Walking into a photography studio for the first time — especially during pregnancy or with a newborn — can feel a little daunting. There are questions that feel too obvious to ask. You are not sure what happens in what order. You do not know what to do with your hands.
At Studio79 in Virar, we have been welcoming first-timers through our doors since 1988. We know exactly how this feels. So here is a complete, honest, step-by-step guide to what actually happens at a maternity or newborn photoshoot at our studio — from the moment you book, all the way to the day your gallery lands in your inbox.
Step 1 — Booking Your Session
The first step is simply reaching out. Most of our clients get in touch via WhatsApp at +91 96078 67979 — it's the fastest way and we typically respond within a few hours on most days. You can also use the enquiry form on our contact page.
Once you reach out, we'll have a quick conversation about session type, preferred dates, and any ideas you have. We'll confirm your slot and send you a preparation guide tailored to your session.
For maternity sessions: Book between weeks 20–24 of pregnancy, schedule the actual shoot for weeks 28–34. For newborn sessions: book during your third trimester around week 32–34 — we'll schedule within the ideal 5–15 day window after your baby arrives.
Step 2 — Before You Arrive
For maternity sessions
- Stay well hydrated in the days before the shoot
- Rest well the night before — fatigue shows in photographs
- Avoid tight waistbands or elastic on the day — they leave marks on skin that take time to fade
- Pack personal outfits crease-free if you're bringing any
- Hair should be done before you arrive — we provide makeup and touch-up services at the studio with our female staff
For newborn sessions
- Keep your baby awake briefly before the session — a slightly tired baby settles more easily into deep sleep poses
- Feed your baby just before you leave home so they arrive with a full stomach
- Pack nappies and milk or formula for at least 3 feeds — sessions run 2 to 4 hours
- Bring a comfort item if your baby has one — a familiar blanket or muslin
- Dress your baby in a loose front-opening outfit for easy undressing without disturbing them
Step 3 — Arriving at Studio79
Our studio is at Office No. 1, Sai Uphar Building, Near New Viva College, Virar West — 401303. Easily accessible from Virar, Vasai, Nalasopara, Mira Road, Bhayandar, Borivali, and Mumbai.
When you arrive, the first thing you'll notice is that the studio is calm and quiet. You'll be welcomed, shown around, offered water, and given time to settle before anything begins. There is no rush — ever.
We have a private changing room and a dedicated feeding and nursing area within the studio. You are never expected to change or feed in a shared or open space. Your privacy and comfort are always protected throughout the session.
Step 4 — The Session Itself
This is where most first-timers have the most questions. What actually happens? Who tells me what to do? What if I look awkward?
Here is the honest answer: we guide you through everything. You don't need to know any poses. You don't need experience in front of a camera. We will show you exactly where to stand, where to place your hands, how to angle your body, and when to look at the camera — and when not to.
How a maternity session flows
We typically begin with the more formal, composed setups while you're fresh — gown shots, styled backdrop looks, couples portraits. As the session progresses and you relax into it, we shift toward more natural candid moments. Most maternity sessions include 2 outfit changes and run between 60 and 90 minutes, with extra time built in so nothing feels rushed.
How a newborn session flows
Newborn sessions run entirely at your baby's pace — always. We begin with wrapped poses during the deepest sleep, then move to prop setups — baskets, wooden bowls, floral arrangements — and finally family and parent portraits. We pause as many times as needed for feeding, nappy changes, and settling. Sessions run 2 to 4 hours depending on how settled your baby is on the day. Parents are present and involved throughout — you are never asked to wait outside.
"The shoot was smooth and wasn't a bit tiring for the kids too. They really delivered the vision I had in mind — and better than what I expected."
Step 5 — Outfits, Gowns and Props
One of the most common first-timer worries is what to bring. The short answer: not much.
Studio79 maintains one of the most comprehensive prop and gown collections at any photo studio in Virar. For maternity this includes flowing chiffon gowns, sheer overlay dresses, lace gowns, boho wraps, and organic drapes across a wide range of colours and sizes — updated regularly and available for all maternity types including twin and multiple pregnancies. For newborn sessions, all wraps, fabrics, prop baskets, bowls, floral accessories, and themed setups are provided. Everything is included. There is no hire fee.
- Full maternity gown collection — all sizes and types
- Newborn wraps, swaddles and fabrics
- Prop baskets, bowls and crates
- Floral and seasonal setups
- Makeup and touch-up — female staff
- Private changing room
- Private feeding and nursing area
- All backdrops and lighting
- Hair done before arrival (maternity)
- Personal outfits if you want them
- Nappies and milk or formula (newborn)
- Comfort item for baby if they have one
- Your partner and family — always welcome
Step 6 — After the Session
Once the shoot wraps up we'll have a quick debrief, and you'll leave knowing something beautiful is being made. Every image is individually hand-retouched — we enhance naturally, never transforming. Your fully edited gallery will be delivered digitally within 7 to 10 days. Print packages, framed portraits, and albums are available on request.
The Most Common First-Timer Questions — Answered
What if I'm not photogenic?
There is no such thing as "not photogenic" — there is only being in front of the wrong photographer. Our job is to find your best angles, guide you into natural positions, and capture you when you're genuinely relaxed. Every client who has walked in with this concern has left with photographs they love. Every single one.
What if my baby won't settle?
This happens more often than you think, and it is completely fine. In 36+ years of photographing newborns in Virar we have never had a session that didn't produce beautiful images. We work at the baby's pace, full stop. No pressure, no deadline.
Can my partner and family join?
Yes — always. Partner shots and family portraits are included in every session at no extra charge. Siblings are some of our favourite subjects and often produce the most joyful, spontaneous photographs of the entire session.
Can I request specific shots I've seen online?
Absolutely. Save any references that inspire you and share them over WhatsApp before the session. We'll incorporate your vision into the planning.
What if I'm not happy with the results?
In over three decades of photography in Virar, this has not happened. But if you ever have a concern about your gallery, reach out to us directly and we will always work with you to make it right.
Also read: what to wear for your maternity shoot, the best time to book your maternity session, our newborn photography safety guide, how to prepare for your newborn photoshoot, maternity photography at Studio79 Virar, baby and newborn photography at Studio79 Virar — more guides from Studio79, Virar's trusted photo studio since 1988.
Ready for Your First Session at Studio79 Virar?
WhatsApp us at +91 96078 67979 — we respond within a few hours on most days. We'll answer every question you have, walk you through the process, and make sure you feel completely confident before your session day.