Whether you love the dreamy look of styled portraits or the natural feel of cuddles at home, this blog will help you decide.

What is a Studio Newborn Photography Session?

Studio newborn sessions are held in my cosy, private, custom-built studio space right here in Townsville. It is a calm and welcoming environment where everything is thoughtfully prepared for you, from a curated selection of outfits for baby to a client wardrobe for mums, kids, and even a few pieces for dads. With perfect studio lighting, I can capture beautiful images regardless of rain or cloudy weather, so you never have to worry about timing or conditions. There is no need to tidy your home or get it photo-ready, simply arrive and relax.

While there is not a strict time limit to capture your baby’s beauty, if you love those curled-up newborn prop shots, I recommend scheduling your studio session within the first two weeks of life.

Your baby will be photographed using soft wraps, delicate textures, and timeless props, all provided for you. The result is clean, classic, and polished imagery that looks beautiful framed on your walls or carefully preserved in a keepsake album. A little side note, within my studio sessions I offer a mix of prop shots, bean bag poses, and natural, relaxed images, so you get a variety of styles all in one session.

Worried about what to wear? I have you covered. All studio newborn sessions include access to my curated client wardrobe, featuring neutral-toned dresses, soft knits, and relaxed pieces that photograph beautifully. There is something for mums, partners, and little ones alike, so there is no stress about styling, just settle in and enjoy this special time.

Here’s a little glimpse of baby Isla from her studio session:

What is an In-Home Newborn Photography Session?

In-home newborn sessions are perfect for families who want to capture their baby’s early days in the comfort of their own home. These sessions are relaxed and documentary in style, focusing on natural connections and authentic moments. I will come to your home in Townsville and surrounding areas to photograph your baby cuddled on the bed, feeding in the nursery, or snuggled in your arms on the couch.

In-home sessions allow us to tell your family’s unique story, including the tiny details of your home that hold special meaning, from your baby’s room and favourite chair to pets who are part of your family.

The client wardrobe is available for in-home sessions as well. I will bring a selection of beautiful, neutral-toned outfits for baby, along with blankets and my bean bag for natural posed newborn shots. Another benefit of an in-home session is you do not need to leave your house, which can be stressful after giving birth. Since lifestyle sessions are flexible, there is no strict time limit, and we capture your baby’s story at a comfortable pace.

Studio vs In-Home: Which Newborn Session Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Choose a studio session if you:

Love those classic, curled-up newborn prop shots
Want a calm, styled experience where everything is prepared for you
Prefer a clean, timeless look for your photos
Would like full access to my studio props, albums, and artwork

Choose an in-home session if you:

Want relaxed, lifestyle images that feel personal
Feel more comfortable staying in your own space
Would like to include pets or your baby’s nursery in the photos
Prefer a more documentary, story-driven approach

For families with more older siblings, especially toddlers or multiple children, an in-home session can often feel more relaxed. Children are in their familiar environment, can take breaks as needed, and we can follow their natural rhythm. This allows us to capture genuine interactions and tell a fuller, more meaningful story of your growing family.

No matter which session style you choose, your baby’s story deserves to be preserved in a way that feels real, heartfelt, and timeless. At Marlie and Jo. Photography, I offer a gentle and warm approach to newborn photography, focusing on natural moments and beautiful light.

If you are in Townsville and thinking about booking a newborn photographer, I would love to hear from you. Let us create something special, whether in my studio or the comfort of your home.

Contact me today to learn more about newborn photography packages, client wardrobe options, and availability.

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