I LOVE in-home sessions SO MUCH! They showcase your brand new family member in the comfort of their own home with their parents, siblings, and pets! Babies change SO MUCH in those first few weeks, so I love being able to capture that new goodness for parents. Take a peek into my lifestyle newborn session prep guide to make sure your in-home session is everything you’ve imagined and more.
Tips for Prepping for Your In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Session
Locations
The first thing we will look at is locations in and around the home for the session, so please give me a tour once I arrive, and I will take some test shots. Prime locations are the Master Bedroom, Nursery, Living Room, or Guest Bedroom. Please do not feel the need to deep clean your entire house before I come. Please. There is no need to impress me… like at all… I’m a mom of three. So literally nothing scares me. However, if you can, try to declutter items on counters and floors in the spaces you’d like me to photograph. Less is more when it comes to these types of sessions. That’s why spare bedrooms have always been a favorite of my clients. Also, keep in mind your bedding. There are some really wonderdul colors and patterns out there, however, if you have a white sheet/blanket/comforter definitely bring that out and lay it on top. Bright, bold colors will cause shadows and colors on the skin, leaving a tint of whatever color the blanket is. Simple is best.
Lighting
The best time for in-home newborn sessions is 10:30 AM to 12 pm, during daylight hours when the lighting is best. We will be embracing the natural light, so please open up those window blinds and turn off the overhead lights so we can take advantage of the natural brightness as much as possible. I’ll put you all next to the windows as much as possible! If natural light is not sufficient, I will use my flash at a very low power to bounce off the ceiling, adding just enough light to illuminate you all in your space.
Prepping Your Newborn
Try to feed the baby shortly before your session time. This ensures the baby has a full belly and will hopefully be happy and cooperative for pics! If you would like any feeding/nursing pictures, we can absolutely do this at the beginning of the session…so hold off feeding the baby until I get there, and we’ll get some of those done first! Additionally, turn up the heat! Babies are much happier in a warm environment. It also allows the baby to be comfortable for naked/diaper pictures and isn’t so upset to have their clothes changed if the house is extra warm.
What to Wear
Think neutrals, neutrals, neutrals!! White, cream, beige, gray and soft pastels. They create a clean, cohesive look that draws attention to your smiling faces rather than colors and patterns that can potentially clash colors. Here are some links to help.
Posing and Props
Since this is a lifestyle newborn session that is very heavy on the candid and documentary nature, I leave any ‘props’ that you want to include up to your discretion. You can absolutely round up your own items to incorporate into the photos, such as swaddles, hats, baskets, headbands, outfits, etc. I’ll be taking candids 95% of the time, documenting your interaction with your baby and significant other. My goal is to get genuine emotions! Here are some examples of what I will have you do:
- Sit close together on the bed and kiss and cuddle the baby
- Lay down with baby between you both
- Feed the baby (breast or bottle)
- Burp baby
- and so much more.
FAQs for Lifestyle Newborn Sessions
When in doubt, just ask me! I respond quickly and always want to ensure things are clear before my arrival. But here are some of my most frequently asked questions.
When do we schedule newborn sessions?
Within the first two weeks, but if you want more time to settle in, within a month is okay—the sooner, the better.
How long do newborn sessions last?
Typically, it takes between 30 and 45 minutes. I know how precious those first few weeks after the baby has arrived are, and I don’t want to overtake that for your family. So, I try to be quick and efficient in getting you all of the photos you want.
When will I get my photos?
I try to post teasers on my social media within 48 hours and then have your proofs ready to choose from within 1 week. The final edited images are sent 3 weeks after you choose your favorites.
Are you vaccinated?
I am fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and up to date on all others, including, but not limited to, Tdap, flu, and MMR.
I Can’t Wait for Your In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Session!
While we’re on the topic, have you booked your in-home lifestyle newborn session yet? If not, let’s chat! I’m a Bay Area-based newborn photographer and a mother myself. I know how precious those first few months are, and I want to make sure you can treasure them forever! I focus on taking lifestyle pictures that offer genuine images of your day-to-day life. From maternity pictures to family portraits, I do it all! Contact me so I can tell you more about what sets my process apart.
