Newborn Photography on 35mm Film
It often surprises people when I tell them I’m a newborn photographer who shoots on entirely on film. I never eased in with hybrid shoots first. I went straight to film!
So what makes a newborn session on film different from a digital one?
Candidly captured
Shooting on Film Means Slowing Down
Film photography forces you to be present. You can’t just shoot hundreds of images hoping to get one good one, you only have 36 frames per roll. That means every shot has to matter.
As your newborn photographer, I’ll be intentional about when and why I press the shutter. You might notice I don’t shoot constantly and that’s a good thing. I’m watching for real connection, genuine moments, and expressions that feel worth remembering.
Expect Pauses and Purpose
There might be a moment during a session when everything aligns a beautiful pose, a soft smile, a tender interaction and I’ll take the photo. But I don’t shoot just for the sake of it. I’m not chasing “perfect”; I’m drawn to what feels real.
Sometimes I’ll suggest a position or a spot in your home, and other times I’ll say, “Just do your thing, pretend I’m not here.” I’ll be nearby, quiet, and when I do shoot, you’ll hear it that beautiful unmistakeable click from my film camera.
My Style: Natural, Honest, and Sometimes a Little Blurry & Teary
My photos aren’t perfect. And they’re not meant to be. Sometimes they’re a little soft. But that’s where the beauty is
And yes I often try to capture at least one photo of your baby crying. Because that’s part of the story too. And in 10 or 20 years, that might be one of your favourites. It’s not all sleeping babies and smiles it’s life, exactly as it is.
1st Birthday
What Happens During a Newborn Film Photography Session?
My newborn sessions in Dublin usually last about an hour. I shoot just two rolls of 35mm film so maybe 72–75 photos in total. We’ll move through a few different areas in your home: the bedroom, living room, a balcony or garden if you have one.
I don’t use any artificial lights or studio equipment. It’s just me, my camera, a few lenses, and natural light. That’s it. And it’s all I need to tell your story.
I’ll gently guide you when needed maybe you’re feeding your baby, lying together on the bed, or cuddling on the sofa. These everyday interactions are what make the most meaningful images.
Why Film Photography for Your Newborn?
I grew up with photo albums full of film photos. Some slightly out of focus. Candid. Real. That’s what I want to give you, not hundreds of perfectly edited images, but a small number of real ones that feel like home.
In a world that’s increasingly digital and overly polished, film brings a sense of authenticity. It connects you to your past. And when your child grows up, they won’t just see themselves as a baby they’ll see a home whether they lived their throughout their childhood or not. The couch you fed them on, the bed you slept in, a little bit of a mess potentially in the background. The real life stuff.
Newborn Shoot at home
My Approach to Lifestyle Newborn Photography in Dublin
If you’re looking for a newborn photographer in Dublin who works slowly, intentionally, and with a documentary-style approach. I might be a good fit. I don’t pose babies in baskets or wrap them in intricate setups. I capture life as it is.
Think of me as a family friend who came by with a camera and quietly documented your morning. That’s the kind of memory I want to create for you candid, imperfect, and full of meaning.
