Welcoming a newborn into your home is one of the most precious and fleeting moments in life. An at-home newborn session is a beautiful way to capture this special time in a setting that holds deep meaning for your family. The goal is to create timeless images that reflect the love, warmth, and joy in your home, and a little preparation can go a long way in making the session smooth and stress-free. Here are some key tips to help you get ready for your in-home newborn photography session.

1. Set the Stage: A Clean & Cozy Space

Before your session, take some time to tidy up the areas where we’ll be shooting. This doesn’t mean your home has to be spotless—far from it! You’ve just welcomed a baby, and perfection is not the goal. However, having a clean and clutter-free space allows us to focus on the beauty of your family without distractions in the background.

To make it easy, focus on the rooms where we’re likely to shoot: the nursery, master bedroom, and living room. Simply tucking away items like laundry, dishes, or extra toys can make a big difference. If you need help, enlist a friend or family member for a quick tidy-up. Remember, the goal is to create a serene and beautiful environment, not a showroom-worthy home!

2. Lighting: Natural Light is Your Best Friend

One of the biggest advantages of at-home sessions is the opportunity to use natural light. I love working with soft, natural window lighting because it creates a warm and dreamy feel to your images. To help make the most of the light in your home:

• Choose rooms with large windows and open up the blinds or curtains.
• If your session is scheduled for a specific time of day, take note of when the light is at its best in those rooms.

If you’re unsure about the best-lit spaces in your home, don’t worry! I’ll do a quick assessment when I arrive to find the most flattering light. You can also send me photos of the space ahead of time and I can make recommendations.

3. Have Your Favorite Baby Clothes & Details Ready

Newborn sessions are all about capturing the tiny, fleeting details that make your little one unique. To personalize your session, have a few of your favorite baby items ready, such as:

• A special swaddle or blanket
• A simple, neutral onesie (solid colors and soft textures photograph beautifully)
• A tiny hat or headband (if that’s your style)
• Any sentimental items, like a handmade quilt, heirloom toy, or knitted booties

Keeping it simple helps ensure that the focus remains on your baby’s sweet features and expressions.

4. Timing is Everything: Plan Around Feeding & Naps

A happy, comfortable baby makes for a smoother session. To help set the stage for a calm and cozy experience:

• Plan to feed your baby right before the session so they are content and sleepy.
• If possible, try to schedule the session after a nap.
• Have a pacifier, burp cloths, and an extra bottle (if bottle-feeding) nearby just in case we need a quick break.

Newborns can be unpredictable, so don’t worry if things don’t go exactly as planned—we’ll go with the flow!

5. Big Emotions Are Okay: Patience is Key

Babies have their own schedules and moods, and that’s perfectly okay! Your little one might need extra cuddles, a feeding break, or just some time to settle. There’s no rush, and I always allow plenty of time for breaks, snuggles, and soothing moments.

If your baby gets fussy, don’t stress. Some of the most beautiful, intimate images come from those quiet moments of comforting your baby. These sessions are meant to be a relaxed and natural reflection of this special time, and we’ll take our time to capture the sweetest moments—big emotions and all.

6. Dress Comfortably & Coordinate Outfits

For parents and siblings, soft, neutral tones work best for a cohesive and timeless look. Think cozy textures, simple patterns, and colors that complement your home’s decor. Avoid bright colors, busy patterns, or large logos, as they can be distracting in photos.

Comfort is key—this is not the time for stiff or restrictive clothing. Choose outfits that make you feel confident and relaxed. And if you’re unsure about what to wear, I’m happy to provide guidance!

7. Involve the Whole Family (Including Pets!)

If you have older siblings or furry family members, they’re welcome to be part of the session! Including siblings in a few shots can create some of the most heartfelt and genuine moments.

To make the experience enjoyable for older siblings:

• Let them know in advance what to expect.
• Have a favorite toy or book on hand for breaks.
• Allow for playful, candid moments—sometimes the best sibling shots happen when they’re simply interacting naturally.

If pets are part of your family, they’re welcome to join in, too! Just let me know in advance so we can plan accordingly.

8. Relax & Enjoy the Experience

The most important thing to remember is that this session is about capturing your family’s love and connection. There’s no need to stress about everything being “perfect.” The best photos come from real, raw, and emotional moments—the little yawns, the way your baby snuggles into your chest, the gentle touch of tiny fingers.

Trust the process, embrace the moment, and enjoy the experience. These early days go by so fast, and you’ll cherish these images for years to come.

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Ready for Your Newborn Session?

If you haven’t booked your newborn session yet, let’s chat! I’d love to help you document this incredible time in your family’s journey.