Welcoming a new baby into your home is one of the most beautiful and emotional moments in life. An in-home newborn session is the perfect way to capture this special time in a relaxed, meaningful way—no need to pack a diaper bag or leave the house! These sessions are all about preserving the real, intimate moments of your growing family in the place where your memories are made.
To help make the experience stress-free and enjoyable, here’s a simple guide on how to prepare for your in-home newborn session.
1. Choose Soft, Neutral Outfits
For newborn sessions, soft, neutral colors photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your baby. Think whites, creams, pastels, or muted earth tones. Avoid bright colors or bold patterns that might be distracting in photos. Included with your newborn session is access to my client wardrobe, which includes a variety of dresses for mom that can be one less thing you have to think about (or purchase)!
Here are some outfit tips:
Mom: A flowy dress, soft knit sweater, or comfy loungewear
Dad: A neutral colored t-shirt or button down with jeans or light colored pants.
Baby: A simple onesie, swaddle, or diaper-only look (all included in the client wardrobe).
Siblings: Soft, coordinating colors (think complementary, not matching exactly)
Comfort is key! You’ll be holding, snuggling, and moving around with your baby, so wear something that makes you feel good!
2. Keep Baby Cozy & Content
A happy, sleepy baby makes for a smooth session. Here are some ways to help:
- Keep the house warm – babies love warmth, so setting a warm temperature helps them stay relaxed, especially for swaddle or diaper only photos
- Feed baby right before the session – A full tummy = a happy, sleepy baby.
- Have a pacifier nearby (if using) – This can help sooth baby between shots.
- Expect breaks – Diaper changes, feeding, and snuggles are all part of the session, and that’s okay!
3. Try to Declutter (But Don’t Stress!)
One of the biggest concerns parents have is whether their home is “photo-ready.” But here’s the good news- you don’t need a spotless house for beautiful photos! I recommend tidying up just a few key areas with good natural light, such as the master bedroom, the nursery, and the living room!
An in-home newborn session is all about celebrating your growing family in the most comfortable and meaningful space—your home. By keeping things simple, embracing the natural beauty of your surroundings, and focusing on connection over perfection, you’ll have timeless images that truly reflect this season of life.
