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4201 Hamilton Ave
San Jose, CA, 95130
United States

Bay Area Newborn, Maternity, Family Photographer, serving San Jose, Palo Alto, Mountain View, Menlo Park, Santa Clara

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Bay Area Newborn Photographer | What to Expect & How to Prepare

Ozlem Bal Herdem

Bay Area Newborn Photographer | Newborn Photography | Menlo Park | Palo Alto

Welcome to the world of newborn photography! As a Bay Area newborn photographer serving families in Palo Alto, San Jose, Sunnyvale, and beyond, I’ve had the honor of capturing hundreds of beautiful newborn sessions. Whether you’re specifically looking for newborn photography near me or just starting to explore your options, this guide will help you feel informed and ready for your baby’s first photo shoot.

How to Prepare for Your Newborn Photo Shoot

1. Choose an Experienced Bay Area Newborn Photographer
It’s essential to work with a photographer who specializes in newborn sessions and understands the importance of safety, comfort, and style. Review their portfolio, ask about their experience, and be sure their editing and posing style aligns with your vision.

2. Book Early
Newborns photograph best between 7 and 14 days old, when they’re still very sleepy and naturally curled up. It’s best to reserve your session before your due date to ensure availability with your preferred photographer.

3. Plan Your Outfits
Stick to soft, neutral colors that won’t distract from your baby’s features. Avoid bold prints, bright colors, or logos. Coordinated outfits for parents and siblings help create timeless, cohesive images.

4. Prepare the Space (If In-Home)
If your session will take place at home, choose a room with good natural light and clear away visual distractions. Open the blinds, straighten up surfaces, and make sure your baby’s essentials are nearby.

5. Pack the Essentials
Bring or prepare diapers, wipes, pacifiers, swaddles, burp cloths, and a change of clothes. Your photographer will likely provide wraps and props, but feel free to bring any special items you’d like to include.

6. Be Flexible
Babies are unpredictable — and that’s okay. Fussiness, breaks for feeding, and diaper changes are expected. Trust your photographer and enjoy the process.

Making Your Baby Comfortable During the Session

  • Keep the Room Warm: A warm space helps babies feel safe and sleepy, especially if they’ll be swaddled or unclothed.

  • Use White Noise: Gentle white noise can soothe a fussy baby and help them settle more easily.

  • Feed Before the Session: A full belly leads to a relaxed baby. Plan to feed just before the session begins.

  • Swaddling Helps: Your photographer will likely swaddle the baby for comfort and positioning — this encourages sleep and calm.

  • Take Breaks as Needed: Don’t worry if your baby needs extra time — a calm environment leads to better images.

Tips for Creating Meaningful Newborn Photos

  • Add Personal Touches: Incorporate heirlooms, blankets, or sentimental items to make the session feel unique.

  • Capture Candid Moments: The yawn, the snuggle, the little stretch — these unscripted moments often become favorites.

  • Get In the Frame: Parents sometimes hesitate, but you’ll treasure those early photos holding your newborn. Even simple, natural portraits are powerful.

  • Consider Lifestyle Sessions: In-home lifestyle newborn sessions offer a relaxed, story-driven alternative to posed studio shoots.

  • Display Your Photos: Don’t let your gallery live on a hard drive — print your favorites and fill your home with these early memories.

Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?

I serve families across the Bay Area, including Palo Alto, San Jose, Los Gatos, Cupertino, and Sunnyvale, offering both studio and in-home newborn photography. My approach is warm, safe, and baby-led — focused on capturing the tenderness and beauty of your baby’s earliest days.

View my newborn portfolio or Contact me to reserve your session.


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Bay Area Newborn Photographer | Beautiful Newborn Baby Photos in Palo Alto, CA

Ozlem Bal Herdem

Bay Area Newborn Photographer | Beautiful Newborn Baby Photos in Palo Alto, CA

As a Bay Area newborn photographer, I have a passion for capturing the beauty and innocence of newborn babies. There's something truly special about the early days of a baby's life, and I feel honored to be able to preserve these fleeting moments for families. In this blog post, I'll share tips for a successful newborn photo shoot, explain the benefits of hiring a professional newborn photographer, and provide information about newborn photography near me in the Bay Area.

Newborn photography is a type of photography that requires a gentle touch, patience, and skill. Timing is important when it comes to capturing the perfect shots of a newborn baby. That's why it's important to book your newborn photo shoot as soon as possible after your baby's birth. Newborns are most photogenic during the first two weeks of life, when they are sleepy, pliable, and still have that adorable newborn look.

When planning a newborn photo shoot, it's important to choose a photographer who specializes in newborn photography. A professional newborn photographer will have the experience and equipment necessary to create high-quality, timeless images that you'll cherish for years to come. They will also know how to handle and pose your baby safely and comfortably, so that you can relax and enjoy the experience.

As a Bay Area newborn photographer, I have a soft spot for newborns and a passion for capturing their unique personalities and special moments. I believe that every newborn is one-of-a-kind, and that each photo shoot should be customized to fit their individual needs and style. That's why I take the time to understand each family's vision and create images that perfectly capture their love and connection.

If you're looking for "newborn photography near me" in the Bay Area, I would be honored to be your newborn photographer. I have a comfortable, well-equipped studio that is designed for newborn photography, and I use only the safest and most gentle techniques to pose and photograph your baby. Whether you're looking for classic, posed family portraits or candid, natural shots, I have the experience and creativity to bring your vision to life.

In addition to capturing beautiful images of your baby, a newborn photo shoot can also be a wonderful opportunity for the entire family. Newborn family photos are a beautiful way to document the love and connection between you, your partner, and your baby. I encourage you to include family members in your photo shoot, so that you can all be a part of the memories you're creating.

As a Bay Area newborn photographer, I have the experience and skills necessary to create high-quality, timeless images that you'll cherish for years to come. If you're looking for a newborn photography in the Bay Area, I would be honored to be your newborn photographer. Contact me today to book your newborn photo shoot and start creating memories that will last a lifetime.


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Bay Area Family Photographer | Palo Alto, CA Photo Shoot | Family Photos

Ozlem Bal Herdem

Bay Area Family Photographer | Palo Alto, CA Photo Shoot | Family Photos

As a professional Palo Alto, CA family photographer, I understand the importance of capturing memories that will last a lifetime. A family photoshoot is a time to come together, have fun and freeze a moment in time that can be cherished for years to come. I recently had the privilege of capturing a beautiful family session in Stanford Cactus Garden and wanted to share some tips and insights about making the most of your family photoshoot experience.

The cactus garden provided a unique and visually stunning backdrop for the photoshoot. The vibrant colors and textures of the cacti created a playful and organic feel to the photos, while also serving as a backdrop that pops and makes the subjects of the photos stand out. The garden also provided ample opportunities for interesting compositions and perspectives, making for visually dynamic and engaging family photos.

One key aspect of a successful family photoshoot is to be well-prepared. This means making sure everyone is dressed in coordinated and comfortable clothing that complements the location and overall vibe of the photoshoot. It's also important to discuss the mood and feeling you want to convey in the photos so everyone can arrive with a shared understanding of the goals for the session.

Another key to a successful family photoshoot is to have fun. This might seem like a no-brainer, but it can be easy to get caught up in the pressure of creating "perfect" family photos. However, by keeping the mood light and playful, you'll get more genuine and spontaneous expressions and moments that truly capture the essence of your family.

During the family photoshoot, I made sure to take advantage of the unique and quirky environment by encouraging the family to interact with their surroundings. We explored different parts of the garden, taking breaks for snack time and even playing games, which resulted in some of the most candid and playful shots of the day.

Additionally, it's important to consider the lighting when planning your family photoshoot. The cactus garden offered a mix of sun and shade, which provided opportunities for both bright and airy outdoor portraits as well as more moody and intimate indoor-like shots. The key is to make the most of the available light and choose the right moments to take advantage of the best conditions.

Finally, don't be afraid to get creative with your family photos. Try incorporating props, using interesting perspectives, or playing with shadows and reflections. This not only adds visual interest to the photos but also helps to tell the story of your family and your unique personalities.

In conclusion, a family photoshoot is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones. By being well-prepared, having fun, making the most of your surroundings and being creative, you'll be sure to capture stunning and meaningful family photos that you'll cherish for years to come. If you're in the Bay Area and looking for a family photographer, I would be honored to capture these special memories for you.


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Bay Area Newborn Photography | Bay Area Maternity, Newborn, Family Photography

Ozlem Bal Herdem

Bay Area Newborn Photographer | San Mateo Newborn Photography

As a professional newborn photographer in the Bay Area, I am passionate about capturing those first precious moments of life. Newborn photography is a special art that requires patience, skill, and a gentle touch. Capturing the innocence and beauty of a newborn baby is a once in a lifetime experience, and it is my privilege to be a part of that journey.

A newborn photoshoot is one of the most important and meaningful events in a family's life. The photoshoot is a time to bond with your new baby, create memories, and document the beginning of your family's story. The photos taken during this time are timeless treasures that will be treasured for years to come.

A newborn photoshoot should be scheduled within the first two weeks of the baby's life. This is when the baby is at their sleepiest and most flexible, making it the perfect time for capturing those adorable curled up poses. During this time, the baby's skin is still soft, their eyes are still closed, and their little faces are still chubby and round. All of these factors make for the perfect newborn photo.

As a Bay Area newborn photographer, I understand that each baby and family is unique. That's why I offer customized newborn photoshoots to fit your individual needs and preferences. Whether you want classic, posed shots or more natural, lifestyle images, I will work with you to create a photoshoot that reflects your family's personality and style.

In addition to individual baby photoshoots, I also offer newborn family photos. These photoshoots are a wonderful way to document the love and bond between parents and their new baby. Whether it's a photo of the entire family snuggled up on the couch or a solo shot of Mom and Dad with their new addition, these photos are sure to be cherished for years to come.

Before your newborn photoshoot, I will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for the session. This will include information on what to wear, how to soothe and settle your baby, and how to prepare your home for the photoshoot. During the photoshoot, I will take the time to get to know your baby and their unique personality. This will help me to capture those special moments and expressions that make each newborn photo truly one of a kind.

When it comes to newborn photography, safety is of the utmost importance. As a Bay Area newborn photographer, I have extensive experience handling and posing newborns. I use only safe and tested posing techniques, and all props and accessories are thoroughly cleaned before each use.

After your newborn photoshoot, I will carefully edit and retouch each photo to ensure that they are as beautiful and perfect as possible. You will receive a digital gallery of high-resolution images that you can download, share, and print. These photos will be a treasured keepsake for generations to come.

In conclusion, as a professional newborn photographer, I am honored to be a part of the joyous and special time of a family's life. A newborn family photoshoot is a unique opportunity to document the beginning of your family's story, and I am committed to capturing those memories in a beautiful, timeless, and creative way. If you are looking for a Bay Area newborn photographer, I would be honored to be a part of your journey.

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Santa Clara Newborn Photographer | Newborn Photographer in Bay Area

Ozlem Bal Herdem

Santa Clara Newborn Photographer | Newborn Photographer in Bay Area

As a professional newborn photographer in the Bay Area, I have the privilege of capturing some of the most precious moments in a family's life. Newborn photography is an art form that requires patience, creativity, and technical skill, and I feel honored to be a part of this special time for families.

When new parents are searching for "newborn photography near me", they are looking for someone who can capture their little one's innocence and beauty in a way that they will treasure forever. They want someone who can create images that they will look back on with love and nostalgia, and who will help them remember this fleeting moment in their lives. That's where I come in!

I've been a Bay Area newborn photographer for 10 years now, and I've learned that every baby is unique and special. Every baby has their own personality and their own quirks, and it's my job to bring that out in my photos. I take great care to create a comfortable and safe environment for each and every baby, and I work hard to make sure that each family feels relaxed and at ease during their newborn photo shoot.

One of my favorite parts of being a newborn photographer is creating newborn family photos. I love capturing the bond between a new baby and their parents, and the love that is so clearly visible in their eyes. These images are some of the most precious that families will have, and I take great care to make sure that each one is perfect.

In preparation for a newborn photo shoot, I work closely with each family to understand their vision for the images. I want to know what colors and styles they like, and what types of images are important to them.

On the day of the shoot, I have everything I need to create the perfect backdrop, lighting, and props in my studio for each shot. I like to create a natural and comfortable environment, so the baby feels at ease and the images look effortless and authentic.

During the baby photoshoot, I take a variety of images, from close-up portraits to full-body shots. I also like to capture some candid moments, so the family can see their baby in a more natural state. I believe that these images are just as important as the posed shots, and they often become some of the family's favorites.

After the photoshoot, I carefully select the best images and begin the process of editing and retouching. I use the latest software and techniques to enhance the images, but I always make sure that the final product looks natural and true to life. I want the family to see their baby just as they are, with all of their little imperfections and quirks.

Finally, I present the final images to the family, either as a digital file or as a beautiful print. I always encourage families to choose a mix of both, so they can enjoy their images on their computers, phones, and walls.

In conclusion, being a newborn photographer in the Bay Area is a truly special and rewarding experience. I love capturing these fleeting moments for families and helping them create memories that they will treasure forever. If you're searching for "newborn photography near me" or "newborn photography Bay Area", I would be honored to capture your baby's first days and create images that you will cherish for a lifetime.


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