Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you’d like to know - made simple.
At Caroline Doyle Photography, we want your experience to feel effortless and enjoyable from start to finish. Below are the most common questions families ask. From preparing for your session, to what happens after your portraits are created.
Before Your Session
What is a pre-shoot consultation?
A pre-shoot consultation is a valuable opportunity for us to connect before your portrait session. It allows us to discuss your vision, preferences, and goals for the shoot, ensuring that we capture images that truly reflect your family’s personality and style.
We’ll also cover practical details like your location, wardrobe ideas, session flow, and how to best prepare little ones (or big ones!). You’ll arrive at your session feeling confident, prepared, and excited - and that always shows in your portraits.
Where will my session be held?
Family Sessions – usually take place at your home or a meaningful outdoor location of your choice: beach, bush, park, or somewhere unique to your story.
Maternity Sessions – can be held in my natural-light newborn studio in Papamoa, your home, or outdoors.
Newborn Sessions – held in your home or in my calm, fully equipped Papamoa studio, designed for comfort and connection.
If you’re unsure what will suit your family best, I’ll happily guide you.
When should I book my maternity and newborn sessions?
Maternity sessions are best held around 34–36 weeks when your bump is beautifully round but you’re still comfortable.
Once your maternity shoot is booked, I’ll pencil in a tentative newborn date, usually just after your due date, and we’ll confirm once baby arrives.
The ideal window for newborn portraits is 4–14 days old, while babies are still sleepy and settled, allowing us to capture those soft, peaceful moments.
What should we wear?
I’ll guide you through wardrobe choices during your consultation, including colour palettes that photograph beautifully and complement your home’s tones.
Think timeless and coordinated, not matching. Soft neutrals, natural fabrics, and coastal tones always work well.
How long will my shoot take?
Family Sessions - about 1–1.5 hours — relaxed, playful, and full of connection.
Maternity Sessions - around 45–60 minutes, giving us time to explore different looks and locations.
Newborn Sessions - 2–3 hours, allowing plenty of time for feeding, cuddles, and settling so the session stays calm and baby-led.
I never rush. Your experience matters as much as your images.
What happens if it rains or someone gets sick?
Life happens! If the weather doesn’t cooperate or someone’s unwell, we’ll simply reschedule to the next available date. I want your session to feel relaxed and enjoyable, so we’ll make sure conditions are just right.
After Your Session
What is a Viewing & Design Appointment?
A Viewing & Design Appointment is where you get to experience your portraits for the very first time - and it’s truly special. We meet in person at my Papamoa studio for a cinematic-style reveal.
Together, we’ll select your favourites and design artwork that fits your home perfectly, whether that’s a statement wall piece, an album, or a collection of prints. You’ll be able to see and feel all the options before deciding.
This process ensures your finished artwork feels personal, beautiful, and built to last.
Do you offer digital-only packages?
I specialise in tangible, finished artwork - so I don’t offer digital-only packages. Your family deserves more than files sitting on hard-drive.
However, matching digital files are included with every physical piece you purchase, so you’ll have both heirloom artwork and the flexibility to share online.
What does it cost?
My portrait experience is flexible, allowing you to choose what suits your family and space. Most families invest in custom wall art or albums, and everyone walks away with artwork they adore. For more details about session options and artwork, please see The Process page
When will my finished artwork be ready?
Depending on what you order, finished pieces are usually ready within 4–6 weeks after your design consultation. Every print, frame, and album is made with care and precision by trusted local craftspeople.
How do payments work?
A session fee is due at the time of booking to secure your date. Artwork and products are purchased after you’ve viewed your portraits at your design appointment. Payment plans are available on request.
Philosophy & Experience
Why should I book with you?
Because I’m not just here to give you pretty photos, I’m here to help you preserve your story in a way that lasts.
I offer a high-touch, fully guided experience from start to finish: planning your shoot, choosing your favourites, and creating stunning, professionally finished artwork. Your portraits are lovingly edited and printed to the highest standard, then beautifully presented in handcrafted frames, albums, or ready-to-display formats.
I don’t hand over a gallery and leave you to figure it out, I’m with you every step of the way. I make sure your family’s legacy doesn’t get lost on a hard drive - it lives on your walls, in your hands, and in your hearts.
Do you photograph extended families?
Yes! I love capturing generations together. Grandparents, cousins, and multi-family combinations are a wonderful way to celebrate your family’s legacy.
We’ll chat beforehand to plan the best location and flow.
Do you travel?
I photograph families across the Bay of Plenty. From Waihi, to Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Papamoa, and as far as Ohope.
Travel beyond these areas is available on request.
Let’s turn your story into art.
If you didn’t find what you were looking for here, please reach out!
I’d love to chat and help plan your perfect session.
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HOURS OF OPERATION
Tuesday – Friday 9:30am – 2:30pm
Saturday & late night by appointment only
info@carolinemckenzie.co.nz
Papamoa (Tauranga), New Zealand
