How to Prepare for an In-Home Newborn Session

Preparing for an in-home newborn photo session can be a daunting task, but with a few tips and tricks, you can make it a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved! Your home is a great choice for a newborn session because it helps tell the story of this time in your life. You’re about to spend a lot of time in your baby’s nursery, rocking chair, and mom and dad’s room. Including these special places that will be a reminder of what life is like right now. While these rooms are fresh in your mind at the moment, someday that will change. In a time of life that can be a blur, you’ll be so happy you have images to look back on one day. Read on for my tips to prepare for an in-home newborn session!

My top tips to prepare for an in-home newborn session

1. Create a calm atmosphere

First, make sure to create a calm and comfortable atmosphere in your home. Turn off any artificial lights, turn off the TV, and try to keep noise to a minimum. This will help the baby relax and feel secure. Open all your blinds to let as much natural light in as possible. I prefer to shoot with natural light, but will bring flash if needed.

2. Keep your home warm

Second, keep the temperature in the room comfortable. Babies can get cold quickly, so make sure the room is warm enough to keep them comfortable. I recommend increasing the temperature in your house to make it super comfy for baby.

3. Have special props handy

Third, make sure you have any accessories you might need for the session. This can include special blankets, hats, wraps, and other items that can help create beautiful photos. If you have any special requests for props you’d like included, just let me know! I’m happy to incorporate them. I will supply all wraps, bonnets, and headbands for posed newborn photos. My favorite place for adorable newborn outfits is Sweet Baby Photo Props. Almost all my wraps and bonnets are from Sweet Baby. Their quality is top-notch!

4. Declutter the spaces we’ll be shooting in

Fourth, make sure the area you plan to use for the session is clean and clutter-free. This will help create a safe and inviting environment for your baby. Not every space in your home needs to be clutter-free, just the space we’ll be using. I typically will use mom and dad’s room and baby’s nursery for in-home newborn sessions. Using the environment you’re raising your little one will be very meaningful when you look back on your images in years to come.

5. Go with the flow

Finally, be prepared to go with the flow. Babies can be unpredictable, so keep your expectations flexible and be ready to make changes as needed. It might take longer than we first thought depending on how baby is feeling. That is 100% okay! You can’t rush a newborn session. We will take as long as needed to get the images. You’re free to feed baby as often as needed. Typically, in-home newborn sessions last 1.5-2 hours.

By following these tips, you can create a successful and enjoyable in-home newborn photo session! Your home does not need to be Pinterest-worthy. I’ll take a peek around your home when I first arrive and we’ll find a room with good lighting to shoot in. It doesn’t need to have huge windows and tons of light. As long as there is a window, we will be all set!

If you’re interested in scheduling an in-home newborn session, please reach out! The ideal time to book a session is a couple of months before your baby is due to secure a spot on my schedule.