If you have a new baby on the way, there are plenty of things to organise. Choosing a photographer should feel simple. This guide walks you through how newborn photography is usually priced in Melbourne, why I use a flat rate structure, and what you can expect when you book an in-home newborn session with me.
I photograph newborns in your home in a relaxed, natural way. No props, no pressure. Just honest images of your family as you are.
The main ways photographers price newborn sessions
When you start comparing newborn photographers in Melbourne, you will notice a few common pricing structures. These are general examples from the industry, not how I personally price things:
- Sitting fee plus image purchases: You pay a lower session fee to secure the booking, then later choose and purchase individual images or collections.
- Packages with tiered inclusions: Several set packages at different price points. The higher the package, the more images or products included.
- All-inclusive flat rate: A single clear price that covers both the session and all images.
This last option is the model I use. I keep my pricing flat rate because it is simple for new parents, it avoids hidden costs, and it means you receive your complete gallery without having to make difficult choices later which I also kind of think is an ethically grey area when you are very emotionally invested in your baby.
There is no single “right” structure across the industry. The important thing is choosing an approach that feels transparent and makes sense for your family.
My approach: flat rate with all images included
I offer two newborn options, and both are flat rate. Each includes your in-home session and your full set of high-resolution images.
Classic Newborn Session
A flexible in-home session with all images included (typically 80+), a curated slideshow, a private online gallery, and a print credit to get you started.
Premium Newborn Package
Everything in the Classic, plus a fine art album and a larger print credit so you can have something tangible straight away.
Families like this approach because it is straightforward. You don’t need to make extra decisions after your session, and there are no surprise costs. A booking fee secures your spot, with the balance due before your session. Payment plans are available if that helps during the newborn stage. Travel within Melbourne is included.
You can read more about my newborn photography sessions in Melbourne here
What an in-home newborn session includes
- A calm weekday morning session at your place
- Time for feeds, changes and breaks
- A full gallery of high-resolution images delivered in a private online gallery
- A natural, documentary style (no props or heavy styling)
- Easy print and album options once your gallery is ready
- Super clear privacy preferences: You decide how your images are used. I fully respect families who prefer their photos to stay private.
Because the session takes place in your home, you don’t need to pack bags, manage traffic, or stress about timing. Your baby is in a familiar environment and siblings or pets can join in easily.
Want to know how to prepare? My guide on what to wear for newborn photos is a great place to start.
Why flat rate pricing helps new parents
- Clear and upfront: You know exactly what you’ll pay before your session.
- No upgrades: You receive all your images without having to choose favourites or feel emotionally torn by images you can’t include due to selection constraints.
- Value: A complete gallery that tells a story of your baby’s early days.
- Relaxed experience: We can focus on making photos, not counting poses or worrying about packages.
When to book and how it works
The best time to book is during pregnancy. I pencil you in around your due date, and then we lock in a weekday morning once your baby has arrived. If life feels unpredictable, that’s fine. We adjust to what works for you.
Not sure if you’ve missed the window? Read my post on the best age for newborn photos – it covers babies from the first two weeks through to nine months.
Your gallery is ready within two weeks. You’ll be able to download all your images, share them with family, and order prints or albums directly through the gallery.
Ready to make it easy
If you value clear pricing, in-home convenience and photos that feel like your family, you can book your newborn session here
or explore my newborn photography services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to choose between packages afterwards?
No. All images are included in both newborn options.
How long is the session?
Sessions are flexible but usually around one hour, scheduled on a weekday morning.
Can siblings and pets be included?
Yes. I encourage involving the whole family and keep the session relaxed so siblings can dip in and out.
What if my house isn’t styled or perfectly tidy?
That’s completely fine. I need very little to make it work and have 15 years of experience working in hundreds of different homes and apartments of all sizes. Real homes photograph beautifully.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, flexible plans are available if that makes things easier.
