, wraps, blankets, headbands, gowns and so much more!

Having three children of my own, I know how truly important baby photos are. I adore looking back at the baby photos of my children and seeing how much they have changed over the years. 

Photography is my creative outlet, and I pour my heart and soul into every session. I strive to create a comfortable and relaxed environment, ensuring that both you and your little ones feel at ease throughout the process. 

Capturing the journey from pregnancy, to newborn and baby is just incredible and I'm so lucky to do what I love.

xxx Leigh (pronounced as Lee). 


Gorgeous Sunset Beach Family Photography Session

Last night Mother Nature really turned it on for us for this family's photoshoot. In the morning it was really cloudy and even rained, but slowly the cloud cleared until we had almost complete clear sky. Usually for a beautiful sunset photography session we need some cloud in the sky to reflect and help create a stunning sunset.

I usually start sunset sessions one hour before sunset, however we all arrived a bit early. After a bit of waiting around the kids started to climb the walls (if there were any!) so we decided to just make a start.

We had a lot of fun... starting off slow with snuggles in the sand dunes, then the kids needed to burn some energy. So we had them jumping off dunes, spinning & skipping, running and more hugs. They did so well!

children beach photos sunset

A Dream in Pastels: Whangarei's Sleepy Newborn Photography Session

A Serene Slumber Captured in Light Hues

Just on the outskirts of Whangarei, Northland, New Zealand sits my private photography studio, surrounded by trees, peace and quiet. It is the perfect calm location to capture sleepy baby portraits. Entrusted with creative freedom, I chose a delicate color palette of soft pastels that complemented this 3 week old's skin porcelain perfectly. Remarkably, she slept peacefully throughout the entire session, allowing me to wrap and pose her effortlessly, creating a series of beautiful images.

This session was a perfect example of the magic that can happen in newborn photography, capturing a moment of peaceful slumber that this family will treasure for years to come.

FAQs

  1. What is the best age for a newborn photo session? Ideally, newborn photos should be taken when the baby is under 2 weeks old, but beautiful images can still be captured for older babies.... this baby was 3 weeks old.
  2. How do you choose the color scheme for a session? Parents fill out a section in their contract stating what colours they would like to be used, or don't like. I will do a basic setup, then at the start of the photoshoot parents have the chance to change/ add to the session.
  3. What is the importance of color in newborn photography? Color can set the mood of the photo, complement the baby's skin tone, and align with the family’s preferences (ie what colours will suit your home).
  4. What should parents do to prepare for a newborn session? Parents should try to feed baby right before leaving for the session, to encourage sleep during the shoot. Have the nappy a little looser to prevent skin marks, and dress baby in easy-to-remove clothing.
  5. How long does a newborn session take? A session can take 1-4 hours, depending on the photoshoot they have booked. This allows plenty of time for feeding, comforting, and changing the baby’s poses.
sleeping baby posed photoshoot

Celebrating New Beginnings: Capturing Whangarei's Newest Baby Girl

A Precious Addition to a Beloved Family

As a newborn baby photographer in Whangarei, Northland I've had the joy of capturing the earliest moments of many little ones. Recently, I had a particularly special photoshoot in my private studio with a family welcoming their fourth child – and first girl, after three boys. The session was filled with tender moments, celebrating the arrival of this long-awaited little princess.

The studio setting allowed for a serene and controlled environment, perfect for photographing the delicate features and peacefulness of a sleeping newborn. The joy and pride of the family were palpable, making this photoshoot not just about capturing images, but about preserving a milestone in their lives.

This photoshoot captured the love that a new baby brings to a family. It was an honor to capture these precious moments for a family that I've grown with over the years.

FAQs

  1. What makes newborn photography special? Newborn photography captures the fleeting, precious first days of a baby's life, providing memories that families will cherish forever.
  2. How do you ensure the safety of the newborn during the photoshoot? I prioritize the newborn's safety and comfort, ensuring that the studio is warm and safe, and handling the baby with the utmost care.
  3. What is the best age for a newborn photoshoot? The ideal time is within the first two weeks after birth, when babies are usually more sleepy and pliable for those adorable poses.
  4. How long does a newborn photoshoot typically take? Newborn photoshoots can take 2-4 hours, allowing plenty of time for feeding, comforting, and carefully changing poses.
  5. What should parents bring to a newborn photoshoot? Parents really don't need to bring anything, unless there are any special items they'd like included in the photos, such as an heirloom shawl or teddy. 

Post-Rain Perfection: Family Fun Photoshoot in Whangarei's Outdoors

A Natural Stage Set by the Rain

As a dedicated portrait photographer in Whangarei, I cherish the opportunity to capture families in settings that bring out their unique personalities. A recent photoshoot in a local park, right after a day of rain, provided just such an opportunity. The rain stopped shortly before our session, leaving behind a gorgeous filtered light that lent a soft, enchanting quality to the surroundings.

The children, reveling in the post-rain environment, provided endless moments of fun and candidness, which I captured in my lens. This setting enabled me to create photographs that are not just images, but lifetime memories.

This photoshoot underscores the beauty that can emerge after a rain, transforming a regular park into a magical setting for family memories. It's a celebration of both nature's unpredictability and the enduring spirit of family.

FAQs

  1. What makes post-rain lighting ideal for photography? Post-rain lighting is often soft and even, reducing harsh shadows and creating a flattering glow that enhances photographs.
  2. How do you capture spontaneous moments in a family photoshoot? I focus on creating a relaxed environment and encourage the family to interact naturally, capturing candid moments as they unfold.
  3. What are the advantages of having a private studio and also doing outdoor shoots? A private studio offers controlled lighting and privacy, while outdoor shoots provide natural backdrops and more dynamic, spontaneous photos.
  4. How do you plan for outdoor photoshoots with unpredictable weather in Whangarei? I always have a flexible plan, keep an eye on weather forecasts, and communicate with clients to make the most of the weather conditions.
  5. Can you share a tip for families getting ready for their first outdoor photoshoot? Come with an open mind, embrace the natural setting, and most importantly, be yourselves – the best photos capture your true essence as a family.
family-photography-outdoors-local-park

A Dreamy Newborn Photoshoot in Whangarei

Embracing the Essence of Spring in Newborn Photography

At my studio in Whangarei, I recently had the joy of photographing a newborn girl who was the picture of peace throughout her photoshoot. It was a particularly special shoot as I had the opportunity to use the last of my spring blossoms, adding a delicate, seasonal touch to her portraits. This session also mirrored her sibling's newborn photos, as she was positioned in the same chair where I had photographed her older brother, creating a beautiful symmetry in their early life portraits.

This newborn shoot was a wonderful blend of natural beauty and familial connection, illustrating the gentle and fleeting nature of early childhood.

FAQs

  1. What is unique about your newborn photography style? I focus on creating a natural, serene atmosphere, using elements like seasonal blossoms to enhance the beauty of the shoot.
  2. How do you ensure the baby's comfort during the session? The studio is kept warm and calm, and I take breaks as needed to ensure the baby remains comfortable and content.
  3. Can siblings be included in the photoshoot? Yes, I love capturing the bond between siblings in my newborn sessions.
  4. Can family heirlooms be incorporated into the shoot? Absolutely! Including personal items like a family shawl or teddy adds a meaningful touch to the photos.
  5. How can parents book a session with you? They can contact me through my website or phone to discuss availability and session details.
Sleeping_Newborn_Spring_photos_Whangarei.
Photographer of older babies, Whangarei

SWEET BABY GIRL

Today's gorgeous wee girl was almost 4 weeks old for her newborn photoshoot. She was amazing to photograph... she slept for some photos, awake for other images. She she was full of smiles. This was a lovely Petite Newborn photoshoot.

baby asleep in basket photoshoot
Newborn Twins Photography, Whangarei

DELIGHTFUL BABY TWINS

These two twins have definite personalities already - Little Miss likes to have her say (quite loudly too!) and her brother just sleeps on through. A quick feed and back to sleep again. They both did so well and allowed me to pose them in everything that I had set up.

Family Portrait Photography, Whangarei

GENERATION PHOTO

Imagine having a stunning family photo like this on your wall. We can photograph children with parents, just siblings, or a true generation photo that includes grandparent/ parent/ child. Also easy to include babies in this shot too!

children with parents profile photo
Baby Photography, Whangarei

A PERFECT ANGEL

This morning's baby girl slept like a little angel for her photoshoot this morning. She hasn't been sleeping very well at home, so Mum was thrilled that she was so calm. We kept to a mostly white photoshoot with a little pink. And of course added some blossom....

baby photoshoot in white and pink
Maungatapere Baby Photographer

AWAKE & HAPPY BUBBA

Only 18 days old, this baby girl spent a lot of time wide awake and happy to look around. We managed to rock her to sleep for some sleepytime shots too. She was a little charmer!

baby photoshoot in dads arms
Maungatapere, Whangarei Newborn Photography

TWIN BABY GIRLS 

These twin girls were 3 weeks early and born on different days, which makes them extra unique!

They were a dream to photograph and slept throughout their photography shoot. Luckily they are currently different weights so I can work out who is who... I was a little worried that I might mix them up! But Mum assured me that she can easily tell the difference.

twin baby girls photo
newborn twins in box photo
Whangarei Milestone Photography

CHARMING BABY BOY

Yesterday this gorgeous wee man came back to visit for his 9 month milestone photoshoot. I haven't seen him since his newborn photography session, and he has grown up so much! With no current interest in trying to crawl, or wanting to stand up, I am betting that he is going to be a bottom-slider (I had two out of my three children bottom-slide)

happy baby photo
baby rolls photography
9 month baby photoshoot
baby photographer photos
Northland Maternity Photographer

GORGEOUS GODDESS

Today's maternityphotoshoot was all about keeping it simple. 

Whangarei Studio Maternity Photography

SIMPLE & GLAMOUROUS

I had the pleasure of capturing this gorgeous client's maternity photos. I suggested this pose, which she nailed effortlessly! 

I have always photographed using natural light, but with our constant rainy and cloudy days in Whangarei I have had to look at doing things a little differently. And I am loving using studio lighting. My clients have been surprised at how non-invasive the light power has been, so much better than a standard 'camera flash' as it is a lot faster (therefore less noticeable!). And what I am loving is being able to create exactly what I had imagined in my head :-)

So it is Godox studio lights to the rescue for this image. These lights create the dreamy soft look that I LOVE! Hope you love it too!

maternity photograph in studio
Maternity and Baby Photographers Whangarei

GLOWING MUMMA-TO-BE

This couple rocked their maternity photoshoot. They requested a black & white, simple theme to highlight their pregnancy. They were a lovely fun couple, and I loved how they knew just what style would suit them!

studio maternity photography
Whangarei Baby Photography

SIMPLE WHITEBABY PHOTOSHOOT

Gorgeous baby boy's photoshoot at 10 weeks old. My Whangarei photography studio is the perfect place for newborn photoshoots as it has lovely light and just the right temperature. 

baby photographed in studio
Whangarei Studio Portrait Photographers

15 MONTHS NEW

Today's heartwarming photoshoot featured this charming one-year-old baby, who visited our Whangarei baby photographers' studio. Despite being a little shy at first, she amazed us with her delightful poses, making it a memorable session filled with joy and innocence.

first birth baby photoshoot
Whangarei Baby Cake Smash Photographer

FIRST BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

From capturing her delicate newborn moments to now celebrating her first birthday with a delightful baby cake smash photoshoot, it has been a joyous journey. I had the privilege of preserving these precious memories at my portrait photography studio. As a professional photographer I cherishes these milestones, ensuring every moment is beautifully captured and immortalized. 

baby photography with parents
Whangarei Family Beach Photographer

BEACH PHOTOGRAPHY, IF ONLY THE RAIN WOULD STOP!

Throwback to this lovely beach family photoshoot at Ruakaka, Whangarei, captured on a sunny day..... It certainly feels like forever since I have photographed a family on a Whangarei or Northland beach. Thanks constant rain!

It was a delightful session filled with love, laughter, and genuine connections, resulting in beautiful Whangarei lifestyle portraits that they will cherish forever.

family photoshoot at Ruakaka Baech

A sister's love

Whangarei Newborn Professional Photographers

Capturing the purest sibling love during this Petite Newborn (baby wrapped) session was an absolute delight. These adorable sisters graced our private Whangarei photography studio, allowing me to create timeless portraits that beautifully portray their bond. As a Northland portrait photographer, preserving these precious moments is truly a privilege.

sisters baby photographer




I am proud to be an affiliated Heartfelt photographer