What to Expect During Your In-Home Newborn Photography Session
Bringing your newborn home is one of the most special moments of your life. Capturing those early days with a professional in-home newborn photography session ensures you have beautiful, timeless images to cherish forever. If you're wondering what to expect, here’s a guide to help you prepare for a relaxed and stress-free session.
A Comfortable, Baby-Led Experience
One of the biggest advantages of in-home newborn photography is that everything happens in the comfort of your own space. There’s no need to pack up and travel—your home becomes the perfect backdrop for natural, cozy images of your little one. I’ll gently guide the session while following your baby’s cues, allowing plenty of time for feeding, diaper changes, and soothing as needed.
The Best Time for Newborn Photos
For those dreamy, sleepy newborn photos, the typical timeframe for a session is within the first two weeks after birth. However, I also really love photographing newborns between 5-7 weeks—this is a wonderful stage when babies start opening their eyes more, interacting with their family, and showing their personalities. Plus, by this time, many moms are feeling a little more healed and settled at home, making the session even more enjoyable and relaxed. Whether your baby is just a few days old or several weeks in, the focus is always on capturing your family’s genuine connection.
How to Prepare Your Home for the Session
First things first—please don’t stress about cleaning! As a mom of two, I know how hectic those newborn days are, and I promise I’m not here to judge. I only need one or two relatively clutter-free spaces with good natural light. Typical rooms include:
The master bedroom – A cozy bed is the perfect spot for snuggled-up family photos. White or neutral bedding helps create a soft, timeless look.
The nursery – If you have a nursery set up, we can capture sweet details like baby in their crib, cuddles in the rocking chair, or simple moments by the window.
If you’re not sure which rooms will work best, don’t worry! When I arrive, I’ll quickly scout for the best light and guide you from there. I’ll also open blinds and curtains as needed to make the most of natural light. The goal is to keep things relaxed and natural—real life is beautiful, and I want to capture that for you.
Including Siblings & Pets
Your newborn session is about capturing your whole family’s love, and that includes big brothers and sisters—and even your pets! I love photographing those sweet sibling interactions, whether it’s gentle snuggles, curious glances, or playful moments. If you have a dog or cat who’s part of the family, I’ll happily include them in a few shots as well. These little connections make your newborn photos even more meaningful.
Natural, Light-Filled Images
I’ll look for the best natural light in your home—often near a big window or in the nursery—to create soft, beautiful images. You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect house; a simple, uncluttered space is all that’s needed. If you’re unsure about where to take photos, I’ll help find the best spots when I arrive.
What to Wear for Your Newborn Session
Soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your baby. Flowy dresses, cozy sweaters, and simple textures work well for parents. For your baby, a swaddle or a simple onesie is perfect. I recommend avoiding bold patterns or logos to keep the look timeless and cohesive.
Capturing Candid, Genuine Moments
My approach to newborn photography is relaxed and natural. I’ll document the little details—the way your baby curls up in your arms, tiny fingers wrapped around yours, and the quiet moments of connection between you and your family. These are the moments that matter most and tell the story of your baby’s first days at home.
Ready to Book Your Newborn Session?
I’d love to help you capture this special time with your growing family! My in-home newborn photography sessions in Atlanta, Decatur, Tucker, Dunwoody, Brookhaven, and surrounding areas are designed to be easy, comfortable, and stress-free. Head to my contact form to book a free consult call, and let’s chat about creating a session that feels natural and meaningful for you.
