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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, CA Newborn Photographer | Studio Newborn Session VS In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Session

Ozlem Bal Herdem

Bay Area, CA Newborn Photographer | Studio Newborn Session VS In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Session

As a Bay Area, CA newborn photographer, I understand that choosing the right type of photography for your newborn can be a difficult decision. The two main options are posed photography and in-home lifestyle photography. Both options have their unique benefits, and the decision ultimately depends on the style of photography you prefer and what you want to capture.

Posed Newborn Photography: Posed newborn photography is a more traditional style of photography where the baby is posed in various positions and often uses props and backdrops. This type of photography is done in a studio setting with controlled lighting and temperature to create a specific look and feel. Posed photography is best for parents who want a more formal and stylized look for their newborn photos. These images tend to be highly edited and have a professional appearance.

In-Home Lifestyle Photography: In-home lifestyle photography captures natural and candid moments between the baby and their family in the comfort of their own home. This type of photography is less formal and more relaxed, capturing the baby in their natural environment. In-home lifestyle photography is best for parents who want to capture genuine moments and emotions between their baby and family. The images are often more raw and organic, highlighting the natural beauty of the newborn and their family.

Ultimately, the decision between posed and in-home lifestyle photography comes down to personal preference. As a professional newborn photographer, I can work with you to determine which option is best for you and your family. I can provide samples of both styles, discuss the differences in the shooting process and final product, and help you make an informed decision. No matter which style you choose, I will work to create beautiful and timeless images that you and your family will treasure for years to come.

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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San Jose Family Photographer | Family Photoshoot in Palo Alto

Ozlem Bal Herdem

San Jose Family Photographer | Family Photoshoot in San Jose

As a family photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing special moments and creating memories that last a lifetime. If you're looking for the perfect location for a family photoshoot near San Jose, California, I've got you covered.


If you're looking for a natural setting, there are so many hilly locations in the Bay Area. The preserve is ideal for families who enjoy spending time in nature and want to capture candid moments of their loved ones exploring and enjoying the outdoors.

Palo Alto, CA Newborn Photographer | Bay Area Newborn Photography

Ozlem Bal Herdem

Palo Alto Newborn Photographer | Bay Area Newborn Photography

If you're looking for a newborn photographer near Palo Alto, you're in the right place. Today, I’m sharing highlights from a beautiful in-studio session with a sweet 10-day-old baby girl — and why newborn photography is so meaningful in the earliest days of life.

As a Bay Area newborn photographer, I specialize in creating timeless, simple portraits that focus on the purity and softness of your baby. With families traveling from Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Mountain View, and surrounding areas, I aim to make each session peaceful, safe, and memorable.

The Best Time for Newborn Photos

Newborn sessions are ideally scheduled when your baby is between 7–14 days old. This is when they’re the sleepiest, snuggliest, and easiest to gently pose in those womb-like curled-up positions. Babies change so quickly in those early weeks — it’s a magical time to preserve their tiniest details.

We photograph newborns in a quiet, cozy space with soft natural lighting, gentle wraps, and a calming flow that allows plenty of time for feeding, diaper changes, and soothing. Whether you’re local to Palo Alto or anywhere in the Bay Area, the experience is designed to be stress-free.

Natural, Minimalist Newborn Portraits

My style is soft, neutral, and baby-led. I love working with natural colors, timeless wraps, and simple backgrounds that highlight your baby’s features without overwhelming the scene. I believe less is more — no flashy props or distracting accessories, just warm, heartfelt portraits that feel personal and pure.

Each baby is unique, and I take time to get to know you and understand what matters most to your family. We plan your color preferences and styling ahead of time to create a session that reflects your vision.

Why Parents in Palo Alto Trust My Studio

Working with newborns requires patience, experience, and a deep understanding of how to keep babies calm, safe, and comfortable. I’ve worked with hundreds of families in Palo Alto, San Jose, Los Altos, Menlo Park, and Sunnyvale — and many of them return for milestone and family sessions as their babies grow.

My studio in West San Jose is a short drive from Palo Alto and offers a fully stocked setup, including wraps, headbands, bonnets, and client wardrobe options for moms. You just bring your baby — I’ll take care of the rest.

Ready to Plan Your Newborn Session?

Whether you're in Palo Alto or anywhere in the South Bay, I’d love to help you preserve your baby’s first days in a way that’s peaceful, professional, and truly timeless.

View my newborn portfolio or Contact me to inquire about availability.

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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Menlo Park, CA Family Photographer | Bay Area Family Photography

Ozlem Bal Herdem

Menlo Park, CA Family Photographer | Bay Area Family Photography

As a Bay Area family photographer, I have had the privilege of capturing many beautiful sunset family photoshoots. There is something magical about the warm hues of the setting sun that creates an atmosphere of intimacy and joy during a family photoshoot. In this post, I'll be sharing some tips for having a successful and memorable family sunset photoshoot.

Family photography is about capturing the love, connection, and personalities of the people in the photos. When planning your family photoshoot, it's important to consider the time of day and location to ensure that you get the best possible light. Sunset is the perfect time for a family photoshoot, as the sun is low in the sky and creates a warm, golden light that is soft and flattering.

One of the key elements of a successful family photoshoot is choosing the right location. For a sunset photoshoot, I recommend finding a location with a beautiful view of the sunset. This will not only create a stunning backdrop for your photos, but will also add to the overall atmosphere of the shoot.

When it comes to attire, it's important to choose outfits that complement each other and the location. Neutral colors, such as white, cream, and navy, work well for family portraits and tend to create a cohesive look in photos. Consider incorporating patterns and textures to add some interest, but keep in mind that you want the focus to be on the faces and connection between the people in the photos, rather than the clothes.

Another important aspect of a successful family photoshoot is to have a clear plan for posing and interacting with each other. As a family photographer, I will guide you through the process and help you feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera. Some fun and natural poses include walking together, holding hands, or sitting on a bench and snuggling.

It's also important to remember that family photos are meant to capture the authentic connection and emotions of your family. Don't be afraid to let loose and have fun during the photoshoot. Encourage your children to play, run, or dance and capture those candid moments as well. These moments will become cherished memories in your family photos.

Finally, don't forget to have fun! Family photoshoots can be a great opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones and create memories that will last a lifetime. Encourage everyone to be present and enjoy the moment, and the results will be truly special family portraits.

In conclusion, a sunset family photoshoot is the perfect opportunity to capture the beauty and love of your family. By choosing the right location, attire, and poses, and having a clear plan for interacting with each other, you can ensure that your family photos will be stunning and memorable. As a Bay Area family photographer, I am passionate about capturing the special moments and connections that make families unique and I would be honored to be a part of your family photoshoot.


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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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