Kiara ➳ Newborn by Abigail Smith

Some gifts are more than just presents—they are moments captured in time, memories preserved forever. Baby Kiara’s newborn session was one of those gifts, given with love by a dear friend who wanted to celebrate her arrival in the most meaningful way.

From the moment I met Kiara, I could see she was pure magic—delicate, peaceful, and already deeply cherished. There is something incredibly special about photographing a newborn, knowing that in just a few weeks, they will grow and change so quickly. These first days are fleeting, and I feel honored to preserve them for families to hold onto forever.

The name Kiara has various meanings across cultures, each as lovely as the little girl who carries it. In Italian, Kiara (Chiara) means light or bright, symbolizing radiance and purity. In Irish, it means little dark one, a poetic nod to depth and mystery. Whether seen as a beacon of light or a soul with quiet depth, Kiara already embodies the beauty of her name.

One of my favorite images is of Kiara resting in a tiny bucket, placed delicately on a chair and surrounded by soft pink roses. There is something so timeless about this portrait—the contrast of her tiny, perfect form against the blooms. It feels like a symbol of how she is cradled by love, not just in this moment, but always.

Newborn photography is more than just photos; it’s a way to hold onto these first precious days. Kiara’s session was a reminder of how meaningful these images will be in the years to come—when she is no longer this small, when these moments are distant but never forgotten.

To the friend who gifted this session—you gave more than just photographs. You gave a family the gift of memories, the chance to look back and remember just how tiny and loved their little girl was in her very first days.

Kiara, little light, may you always shine brightly in this world.

Newborn moments are fleeting, but the memories can last a lifetime. If you’re expecting or know someone who is, a newborn session is a beautiful way to capture the love, joy, and tiny details of those first precious days. Get in touch today to book your own session and create timeless memories you’ll cherish forever.

Zemvelo ➳ Swaddle Session by Abigail Smith

Every newborn session is a testament to the miracle of life. Her name, Zemvelo, means the natural one or the way of life, a name that felt deeply fitting for a little one who had arrived into the world with so much promise.

Zemvelo’s presence was a reminder that each life is a story unfolding, a journey that begins with the smallest of steps but carries within it a lifetime of growth, love, and change.

Newborn sessions hold a special place in my heart because they capture a fleeting moment—a moment when everything is still and pure. For the parents, it’s a time to look at their baby, to breathe in the miracle of their new arrival, and to hold those memories close. For the photographer, it’s a chance to create something timeless that will be treasured for years to come.

Zemvelo’s name is one that will carry weight throughout her life. The natural one. It is a name that connects her to the world, to her ancestors, to the earth beneath her feet. She is part of a legacy—one that will see her grow, learn, and flourish. These first photographs will one day be reminders of who she was at the very beginning, capturing the essence of her journey from the moment she entered this world.

Newborn sessions aren’t just about taking beautiful photos—they’re about capturing the heart and soul of those early days. They are about preserving a time that, once passed, cannot be recaptured. As the years go on, these images will be a reminder of how tiny and perfect little Zemvelo once was, of how her family held her close and loved her fiercely from day one.

If you’re expecting or know someone who is, I encourage you to capture these fleeting moments. A newborn session is an investment in memories that will be cherished forever.

📩 Contact me to schedule your newborn session and create timeless memories for your family.

Langelihle ➳ Newborn by Abigail Smith

There’s something so sacred about a newborn session—those tiny fingers, the softest wisps of hair, the way a baby curls up so perfectly, still remembering the warmth of the womb. Little Langelihle’s session was one of those moments where time seemed to stand still.

His name, Langelihle, means beautiful day, and that’s exactly what his session felt like—a quiet, beautiful moment in time, filled with peace and tenderness. As he slept soundly, wrapped in soft fabrics, I couldn’t help but think of the incredible journey ahead of him. One day, he will outgrow his tiny fingers and toes, but these images will always hold the memory of how small, how loved, and how perfect he was in his very first days.

Choosing the Right Newborn Photographer

Newborn photography is more than just taking pictures—it’s about preserving a fleeting moment, creating images that will be cherished for a lifetime. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a newborn photographer:

1. Safety First

Your baby’s comfort and safety should always be the top priority. A professional newborn photographer should know how to handle and pose newborns safely while ensuring a relaxed and gentle experience.

2. Experience & Style

Every photographer has a unique style—some prefer soft, natural light and dreamy pastels, while others lean toward bold and artistic setups. Take a look at their portfolio to see if their style resonates with you.

3. Patience & Flexibility

Newborn sessions can be unpredictable! Babies may need extra time to settle, feed, or simply be comforted. Choosing a photographer who is patient and understands the delicate rhythm of newborns makes all the difference.

4. A Meaningful Experience

These first days go by so quickly, and your newborn session should be a beautiful experience, not just a task to check off. Find someone who creates a calm, loving space—one where you can pause, breathe, and soak in the magic of your baby’s early days.

As baby Langelihle’s session came to an end, I felt so grateful to be able to capture these moments for his family. One day, these photographs will serve as a time capsule, bringing his loved ones back to these tender first days of his life. They will remember how tiny he was, how peacefully he slept, and how his presence made every day feel more beautiful.

If you’re expecting a little one or looking for the perfect gift for an expecting family, a newborn session is one of the most meaningful investments you can make.

📩 Contact me to book your newborn session and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Deandre ➳ Newborn by Abigail Smith

There are some stories that feel like they come full circle, and baby Deandre’s newborn session was one of them. Just a few weeks ago, I had the honor of capturing his mother’s maternity session—her hands resting gently on her belly, her eyes filled with quiet anticipation. And now, here he was, nestled in his parents’ arms, no longer a dream but a reality, a tiny miracle wrapped in warmth and love.

Newborn sessions are always special, but there is something even more meaningful about including parents in these moments. The way Deandre’s mother gazed at him, the way his father held him —it was a reminder that love expands in the most beautiful ways. In those early days, life moves in a blur of sleepless nights and endless cuddles, but photographs have a way of holding time still, of preserving the emotions that words cannot fully express.

Deandre, so small in their arms, already carried so much meaning. His name, often associated with bravery and strength, seemed to fit him perfectly. Though just beginning his journey, he was already the heartbeat of his family, the newest piece of a love story that would continue to unfold for years to come.

At the end of our session, we decided to have a little fun, capturing the most adorable baby mug shots of Deandre. His tiny expressions, ranging from sleepy curiosity to an almost serious little pout, had us all smiling. These were the moments of personality shining through—the glimpses of the boy he will become, the little spark that makes him uniquely him.

One day, when Deandre is no longer this tiny, when his parents can no longer cradle him in their arms quite as easily, they will look back at these images. They will remember the weight of him against their chest, the softness of his skin, the quiet wonder in his newborn eyes. And they will know, as they do now, that he was always deeply loved.

Deandre, may you grow strong and kind, always knowing that from your very first days, you were the center of a love that will never fade.

Mufunwa ➳ Newborn by Abigail Smith

Welcoming Mufunwa into the world was an absolute joy to capture. This tiny, sweet baby boy melted hearts the moment he was wrapped snugly in his swaddle, looking so peaceful and content. There’s something so special about photographing newborns—their delicate features, tiny fingers and toes, and the sense of wonder they bring to the world.

Mufunwa gave us such a treat during his session: a few rare and precious open-eyed moments. It was as if he was taking it all in, curious about the new world around him. His gaze was steady and filled with a quiet wisdom beyond his days—a moment I know his family will cherish forever.

Swaddled in soft fabrics, Mufunwa looked so cozy and serene, and the simplicity of the session highlighted just how perfect he is. There’s beauty in the details: the tiny wrinkles on his hands, the soft curve of his cheeks, and the way he fit so perfectly into this brand-new role in his family.

To Mufunwa’s family, thank you for trusting me to capture these first, fleeting moments of your little one’s life. I hope these images remind you of just how tiny and precious he was in these early days, a treasure to hold close as he grows and discovers the world around him

Kristin & Kennet by Abigail Smith

There’s something undeniably magical about a sunrise on the beach—the soft, golden light dancing across the waves, the fresh morning air filled with possibilities, and the sense of calm that comes with the start of a new day. For Kristin and Kennet, a couple visiting Mtunzini all the way from Estonia, this sunrise wasn’t just another beautiful moment; it was a celebration of their love and their journey together.

The Mtunzini beach gave us a stunning backdrop, from the rippling waves to the golden sands stretching as far as the eye could see. It felt like the perfect setting for this adventurous and loving couple. The early morning light worked its magic, casting a dreamy glow over the scene. Their laughter and tender moments were a reminder of how precious it is to take time to celebrate the one you love.

To Kristin and Kennet: Thank you for letting me capture this chapter of your love story. I hope these images bring you back to the peaceful rhythm of the waves and the golden light of that morning, no matter where life takes you next.

Mason & Olivia ➳ Christmas Baby Portraits by Abigail Smith

There’s something magical about the joy of Christmas, and capturing cousins Mason and Olivia together made this season feel even brighter. These two little ones brought so much personality to their Christmas baby portrait session!

Mason was an absolute bundle of energy, full of smiles and laughter that lit up the room. He loved every moment of the session, his playful nature shining in every photo. Olivia, on the other hand, was more reserved, her sweet shyness adding a soft and tender touch to the portraits. Together, their unique personalities created the perfect blend of festive cheer and heartwarming sweetness.

What made this session even more special was knowing how excited their grandparents were to see the final images. These photos will surely be cherished keepsakes for years to come, celebrating not just Christmas but the beautiful bond between cousins.

Mason and Olivia, you made this holiday season unforgettable with your smiles, laughter, and love. Wishing your family a Christmas filled with warmth, joy, and wonderful memories!

Holy-Holly ➳ Baby Portraits by Abigail Smith

Some little ones have a way of lighting up a room with their energy and charm, and 11-month-old Holy-Holly is one of them. From the moment she arrived for her session, her radiant smiles and bubbly giggles filled the air with joy. Her happiness was contagious, and it was impossible not to smile along with her.

Holy-Holly has such a unique way of expressing herself, and one of the most adorable things she did during the shoot was wrinkling her nose when she smiled—a gesture so full of personality and sweetness that I couldn’t help but capture it over and over. It’s these little quirks and fleeting moments that make childhood so precious.

The setup for her session was intentionally simple and elegant, allowing her bright spirit to take center stage. Against the clean backdrop, Holy-Holly’s vibrant personality truly shone. Her joy, curiosity, and playful nature created timeless images that beautifully reflected her personality. Every giggle and sparkle in her eyes told a story of pure innocence and happiness—a celebration of the incredible stage she’s at right now, just shy of her first birthday.

To Holy-Holly: May you always carry that radiant smile and nose-wrinkling charm wherever life takes you. You’re a little ray of sunshine, and it was a joy to capture these moments that reflect the light you bring into the world.