10 Tips to Prepare for a Newborn Session at Home
April 15, 2025 • 3 min read
(That Don’t Involve Deep Cleaning or Matching Outfits)
Bringing a photographer into your home with a brand-new baby can feel a little intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be! Whether you’re running on coffee and cuddles or barely remember what day it is (hi, newborn life!), here are ten easy ways to feel prepped without the pressure.
1. Don’t Stress About Cleaning
I promise, I’m not here to judge your laundry piles. I’ll focus on the rooms with the best light and space and gently move what’s needed to get the shot—no deep cleaning required.
2. Keep Baby Comfy and Fed
A full belly and a cozy swaddle go a long way toward keeping your baby calm and sleepy for photos. Feed just before I arrive, or as I set up, and we’ll take breaks whenever needed—your baby’s comfort leads the session.
3. Turn Up the Heat
Warm babies = sleepy babies. Bump the thermostat a few degrees before I arrive, especially if we’ll be doing any posed or un-wrapped shots.
4. Lay Out Any Special Items
Have a sentimental blanket, a favorite onesie, or a family heirloom you’d like to include? Place them nearby so we can easily incorporate them into the session.
6. Dress in Neutral, Soft Tones
You don’t need to match perfectly, but soft, neutral colors (think creams, grays, blush, sage, and don’t overlook classic black) photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your baby. Avoid bold logos or neon colors—they can distract in photos.
5. Say Yes to Being in the Frame
You don’t need to be “photo ready” to be in your baby’s story. A soft robe, a quiet moment, a hand resting on their back—these make for the most meaningful images.
8. Prep Older Siblings Gently
Let big brothers or sisters know a friend is coming over to take pictures. No need to push perfect behavior—we’ll make it fun, relaxed, and playful so they feel included and at ease (and we’ll work fast while their attention lasts!).
7. Keep Backup Outfits Handy
Accidents happen—especially when babies are involved! Have an extra outfit for baby (and maybe for you too), just in case of a mid-session blowout or spit-up surprise.
9. Open the Blinds (If You Want)
If the light’s great in your home, we’ll use it! But if not, no worries—I bring my own soft pro lighting setup, so we can still create beautiful, natural-looking images without relying on the sun.
10. Relax—Seriously
The best sessions happen when you let go of expectations. Babies cry, toddlers get wiggly, and life happens—and that’s all okay. I’ll gently guide the flow and capture the magic in the midst of it all.
Let’s turn your living room into a memory-making studio!
Don’t Forget to Pin it!
