Choosing a photographer is a personal decision, and it’s important to find someone whose style and approach align with what you’re looking for. While I love what I do, I know my way of capturing families and newborns isn’t for everyone - and that’s okay! Here are five reasons why I might not be the right fit for you.

1: I don't offer a client wardrobe


Some photographers carefully curate a wardrobe for their clients to maintain a cohesive style across their portfolio. They might be known for a certain look and provide outfits to their clients that fit their specific creative vision.


I take a different approach. Your family photos should feel like you—a true reflection of this stage of life, including what your family wears and loves right now. Your family is one of a kind, and I want that to shine through in your images. Years from now, the outfits you chose will bring back memories, helping you remember what this time truly felt like.


I provide a detailed guide on coordinating outfits so everyone looks great together, but my goal is for you to wear clothes you already own and love. If you do decide to buy something new, I hope it’s something you’ll enjoy wearing long after the session, making more memories in the process.

A family sits together on a blanket outdoors during golden hour, laughing and enjoying quality time in nature.
A group walks on a garden path surrounded by lush greenery during golden hour sunset.

2: I don't have a studio


Studio photography offers consistency - predictable lighting, controlled temperatures, and the ability to recreate the same poses and looks over and over. For many photographers, this is a great way to achieve a polished and uniform style.


But for me, photography is more about meaning. Outdoor sessions capture the spirit of families who love adventure, nature, and movement. In-home sessions provide a backdrop filled with personal details—your home, your style, your life in this moment. Years from now, looking back at these images, you’ll notice the little things that are long gone, sparking memories and stories for your kids.


While studios do produce stunning images, they often don’t hold the same personal connection. My goal is to create photos that feel real and uniquely you.

Four children run and play together on green grass under a large tree in a summer park setting.
Parents and newborn baby share tender moment together near white crib in minimalist nursery room.

3: I Don’t Take Many ‘Look at the Camera and Smile’ Shots


If you’re looking for a gallery full of perfectly posed, everyone-smiling-at-the-camera shots, I might not be the right photographer for you. I always capture a few of these at the start of a session (because Grandma does love a classic portrait), but my heart is in lifestyle photography.


Rather than stiff poses, I guide you through prompts and activities to encourage real moments. I want to capture genuine connection - real laughter, snuggles, and interactions that showcase your family’s personality. Years from now, these are the images that will take you back to how life felt, not just how you looked.


A loving family shares joyful moments together in a beautiful wooded park setting during a casual outdoor photoshoot.

4: I don't do in person sales


Some photographers offer in-person sales appointments where clients view their images and select the products they are going to purchase to display in their home with the help of their photographer. This can be a great way to ensure clients invest in high-quality prints and albums.


But can I be honest...? The idea of sitting in a room while you make those decisions feels awkward to me! I don’t want to pressure you into spending more than you’re comfortable with. Instead, when your photos are ready, you’ll receive an online gallery where you can view and select your favourite images at your own pace. I do provide access to professional quality prints and products, along with guidance on how to order, but the final decision is entirely up to you in your own time.


A happy family of three poses together outdoors during golden hour in a natural setting.
A group of people stroll across a wooden bridge under willow trees near a tranquil pond on an autumn afternoon.

5: I don't pose babies - they lead the way.


Those beautifully posed newborn photos - babies curled into perfect little balls, resting on soft nests - are undeniably adorable. Many photographers create incredible, artistic images using these setups.


That’s just not my style. I believe newborns are perfect just as they are, without elaborate props or unnatural poses. My approach is to capture them naturally—stretching, yawning, snuggling in your arms, wrapped in the clothes and blankets you’ve chosen for them. I want your newborn photos to genuinely reflect those early days - the way they moved, the little noises they made, and the weight of them in your arms - so you can hold onto those memories forever.

A tiny yawning newborn baby wearing light blue clothing is being gently held by a caregiver.
Overhead view of a tiny baby in white onesie lying on jeans-clad lap against light background.
Baby laying in white crib looking up with bright alert eyes and wearing light colored clothing.

At the end of the day, photography is very personal, and finding the right photographer for your family is key. If my approach resonates with you, I’d love to chat! But if you’re looking for a more traditional, posed, or studio experience, there are plenty of amazing photographers who specialise in that - and I really believe there’s room for all styles. The most important thing is that you choose someone who aligns with what you want for your family’s memories.


Thanks for reading


Laurinda