Photography in Pretoria

Pretoria sessions with adore' photography are calm, elegant, and full of warmth. Whether you prefer an in-studio, greenhouse, or outdoor session, each photoshoot is guided gently and captured in soft, natural light to create authentic, timeless images.

Deciding between studio or outdoor maternity photos

May 19, 2026 by Jackie

Deciding between studio or outdoor maternity photos is a lot easier when you do not actually have to choose just one. With me, you can do your studio photos as well as make use of the grassfield and greenhouse on site, which gives you beautiful variety without having to drive around to multiple locations looking for the perfect spot while pregnant and already over life.

The studio gives you that clean, soft, timeless look with no weather stress, no wind, and no worrying about whether your toddler is about to vanish into the distance. Then the grassfield adds that lovely open, natural feel, especially if you want a bit more warmth and movement in your gallery. The greenhouse gives you something a little different again – soft light, texture, and an organic feel without needing to depend on sunset or perfect weather.

It is such a lovely option because you get different looks in one session while still keeping the whole thing easy. So if you have been stuck wondering whether studio or outdoor is better, the answer is happily both.

Cake smash with twins

May 10, 2026 by Jackie

A cake smash with twins is double the fun, double the chaos, and usually double the personality too. It is such a lovely way to mark a first birthday, especially because their little differences already show up so clearly by then. One baby might dive straight into the cake like they have trained for this moment their whole life, while the other sits there looking mildly suspicious and deeply unimpressed. That is exactly what makes it so good.

With twins, timing and simplicity matter even more. The best age is usually just before their first birthday, while they are sitting well, expressive, and still very much in that baby stage. Outfit-wise, I would keep it coordinated rather than matchy-matchy. Soft tones always photograph beautifully and stop the whole thing from feeling too busy. And yes, I would definitely include a few family photos first, before the icing starts flying and everyone looks like they have been through something.

A lot of parents worry that one twin will not cooperate, or that the whole thing might be a bit of a circus. Honestly, that is half the charm. A twin cake smash does not need to look perfectly polished to be gorgeous. It just needs room for personality, a bit of patience, and a sense of humour. The result is such a special record of who they both were at that age – together, but already completely themselves.

When should I book my newborn photoshoot?

April 30, 2026 by Jackie

The best time to book your newborn session is while you are still pregnant. Not while you are sitting in hospital on two hours of sleep, eating a stale sandwich and trying to remember what day it is. If you know you want newborn photos, it is much easier to get it sorted before baby arrives, while your brain is still at least partly functioning.

I pencil newborns in according to due date, and then we confirm the actual session once baby is here. That means you do not need to panic if baby comes early, late, or right on cue just to show off. Booking ahead simply makes sure I can keep space for you in those early days when newborn photos are best done.

It is one less thing to think about once your baby is here, and honestly, that matters. The newborn stage is already a blur of feeds, nappies, hormones, visitors, and wondering why someone so tiny can require this much admin. Booking before baby arrives just makes life easier

Motherhood mini’s – your kids do not need more photos of themselves, they need photos with you

March 31, 2026 by Jackie

Motherhood is full of beautiful little moments you are too busy living to really see.

You are the one holding, helping, carrying, comforting, feeding, fetching and doing a hundred small things all day long.

You are in the middle of it constantly, which means you rarely get to step back and see what your children see.

And what they see is love.

They reach for you without thinking. They lean into you when they are tired. They look for you first when they need comfort, reassurance, or home.

That is why these photos matter.

Not just because your children will treasure them one day, but because you get to see the closeness you are living inside every day and usually missing from.

There are always lots of photos of the kids. But moms are so often nowhere in them.

Not because they do not matter, but because they are the ones taking the picture, wiping the face, fixing the shirt, and making the whole thing happen.

A motherhood session gives you something different.

It shows you the softness. The connection. The way your child fits into you so naturally right now, in this season, before everything changes again.

Yes, your children will love these photos one day.

But I think moms need them too.

Because when you are deep in the work of raising your children, it is easy to miss just how beautiful this love looks from the outside.

Did you know we offer photo shoot vouchers?

March 20, 2026 by Jackie

Any of my packages can be purchased as a gift voucher. As soon as you made the payment and send me proof of payment I will forward a .jpeg gift voucher to you to print and present as you please. The recipient can then contact me directly to make a booking.

Why my clients keep coming back again and again

October 23, 2025 by Jackie

When my client walked into the studio with her fourth little boy, she laughed and said, “Jackie, I really tried to book someone closer to home this time… but I just couldn’t. There’s no replacement for your quality.”

That sentence made my whole week — not just because it’s lovely to hear, but because it says a lot about what experienced moms actually value when it comes to newborn photos. I’ve got four kids myself – so when a mom with a full house says, “I just couldn’t,” I know it’s not just about convenience. My clients like Mbali keep coming back because they know I get it – the lack of sleep, the half-packed nappy bag, the toddler who insists on wearing gumboots to the shoot. I’ve been there. Which is probably why I run my sessions like a well-oiled mom operation: warm studio, comfy couch, toys for the boys, soft background music, and a pace that suits a baby’s mood.

Why moms stick with the same photographer

By the time you’ve had multiple kids, you’ve tried it all – the fancy studio with 6 strobes, the friend-of-a-friend photographer, the DIY session that ended with a baby crying and a dad sweating. You know that what really matters isn’t props or backdrops. It’s how easy the experience feels.

My clients keep coming back because they know I’ll handle the chaos so they don’t have to. The session runs smoothly, the baby settles quickly, and there’s free flattering dresses waiting in the studio. They can just breathe for a bit – and that alone is worth the drive.

Quality over convenience

It’s tempting to book someone closer or a newbie that’s cheaper, I get it. When you’ve got a newborn plus older kids, loading everyone into the car feels like a military operation. But here’s the truth: convenience fades fast if the experience is stressful or the photos don’t feel like you.

A great newborn photographer doesn’t just take photos – she reads the room, spots a tired mom before she says a word, and quietly fixes the baby’s wrap while chatting about where to find the best breast pumps in Centurion.

When you’ve worked with someone who’s done this hundreds (okay, thousands) of times, you feel it. The lighting’s right. The pace is right. The whole thing just feels… easy.

The bonus of sticking with the same person

When a family returns again and again, I already know them – which means no awkward warm-up period. I know which side mom prefers, which sibling is the “runner,” and how to keep dad relaxed long enough to get those genuine smiles. It’s not just about photos; it’s about rhythm. And once we find that rhythm, every session feels like picking up where we left off.

Consistency also matters for your walls and albums. Every gallery flows beautifully into the next – from bump to baby number four – creating a visual thread through your family’s journey.

At the end of the day…

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth driving across Pretoria or Johannesburg for a newborn session – ask any mom who’s done it more than once. The answer’s always yes.

Because when you find someone who makes the whole process stress-free and gives you photos you can’t stop looking at, “closer” suddenly doesn’t matter at all.

And if you’re on baby number four (or thinking about it), I promise – I’ve seen it all, I’ve heard it all, and I’ve got enough tricks up my sleeve to make even your husband smile for the camera.

The ultimate guide to styling your family photoshoot in Pretoria & Johannesburg

October 2, 2025 by Jackie

The ultimate guide to styling your family photoshoot in Pretoria & Johannesburg

Ask any mom what stresses her most about family photos, and nine times out of ten it’s outfits. It’s not the shoot itself, it’s figuring out what everyone should wear. You want your photos to look polished, but not like you spent three sleepless nights on Pinterest boards. That’s exactly why styling is one of the first things I help with.

Color palettes that work
If your home is filled with whites, beiges, and muted tones, your photos should feel the same. Neutral palettes not only photograph beautifully, but they also blend effortlessly when you print and hang them up. Think soft creams, earthy textures, and muted pastels that feel timeless instead of trendy.

What not to wear
Here’s what will throw your photos off balance: logos, neon colors, and busy prints. They might look fun in the shop, but they end up being distracting on camera. The focus should be on your family and the connections between you, not on a giant superhero emblem glowing from your toddler’s shirt.

Coordinating without being matchy-matchy
Gone are the days of everyone in identical jeans and white tees. The goal now is harmony, not uniformity. Mix different shades of the same palette, layer textures, and let each family member’s outfit feel like their own. The result is cohesive, natural, and way more interesting than forced matching.

Where to shop locally
You don’t need to scroll endlessly online to get it right. Stores like Poetry and Country Road are perfect for moms-flowy, flattering pieces in soft tones. Woolies always has reliable basics that layer well. And for little ones, Keedo is a great spot for simple, comfortable outfits that photograph beautifully without fuss.

Every client gets wardrobe boards and local shopping suggestions-it’s one of the biggest reasons moms book with me. You’ll know exactly what works together before the day, so your family photos feel effortless, polished, and very much you.

How to choose newborn outfits for photos (without spending hours shopping)

September 24, 2025 by Jackie

How to choose newborn outfits for photos (without spending hours shopping)

The idea of a newborn photoshoot is exciting until you realize it comes with a side order of stress. Moms often tell me their biggest worry is: “What on earth are we going to wear?” Between baby brain, endless feeding sessions, and trying to find time to shower, the thought of outfit shopping can feel impossible. That’s exactly why I’ve set things up so you don’t have to.

The good news about baby outfits
Let’s get this part out of the way first. You don’t need to buy or pack a single thing for your baby. I provide all the wraps, props, and textures that work beautifully in photos. They’re soft, safe, neutral, and timeless, which means your little one looks perfect without you having to spend a cent or dig through online shops at 2 am.

What about mom?
This is the part most moms stress over. You want to look put-together but also comfortable, and nothing in your current wardrobe seems to fit quite right. I get it. That’s why I’ve built a studio wardrobe designed with you in mind. My collection includes flowy dresses, neutral pieces, and flattering styles that work with postpartum bodies. Everything photographs beautifully, so you’ll never have to worry that your outfit will date badly or distract from the focus on your family.

Why it works
When you walk into my studio in Centurion, I’ll guide you through the options that match your style and the look you want. I also send out prep guides ahead of time so you know exactly what to expect and don’t waste energy stressing over choices. Think of it as personal styling for your shoot-without the overwhelm or shopping trips.

Dad and siblings too
For dads and older kids, simple works best. I’ll give you easy tips for colors and textures that complement the look of the session. No need for fancy shopping trips-usually what’s already in your cupboard works perfectly once you know what to bring.

Take the stress off your plate
Your newborn shoot should feel calm, simple, and memorable. With baby wraps and props provided and a wardrobe ready for you, all you have to do is show up. I’ll take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying the moment.

When is the best time for maternity photos?

September 20, 2025 by Jackie

When is the best time for maternity photos? (South Africa edition)

Timing your maternity shoot matters more than most people realize. It’s not just about how big your bump looks, it’s also about how comfortable you feel. The right window makes the whole experience smoother, and gives you photos where you feel like yourself instead of someone who just waddled a marathon.

The sweet spot
The most popular time is between 28 and 34 weeks. By then your bump has a beautiful round shape, but you’re usually still comfortable enough to move around, sit, and stand without feeling like the shoot is an Olympic event.

Factors to consider
Every pregnancy is different. If you’re expecting multiples, your bump will show earlier, so you may want to book sooner. With high risk pregnancies, it’s safer to plan a bit earlier so you’re not stressing about timing later on. And some moms just “pop” earlier, which means 24 weeks could already give you that perfect curve.

Seasonal perks
South Africa has the best of everything when it comes to seasons. Spring means florals and fresh light. Autumn gives you rich tones and golden evenings. Winter can surprise you with cozy knits and layered looks that photograph beautifully. Summer is, well, summer—long evenings, glowing sunsets, and the option of both indoor and outdoor shoots.

What if you leave it too late
Don’t panic if you suddenly realize you’re 37 weeks and haven’t booked yet. I’ve photographed plenty of moms right up to their due date. Sure, it takes a little more care with comfort and posing, but we can absolutely still make it work.

I keep limited spots open each month to make sure my moms can book in their perfect window. Check availability early so we can plan a time that feels right for you.

How to prepare for a family photoshoot

September 19, 2025 by Jackie

How to prepare your toddler (and your partner) for a family photoshoot

Whenever moms book a family shoot, i usually hear the same two worries. one, “My toddler is going to lose the plot.” and two, “My husband will only do this under protest.” Met me put your mind at ease right now. Moth of these are completely normal, and neither of them is going to ruin your photos.

Toddlers don’t ruin photos
Toddlers aren’t built for standing still and smiling on cue. That’s actually a good thing. The running, the jumping, the random cuddles and tantrums are what make your photos feel real and alive. The goal isn’t a perfect row of forced grins, it’s the little quirks that remind you who your child really was at this age.

My tricks for wild toddlers
I’ve been doing this long enough to know toddlers respond best when the shoot feels like playtime. We move, we explore, we turn the session into a game. Distractions are my secret weapon, and I have plenty up my sleeve. You don’t have to stress about controlling your child. I’ll guide the flow so their energy works for the photos, not against them.

Getting dads on board
Most dads arrive thinking this is going to be long, complicated, and slightly torturous. It isn’t. I keep it quick, simple, and painless. I’ll give him direction so he never feels awkward or unsure, and we’ll get what we need before he starts checking his watch. By the end, even the most reluctant dads admit it was easier than they expected.

How you can prepare
You don’t need to nag anyone into compliance. Timing matters, so let’s pick a slot when your toddler isn’t already overtired or hungry. You will receive prep guide from me with regards to timing, how to prep your young kids and how best to handle the stress of getting ready on the day.

Pack a snack or two, because food is magic when attention starts to fade. And yes, a little light bribery works wonders. The promise of ice cream has saved many a session.

This is my speciality. I’ve had thousands of energetic kids and countless dads in front of my camera. You don’t need to manage it all. I’ll take care of the chaos, and you’ll walk away with family photos that feel natural, fun, and worth the effort.

Best maternity photoshoot locations in Pretoria, Johannesburg & Centurion

September 18, 2025 by Jackie

Best Maternity Photoshoot Locations in Pretoria, Johannesburg & Centurion

When you’re pregnant, everything feels like a mission. Deciding what to eat? A mission. Finding shoes that don’t feel like medieval torture devices? A mission. So when it comes to maternity photos, the last thing you need is another exhausting decision. That’s why where we shoot matters-it sets the mood, keeps things simple, and makes the whole experience feel like an actual treat instead of a task.

Studio Sessions
Think calm, controlled, and zero surprises. In studio, the lighting behaves, the aircon works, and you don’t have to worry about Pretoria’s famous four-seasons-in-a-day weather ruining your hair. My studio wardrobe is ready to go, so you don’t have to buy or iron anything. It’s the easiest option if you want styled, relaxed images without lifting a finger.

The Greenhouse
This one is for moms who love a natural, airy feel but don’t want to risk mud, rain, or mosquitoes plotting against them. The greenhouse is flooded with soft light all year round, and it’s weather-proof without feeling like we’re trapped inside. It has that organic, outdoorsy vibe-without any of the “I should have packed bug spray” regrets.

Grassfield Sessions
If you’re craving wide open skies and the kind of backdrop that never goes out of style, the field is your friend. These sessions have that soft, romantic glow (thank you, late afternoon light) and feel relaxed and expansive. Plus, toddlers usually have more fun here because they can run around instead of being told to sit still.

How to Choose
Your comfort comes first. If you’re 36 weeks and walking from the car feels like a marathon, studio or greenhouse will feel easier. If you’re bringing little ones, think about where they’ll be happiest-and let’s be real, a toddler in a field usually wins over a toddler cooped up. Some moms love a mix of variety, while others prefer to keep things as straightforward as possible.

The good news? You don’t always have to choose. My maternity sessions often include a bonus second location-either the greenhouse or the grassfield-so you get the best of both worlds without the extra effort.