Welcoming your newborn is one of the most precious times in your life, and capturing these moments with newborn photos in small spaces is a wonderful way to document this special chapter. But what if you live in a smaller apartment or home? You might wonder if you have enough space for a professional newborn photoshoot. I’m here to tell you that small spaces can create some of the most intimate and beautiful images imaginable.
In-home documentary newborn sessions focus on capturing your family just as you are—no fancy backdrops or large studios needed. Whether you live in a cozy Chicago apartment or a house with limited space, your home is still the perfect place for these sessions. Let’s explore 10 creative ways to make the most of your space for an unforgettable newborn photoshoot in a small space.
Maximize Window Light for Small Space Photography
Natural light is one of the most important elements in photography. Your home’s windows—no matter their size—are perfect for creating soft, flattering light for newborn photos in small spaces. Even if you have only one good window, we can position you and your baby in that light to capture stunning, natural images.
You don’t need large, sweeping windows. Smaller windows can still cast a beautiful glow on your baby while keeping the background in soft shadows. This helps make your newborn the star of the photo.
Cozy Bedroom Shots for Newborn Photos
Bedrooms are often the go-to space for newborn photos in small spaces, and for good reason. The bed provides a comfortable, safe space for your baby while allowing me to move around and capture a variety of angles. Don’t worry about your room being too small. Tight spaces can actually create a sense of closeness and warmth in the photos.
Simply put a neutral-colored duvet or blanket on your bed, and you’re ready to go! Fresh sheets and soft fabrics can make all the difference in creating a clean, cozy backdrop.
Check out this article about decorating small bedrooms from families.
Small Nursery Moments for Newborn Sessions
Even if your nursery is small, it’s still the perfect place to capture some of those first moments with your newborn. The room you’ve lovingly prepared for your baby, no matter its size, is part of your family’s story. We’ll use this space to photograph the details that mean the most—whether it’s the crib, a favorite blanket, or a rocking chair.
Small nurseries naturally keep your family close together, which creates a cozy, intimate feel for the photos.
Living Room Ideas for Newborn Photoshoots
If your bedroom or nursery doesn’t offer enough natural light, don’t worry, because living rooms can provide a fantastic alternative for newborn photos in small spaces. Living rooms, even small ones, are great for capturing family moments. A well-lit corner by the window or even a spot on the couch can create beautiful backdrops. In addition, it’s a great spot for sibling and family shots.
We can move any unnecessary items out of view. The focus will be on the love and connection in the moment rather than the size of the room.
Capture the Little Details in Your Newborn Photos
Some of the best documentary-style photos are all about capturing the little moments. For example, I love zooming in on the tiny details—your newborn’s fingers wrapped around yours, their little feet poking out of a swaddle, or the soft folds of a favorite blanket. Small spaces are perfect for these close-up, intimate shots that you’ll treasure forever.
Using Reflective Surfaces for Depth
If your apartment has mirrors or reflective surfaces, they can be great tools for adding depth and creativity to your newborn photos in small spaces. We can use a mirror to capture unique angles, giving the illusion of more space while also creating interesting, artistic compositions.
Mirrors can turn a small room into a much larger-feeling space in your photos. Therefore, they’re an easy and creative way to enhance the look of your session.
Incorporating Everyday Spaces for Newborn Photos
If your baby has a bassinet or co-sleeper in your room, we can use that space for some beautiful, intimate shots. Capturing your newborn in their everyday sleeping space adds an element of authenticity and comfort to the photos. These are the details that truly tell the story of your family’s first days together.
Document Your Routine in Small Space Newborn Sessions
One of the best parts of in-home newborn photography is the ability to capture everyday moments. Whether it’s feeding time, changing diapers, or rocking your baby to sleep, these simple, everyday moments are worth remembering. The size of your home doesn’t matter. What’s important is the connection and love in these moments.
Capturing real-life moments creates a meaningful set of images that go far beyond posed portraits.
Embrace the Closeness in Small Spaces
Smaller spaces naturally bring your family closer together, both in real life and in photos. What might feel cramped or tight during your session can actually come across as cozy and intimate on camera. You’ll find that these close-up, connected moments are the ones you’ll cherish most.
The closeness of your family in these photos makes them feel personal and emotional—perfect for documenting your newborn’s first days.
Keeping It Simple for Newborn Photos in Small Homes
You don’t need a perfectly styled home or a lot of space to create beautiful newborn photos. I always encourage parents to keep things simple. There’s no need to deep clean or redecorate; simply move any clutter out of sight. The focus will be on your family and the love you share, not the size of your home.
How to Prepare Your Small Space for your Newborn Photos Without Stressing Over Cleaning
One of the best parts about documentary-style newborn photography is that it’s all about capturing real life. This means you don’t have to stress about cleaning or making your home look perfect. Here are some simple ways to prepare your home for a newborn session without getting bogged down by housework:
Tidy Up, Don’t Deep Clean
No one will be looking closely at your floors or countertops. Just move any clutter (like mail, dishes, or baby gear) out of the frame. I focus on the moments and emotions, not your house’s cleanliness.
Move Big Items Out of View
If you’ve got a large box of diapers or an oversized bag sitting in the corner, just shift it to another room or around the corner. Out of sight, out of mind!
Fresh Linens for a Clean Look
If we’re shooting in your bedroom, putting clean sheets or a nice comforter on the bed is a quick and easy way to create a cozy backdrop. Neutral or soft colors work best!
Keep Personal Items Private
If there are things like medicines, mail, or packages with personal info, just move them out of view. This ensures we focus on your family without any distractions.
Embrace the Mess
If toys, books, or baby items are scattered around, that’s okay! These little details are part of your life right now and can even add charm to your photos. We can always move things out of the way, but don’t worry about hiding the fact that you have a newborn!
Let the Light In
Open up your curtains or blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. It helps create soft, natural lighting that’s perfect for these sessions.
Why Small Spaces Work for Newborn Photos
If you’ve been hesitating to schedule an in-home newborn session because you think your space is too small, I hope these ideas help ease your mind. Newborn photos in small spaces don’t limit the quality of your photos—they enhance the sense of closeness, intimacy, and connection that in-home documentary photography is all about. Whether you’re in a cozy Chicago apartment or a small house, your home is the perfect place to capture these fleeting, precious moments with your newborn.
In-home newborn sessions are all about embracing your real life, and that includes the space you call home. Don’t let the size of your home hold you back—let’s work together to create timeless images that capture your family’s love in this special moment.
