Auckland & North Shore — Studio Maternity & Newborn Photography
Celebrating Birth, Life & Memory
Auckland's studio-based maternity & newborn photography — Full creative control. Nothing left to chance.
Our new North Shore studio opens March 2027 — bookings available
THE ART OF MEMORY
An experience, beautifully remembered.
At MANAWA, we believe the most meaningful moments in life deserve more than to simply pass us by. They deserve to be experienced, remembered and held onto. Our sessions are an opportunity to slow down, to connect and to create something truly meaningful together — moments that become part of your story and are transformed into beautiful artwork for your home.
Because there is something magical about seeing your life reflected back at you, not on a screen, but as something tangible. Something you can live alongside, something your children can grow up with, and something that becomes more precious as the years pass.
Kia Ora ....
Why Families Choose MANAWA
I've spent over 20 years photographing maternity, newborn, and family moments across New Zealand and the United Kingdom — and I still believe every family deserves an experience, not just a photoshoot.
"Every family deserves images around their home that give their children a true sense of belonging — helping shape the foundation for a more confident, secure start to life."
- Award-Winning Photographer International Newborn Photography Competition and Awards (INPCA)
- Award-winning Photographer Association of Fine Art Newborns (AFNS) - Invite Only
- Contributing Photographer - Bump, Baby & Beyond Magazine
MANAWA meaning heart in Māori — and that's exactly what's at the beat of every session I shoot: bold, soulful, editorial photography that becomes something your child feels, not just sees.
"You'll walk away with images that hang on your walls and live in your child's heart — quietly telling them, every single day, that they are loved, they belong, and they always have"
Want to know the full story of how I got here? Read my journey to MANAWA here.
Written by Emma Williams, founder & lead photographer at MANAWA
The Studio
Where is the studio located?
Auckland, New Zealand, just 30 minutes from the city center. Now taking bookings for March 2027.
What can we expect?
A relaxed, comfortable and memorable experience with personal guidance at every step throughout your journey.
What props and accessories does the studio have available?
A colourful curated collection of props, wraps, and handpicked outfits to suit every session. If you have something particular in mind, please let me know.
What styles of photography does the studio offer?
Stunning modern, Vogue-inspired maternity portraits, snuggly newborn setups and timeless joyful family memories.
Is the studio suitable for families of all sizes?
Yes, whether it is your first baby or a full house of little ones, the studio is located on a large section and caters to all families. Adult supervision is required at all times.
"More than memories, we create connections to the generations"
Emma Williams
In the words of the families who have experienced it.
THIS IS MANAWA
Halimat Omola. Maternity Session
I had the most wonderful experience with Emma for my maternity shoot! She was incredibly patient throughout the entire session, making sure I felt comfortable and relaxed.
Her calm and professional approach really helped ease any nerves, and it made the whole experience so enjoyable.
The photos turned out beautifully—she captured such special, intimate moments that I’ll cherish forever. Her attention to detail and creativity truly shine through in every shot. I’m so grateful for the memories she helped preserve and would absolutely recommend her to anyone looking for a talented and thoughtful photographer
Ellie M. Newborn Session
OMGGGGGGG! you really are the best at capturing moments. I have just downloaded all the Images and absolutely LOVE them!!
Such a wonderful artist.
Thank you so much
I will be in touch soon with my artwork order and then too book my next session. We cant wait! xx
R.Slivia. Birthday and Cake Smash Session
We have had all of our photography sessions with Emma since pregnancy and it has been such a lovely experience.
Emma handled our baby with so much care and patience and now he is 1 we came straight back.
We totally enjoyed all of our shoots! Our pictures came out looking so beautiful everytime. Totally worth it 🥹❤️
From our first conversation to the moment your memories become art.
YOUR MANAWA EXPERIENCE
ENQUIRE
01
Let's begin - Tell me a little about yourself, your family and what you're hoping to create. We'll talk, answer your questions and make everything feel beautifully clear.
RESERVE
02
If you haven't already booked through our session pages, we book your session on your call. Then all you have to do is relax.
EXPERIENCE
03
Be present. I'll take care of the rest. A chance to slow down, connect and simply be together. I'll gently guide you while we create something meaningful.
REVEAL
04
Your memories, transformed into art. When your artwork is ready, we'll meet again for your personal viewing — the moment your experience comes full circle.
❤️
1000+
NEWBORNS
Over 20 years experience in handling newborns.
FREE
RESCHEDULE
Reserve your session up to 1 year in advance with free rescheduling
MONTHLY
PAYMENTS
From $50/week, interest free, in-house finance
FULLY
TRAINED
Newborn safety and
First Aid qualified.
Fully Insured
FREE
DELIVERY
Wall art and albums shipped throughout New Zealand
Answers In Advance
Can I see your full portfolio?
Absolutely and I encourage you to! Head over to my instagram page to explore a full collection of Manawa's work. Or head over to Manawa studio on Facebook. Links are below
Are you trained in newborn safety posing?
Absolutely. The safety and comfort of your baby is my number one priority — always. I'm fully first aid and newborn safety trained. Every pose, every prop and every setup is carefully considered with your newborn's wellbeing at the forefront of everything I do. I never rush, I never force and I always follow your baby's lead.
How many newborn sessions do you shoot per week?
At Manawa I deliberately keep my bookings intimate and limited. This means every single family receives my full attention, care and creative energy — because you deserve nothing less.
How do you keep my baby safe and comfortable throughout?
From the temperature of the studio to the softness of every prop and wrap, every detail of your baby's environment is carefully considered. I handle every newborn with the utmost gentleness and care, and I am always happy to talk you through exactly what to expect before your session.
How long does a session last?
Maternity sessions typically last between one and two hours. Newborn sessions are given as much time as they need — usually between two and four hours — because we always work at your baby's pace and never rush a single moment.
Can siblings and partners be included?
Absolutely — family is everything and I love nothing more than capturing those first precious moments together. Partners and siblings are warmly welcomed and I will make sure everyone feels relaxed, comfortable and completely themselves.
How many images will I receive?
Every session is different and I never limit creativity with rigid numbers. What I can promise is that you will receive a carefully curated gallery of stunning, fully edited images that tell your family's story beautifully.
How long until I get to see my photos?
Your fully edited gallery will be ready within two to three weeks of your session. I take great care and pride in the editing process — because every single image deserves to be absolutely perfect. At your newborn session we will find the best time and date for your viewing and ordering session
Do you offer prints and wall art?
Yes and I truly encourage it! At Manawa we believe your memories deserve to be printed, framed and treasured every single day — not stored in a digital folder. We offer a beautiful range of print collections and wall art to help bring your images to life in your home.
What are your packages and pricing?
At Manawa we offer a range of carefully crafted packages to suit every family. Please visit our services page or get in touch directly and I will be happy to talk you through everything to find the perfect package for you.
What is included in the session fee?
Your session fee covers your full studio session, all props, wraps and setups, my time and expertise behind the lens and is due at the time of booking. Your image gallery and print collections are then available as separate packages so you have complete flexibility over what you choose.
Do you offer payment plans?
I certainly do! I offer in house finance so no credit check needed. You simply pay off your session a month before your due date and any further purchases can be paid through a flexible payment plan. Any Images or products purchased will be delivered 28 days after final payment.
Where do we go....
The Studio is located North of Auckland just a 30 minute drive from the city centre, nestled in between the beautiful, relaxing and peaceful surroundings of the Dairy Flats.
We have a large section where family are more than welcome to explore, whilst the session is underway. Please keep little ones under your constant eye and if you would like to bring along family members for the experience, you are more than welcome too. MANAWA is a professional family business and we welcome our home to you, your family and whanau!