Newborn and Baby Photography FAQs
Helpful answers for families considering a session with Rene Goodwin Photography.
If you are planning newborn photography or baby photography in Dunedin, this FAQ page is here to make the process simple and reassuring. Rene captures timeless memories of you and your baby, focusing on real moments and those beautiful in-betweens that preserve this special season of life.
Professional, caring, and beautifully prepared
"Working with Rene Goodwin Photography was such a calm and reassuring experience. Rene made every step easy to understand, answered our questions promptly, and created images that felt natural, polished, and deeply meaningful. The whole process felt thoughtful from start to finish, and we would happily recommend Rene to any family looking for newborn photography or baby photography in Dunedin."
— Jessica & Mark R.
What You Can Expect From Your Session:
- Gentle guidance from booking through delivery
- Newborn photography and baby photography tailored to your family
- Thoughtful planning to help you feel relaxed and prepared
- Online image gallery with high-resolution digital files
- Beautiful keepsakes designed to preserve this milestone
- Warm, comfortable and clean studio
- Rompers & Wraps provided
A polished, professional experience created to hold onto this fleeting time.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I book?
Send your details through the form on the contact page, and Rene will respond within 48 hours to confirm availability and next steps.
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I don't know what session to choose.
The main question for you is: Do you prefer those sleepy newborn images or do you prefer baby being a bit older and more awake. If you prefer capturing baby in those first two weeks (my recommendation) while still very sleepy, I can talk you through the different options on the day of your session and explain what each includes.
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Are parent and sibling images included?
You can choose a session type where we only focus on baby or a session where parents/siblings are included. These two options have two price brackets as seen on my pricing page.
My sessions are mostly family focused to tell your story. Capturing all the in-between moments are so precious.
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What if my baby is unsettled or don't want to sleep?
Babies cry and get unsettled. THIS IS NORMAL!
Unfortunately due to reasons we don't always know, babies can be very unsettled in those first few weeks and months. They are only tiny humans after all. Be assured that I've been photographing babies for 13 years and I will very quickly be able to tell you that we either need to reschedule or just take a bit of extra time to settle baby. If I feel that I can't provide you with a beautiful gallery if baby is unsettled, I will most certainly not charge you for the session.
Even through I do have a few tricks up my sleeve to settle baby, sometimes it's just not possible.
My sessions are baby led. This means we will change your session to suit baby to be comfortable at all times.
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What about my toddler?
Oh, the million dollar question! Yes, your session will be a bit more chaotic because we try to incorporate siblings as much as possible during your session. Rest assured MOST toddlers don't want to comply! Yes, you heard me.... MOST of them. Trust me, I've seen it all. Don't work them up too much before the session. We can gently ease them in to everything. They have lots of emotions when a new baby arrives. And please don't do the "Cheeeeesssseeee" thing. hahahaha
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What about your studio?
My in-home studio is warm, clean and comfortable. I have a air purifier in the studio to assure that clean air is circulating through the studio at all times.
I provide everything you need including backdrops, rompers, headbands & wraps.
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What if my baby poops or wee everywhere?
Very normal! No problem. I wash everything I use afterwards anyway!
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When do I book and how does it word?
I recommend booking as early as possible since I only take limited bookings per month. We would pencil you in around day 8/9 after your due date and if baby arrives early/late, we reschedule a suitable date/time for your session then. I allow for this flexibility in my calendar, so no problem at all.
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What if baby is born already? Did I miss out?
No problem. Send me a message on my contact page and I will try my absolute best to accomodate you.
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What if I don't live in Dunedin?
I have many clients that come from Balclutha, Mosgiel, Palmerston, Oamaru, Invercargill and the wider Otago region. You'll have a bit or a drive, so baby will likely sleep in the car and wake up once you arrive. They might just need a feed and a bit of extra time to settle back to sleep, so please allow extra time in your planning.
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When do I pay and do you offer payment plans?
No payment is needed upfront. You will receive your invoice on the day of your session.
Yes, you are welcome to pay off your session as you please. You're gallery will only be sent once final payment is received.
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Is my baby safe?
I am a professional in my field with extensive training and experience. Safety is always FIRST PRIORITY in my studio. I will NEVER place your baby in an uncomfortable position. My focus is creating soft and timeless imagery that are baby-led. Sometimes babies don't like being on their back because they have a bit or reflux, then we will just move them to be more comfortable. Sometimes babies don't like being on their tummy because the umbilical cord hasn't come off yet, then we will just move them to be more comfortable.