Booking & Timing
Planning your session
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How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking as early as you can, especially for newborn and maternity sessions. Newborns are best booked while you’re still pregnant so we can reserve space around your due date.
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When is the best time for a maternity session?
Most maternity sessions are photographed between 28 and 34 weeks, when your bump is beautifully visible but you’re usually still comfortable enough to enjoy the session.
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When is the best time for newborn photos?
The ideal time is usually within the first 5–14 days after birth, while babies are still very sleepy and naturally curled. That said, if your baby is older, still get in touch — we can often create beautiful images a little later too.
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Can I book online?
Yes — you can book your session online, or contact us first if you’d like help choosing the right session for your family.
Session Types
Choosing the right experience
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Which session should I choose if I missed newborn photos?
A 100 day or toddler/milestone session can be a beautiful alternative if you missed the newborn stage. These sessions still capture your baby beautifully, just at a slightly more awake and expressive stage.
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Can family members be included in the session?
Yes. Depending on the session type, we can include parents, siblings and in some cases extended family members too. If you’re planning something larger, just let us know before booking.
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Do you photograph older children and multi-generational families?
Yes — family sessions are perfect for older children, and we also welcome multi-generational portraits if you’d like to include grandparents or a wider family group.
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What if I’m not sure which session is right for us?
That’s completely fine. Just send us a message with your situation and we’ll help guide you toward the session that makes the most sense for your family.
Newborn Questions
What to expect with a newborn session
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Do you provide wraps, props and styling?
Yes. We provide wraps, layers, blankets, hats and carefully chosen newborn props as part of the studio experience.
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What happens if my baby cries or needs feeding?
That is completely normal. Newborn sessions are built around your baby’s needs, with time for cuddles, settling and feeds. We never rush the process.
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Can siblings be included in newborn photos?
Absolutely. We love including siblings and parents so the final gallery feels meaningful and complete.
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How long does a newborn session take?
Newborn sessions can take longer than other sessions because we work around baby’s needs. We allow enough time so the experience stays calm and comfortable.
Pricing & Viewing
How pricing works at Photo Hive
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How does your pricing work?
Your session starts with the sitting fee. After your shoot, you come back for a viewing appointment where you choose only what you love — whether that’s digital collections, albums, framed prints or wall art.
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Do I have to buy anything after the session?
There is no minimum additional purchase requirement. You’re free to choose what suits your family and budget.
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Can I see full pricing before booking?
Yes. Our pricing page gives a clear overview of session fees, digital collections and product pricing so families can understand the options upfront.
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What payment options do you accept?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, credit and debit card payments and Afterpay.
Promotion Questions
About the $49 offer
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What does the $49 offer include?
The promotion includes your chosen photo shoot, a free 8x12 canvas print and a $100 studio credit toward additional images or products.
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Which session types can I use the promotion for?
The offer can be used for maternity, newborn, family, 100 day, cake smash and toddler/milestone sessions.
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Can I use more than one promotion?
Usually the promotion is limited to one per family and cannot be combined with other offers. Update this wording if your terms differ.
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What happens after I buy the promotion?
Once purchased, we’ll contact you to arrange your session or guide you through the next booking step, depending on how you want the workflow to operate on your site.
Studio & What to Wear
Preparing for your visit
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What should we wear to our session?
We usually recommend soft, timeless tones and coordinated outfits rather than matching exactly. Simpler clothing tends to photograph best and keeps the focus on your connection.
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Do you provide maternity gowns?
Yes — we have gowns and styling pieces available for maternity sessions to help create the elegant Photo Hive look.
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Where is your studio located?
Our studio is in Parnell, Auckland. You can add more precise location details here or direct families to the contact page for directions.
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What if my child doesn’t sit still?
That’s completely normal. We guide sessions in a way that works with children rather than expecting them to behave perfectly the whole time.
Still not sure?
We’re always happy to help
If your question isn’t covered here, just get in touch and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Need help choosing a session?
Tell us your due date, your child’s age, or what kind of portraits you’re hoping for.
Want pricing clarity?
We can explain how the sitting fee, viewing appointment and collections work before you book.
Have a specific concern?
Whether it’s timing, children, outfits or planning, we’re happy to answer questions first.