My Journey to becoming a Newborn and Family photographer
- Michelle Gaskell

- Mar 6, 2025
- 3 min read

Photography has always been a passion of mine, but I never imagined it would become my full-time career. What started as a creative outlet while living in Melbourne has transformed into a fulfilling profession that I am incredibly grateful for. Now based in Cardiff, Wales, I specialise in maternity, newborn, milestone, and family photography, capturing precious moments that families will cherish for a lifetime.
Finding My Passion for Photography
My journey into photography began when my sister was in college, she took photography and it fascinated me, and with her being two years older than me and I always looked up to her.
Then when I was in Australia I discovered my passion for storytelling through images. I would wander around the city and the bay, experimenting with capturing the fleeting magic of life. At that time, I worked as a hairdressing Manager, but gradually, I realised my true calling was to help families preserve their most cherished moments. This led to newborn photography, the elegance of maternity portraits, and the joy of capturing family milestones—from the excitement of pregnancy to the early days of a newborn’s life and the numerous milestones that follow.
When I moved to Cardiff, I knew I wanted to create this journey, and do it as my job. Wales has provided the perfect backdrop for my photography, with its stunning landscapes and warm, welcoming families. Every session I capture here reminds me why I love what I do. I adore an outdoor session, but the wales weather isn't always on our side, so I created a beautiful cozy studio from my own home, here the lighting and weather is always perfect.
Becoming a Mother Deepened My Understanding of Newborns
It wasn’t until I became a mother myself that I truly understood just how precious and fleeting those early days are. Experiencing the newborn stage firsthand gave me a new perspective on the emotions, exhaustion, and overwhelming love that new parents feel. It also deepened my appreciation for capturing those tiny details—the little fingers, delicate eyelashes, and sleepy smiles that change so quickly.
Having this personal experience allows me to connect with parents on a different level. I know how important it is to create a calm and safe environment, to work at the baby’s pace, and to ensure that the session is as stress-free as possible. My goal is not just to take beautiful photos but to provide a memorable experience that parents can look back on with joy.
The Importance of Passion and Determination
Building a career in family and newborn photography requires more than just technical skill—it demands passion, patience, and dedication. Newborn sessions, in particular, require a gentle touch and a deep understanding of how to create a calm and safe environment for both baby and parents. Similarly, maternity photography is about making expectant mothers feel beautiful, confident, and comfortable in front of the camera.
I have spent years refining my skills, learning the best ways to pose newborns safely, to feel natural and unposed. Ive perfected my lighting techniques, and understanding how to capture genuine emotions in family sessions. The dedication has been worth it because there is nothing more rewarding than delivering a gallery of images that truly reflect a family’s love and connection. no two of my sessions are the same.
Why I’m Grateful to Call This My Job
One of the best parts of being a Cardiff newborn and family photographer is witnessing the joy and love shared between families. Whether it’s a first-time mother cuddling her newborn, siblings giggling together, or parents celebrating a baby’s first birthday with a milestone photoshoot or cake smash shoot, every session is unique and special.
I feel incredibly fortunate to be trusted with these moments. Watching families return for milestone photography as their little ones grow is a privilege, and it reminds me just how meaningful this work is. It’s not just about taking pictures—it’s about preserving memories that will be cherished for generations.
Looking Ahead
As I continue to grow my business in Cardiff, I’m excited to meet more families and create even more beautiful images. Whether you’re expecting a baby and looking for a maternity photographer, or you want to document your newborn’s early days with a professional newborn session, I would love to be part of your journey.
If you’re interested in booking a session, feel free to reach out! Let’s create something beautiful together.
Are you looking for a Cardiff newborn photographer, family photographer, or maternity photographer? Get in touch today to book your session!

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