So, you’ve decided to have your newborn photoshoot in your home—great choice! 🥰 In-home sessions are intimate, comfortable, and truly capture your family’s unique connection during this precious season.
But now you might be wondering: How do I prepare for this? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Whether you’re working with me or another photographer, these tips will help ensure your in-home newborn session is a relaxed and memorable experience.
1. Schedule Your Photoshoot in the Late Morning
I typically schedule newborn sessions to start at 10:00 a.m., and here’s why:
- Calmer Mornings: Babies are generally more relaxed and content in the morning. After having my own child and photographing countless newborns, I’ve learned that mornings are the golden hour for happy babies (and happy parents!). A calm baby allows the session to flow naturally and makes the experience enjoyable for everyone.
- Best Natural Light: Morning light is soft, even, and perfect for your newborn photoshoot in your home. No matter the weather or layout of your home, natural light during this time is the most flattering, helping us create bright, airy, and timeless images.
2. No Need to Deep Clean Your Home
Yes, you read that right—don’t stress about cleaning the entire house before I arrive. As a mom myself, I understand how intense the newborn period can be. Your session is about celebrating this special time, not adding extra work to your plate.
When I arrive, we’ll do a quick walkthrough of your home to choose the best spots for photos. Typically, we’ll focus on just a few areas, like the master bedroom, living room, or nursery. I’ll help tidy up any clutter in those specific areas, so no need to scrub the whole house. Promise!
3. Gather Special Items Ahead of Time
If there are specific items you’d like to include in your photos, it’s a good idea to have them ready before the session. Here are some suggestions:
- Neutral Onesies: A simple, snug-fitting onesie in a neutral color works beautifully for newborn photos. Avoid bold patterns, graphics, or oversized outfits—they can overwhelm your baby in photos.
- Swaddle Blankets: Soft, neutral-colored swaddles add warmth and texture to your images.
- Heirlooms or Sentimental Items: A knitted blanket, a special toy, or a family keepsake can add personal meaning to your photos.
I don’t bring props or outfits to the session because it’s more hygienic to use your own items, and your baby will feel most comfortable with things that smell like home.
4. Adjust the Temperature
Newborns love warmth, so if it’s winter, turn up your thermostat to around 70 degrees before the session starts. If it’s summer, I may close windows to minimize drafts. Keeping the space cozy will help your baby stay calm and happy during the session.
5. Feed Your Baby (and Any Other Kiddos) Before the Session
A full belly = a happy baby. If possible, feed your newborn shortly before I arrive so they’re content and relaxed when we begin. The same goes for toddlers or older siblings who will be part of the session—happy, fed kids are more cooperative and engaged.
That said, there’s no pressure to stick to a rigid schedule. If your baby needs to feed during the session, that’s absolutely fine. I love capturing breastfeeding or bottle-feeding moments, as they’re some of the most tender and intimate moments of this season.
That’s It! Relax and Enjoy the Moment
Your newborn session shouldn’t be stressful or overwhelming. My goal is to make it a laid-back experience that fits seamlessly into your day. In under two hours, we’ll create a gallery of images that beautifully document this fleeting, magical time in your family’s life.
I can’t wait to capture your story in the place where your family feels most at home.
