A Warm Welcome: Twin Boys Handré & Jurgen
This intimate in-home newborn session celebrated the arrival of twin boys, Handré and Jurgen Vermaak. Captured in the warm, earthy tones of their beautifully styled bedroom, the shoot included proud parents Madelein and Ferdie—and even their cat, Levi. With soft light, gentle textures, and genuine emotion, this shoot was filled with love, connection, and new beginnings.
Scroll down to view the full gallery and read their story.
Full Story: A Cozy Twin Newborn Shoot in Cape Town
There’s something incredibly special about being invited into a family’s home during the earliest days of their parenting journey—especially when that journey begins with twins.
This newborn lifestyle session with the Vermaak family took place in the heart of their home, surrounded by soothing tones of brown, beige, and deep olive green. Every detail—from their styling to the natural light filtering through the bedroom—reflected warmth, serenity, and a deep sense of love.
Meet the Vermaak Family
Madelein and Ferdie Vermaak welcomed twin baby boys, Handré and Jurgen, into the world with grace and joy. Newborn shoots can sometimes feel overwhelming, but these two made it look effortless. Calm, present, and completely in love with their sons, they created a peaceful atmosphere that allowed for natural, unscripted moments to unfold.
Ferdie wore an olive green button-up shirt that paired perfectly with the room’s earthy palette. Madelein’s soft cream-coloured dress added lightness and flow, bringing a maternal softness to the portraits. Their styling struck a perfect balance—organic, classic, and cohesive.
The Space: A Bedroom Filled with Warmth
Photographing in their bedroom added a deeply personal touch to the shoot. With rich textures and tones of beige, brown, and dark green, the space served as a warm and timeless backdrop. The neutral tones helped the twins’ tiny details—their skin, their curls, their little fingers—stand out beautifully.
This space allowed for snuggly bed shots, soft window light portraits, and quiet moments that spoke volumes about the intimacy of early parenthood.
Levi the Cat Joins the Session
One of the sweetest moments came when the family’s beloved cat, Levi, hopped up onto the bed to observe—and occasionally pose. Including pets in newborn shoots adds such a special touch. It documents the whole family and tells a fuller, richer story of life at that moment.
Levi moved gracefully around the room, occasionally curling up near the twins or stretching lazily in a patch of sunlight. His calm presence added charm and warmth to the session.
The Importance of Lifestyle Newborn Photography
Unlike posed studio sessions, lifestyle newborn shoots are about documenting real connection in a natural environment. It’s less about perfection and more about presence.
We focused on:
Close-up portraits of each baby
Family snuggles on the bed
Mom and dad each holding one twin
Tiny details like fingers, toes, and matching outfits
Genuine family interaction—including Levi!
These photos serve as timeless reminders of the early chaos, love, and magic that only the newborn season can offer.
Why In-Home Sessions Are So Meaningful
Shooting in the comfort of your own space means everything you need is close by—nappies, bottles, blankets, and most importantly, the rhythm of your new life. It’s relaxed and baby-led, ensuring that everyone, especially new parents, can simply be themselves.
It also means your surroundings are deeply personal and full of story—from the colours you’ve chosen to decorate your nursery, to the pets and mementos that are already part of your child’s first chapter.
Book Your Own Newborn Session
Whether you’re expecting twins, a single newborn, or documenting a growing family, Elaine Otto Photography offers lifestyle newborn sessions designed around authenticity, beauty, and connection.
Working across Cape Town and the Western Cape, I photograph in-home sessions that are quiet, gentle, and emotionally rich—tailored to suit your space, your family, and your story.
Let’s celebrate your new beginning, together.