In-Home Newborn Session Prep Guide
What is an In-Home Newborn Session?
In-home newborn sessions are a unique and personalised way to document your family’s story from the comfort of your home. There’s no rush to get everyone out the door or stress over packed diaper bags and car seats. These sessions are relaxed, with minimal posing, capturing everything from feedings to lounging on the couch. It’s about documenting your real, everyday moments.
What to Expect
Scheduling the Session
Once your baby arrives, send me a quick text so we can start planning. Most newborn sessions take place when the baby is 5-10 days old. At this stage, babies are typically very sleepy and still in a womb-like state, which makes for the best photos. Plus, we aim to photograph before the baby acne appears. We will have a consultation to discuss about the session, pick your outfits and decide which rooms you'd like to use for the photos. We'll also consider how the natural light moves throughout the day to ensure we capture the best possible images.
On the Day of the Session
When I arrive, I'll assess the lighting in the chosen rooms and make any necessary adjustments. Throughout the session, your baby will lead the way. If they need to eat, be changed, or if they're awake and alert, we’ll adapt and capture those natural moments.
Flexibility is Key
Babies cry and can be fussy; it’s totally normal. In-home sessions allow for breaks whenever needed, ensuring a relaxed environment. Don’t worry if your older children are shy or uncooperative. We’ll go with the flow and capture genuine moments as they happen.
Preparing Your Home
Bedding
I usually recommend using a white or beige sheet or blanket for bedding. These neutral colours help to prevent any unflattering colour casts on your baby’s skin and create a harmonious backdrop that complements everyone's clothing and the overall colour scheme of your home.
Tidying Up
Your home doesn’t need to be spotless. Focus on decluttering the areas where we’ll shoot. Clear counters and floors of unnecessary items, but don’t stress about deep cleaning. A lived-in home adds to the authenticity of the session. It’s also helpful to wipe down windows and mirrors, as streaks and dust can be very noticeable in photos.
Remember, your home does not have to be perfect. It’s your home, and it’s supposed to look lived in, especially if you have little ones. You don’t need to hire a professional cleaner or redecorate the living room. I’m there to focus on you and the interactions with your new baby and family.
Temperature
Keep your home warmer than usual. Babies love being warm and cuddly, and a warmer environment will help keep them content.
Preparing Props
Gather any special items you want to include in the session, such as blankets, soft toys, or family heirlooms. I also have a client wardrobe and props available for use.
Preparing Your Little Ones
This is probably the most important part! Instead of telling your little ones that I'm coming over to take their photos and that they need to sit still and behave, frame it as an exciting visit. Let them know that I'm coming to have fun with them, see their favourite things, and capture their special moments with mummy and daddy. This approach helps them feel relaxed and happy, leading to genuine smiles and laughter without forced poses.
Think about activities or things your family loves to do together. If your little ones have favourite books, games, or activities, let me know so we can include these in the session. Whether it's reading a beloved book, helping in the kitchen, singing a favourite song, dancing, playing a game, or looking at old pictures that fascinate them, incorporating these personal elements will make your photos even more special and meaningful.
Preparing Your Baby
About 30 minutes before the session or before the baby naps, loosen the baby’s nappy to allow time for the nappy’s imprint marks to disappear. Also, remove any tight clothing that could leave marks on the skin. If your baby’s skin is a little dry or flaky, try applying a small bit of baby lotion to those spots the day before our session.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my baby is fussy and cries?
It’s completely normal. We can take breaks whenever needed, and I’ll capture beautiful moments in between.
What if my older child is afraid of or uninterested in the baby?
This is normal too. I won’t force them into the frame. Sometimes simple games help, but if not, we’ll let them be and capture moments naturally.
My house isn’t Pinterest perfect.
That’s okay! I don’t need a perfect house, just good lighting and some clear spaces. The focus is on your family, not your home’s decor.
I live in a small apartment with limited light.
No problem! We’ll make the best use of the space and light you have. Cribs aren’t necessary; we can use couches, beds, and even the floor.
How long does a typical session last?
Most sessions last around 2 hours, allowing plenty of time for feedings, diaper changes, and fussy moments.
Do you bring props?
As a lifestyle photographer, I prefer a minimalistic approach. My goal is to capture your family organically.
We feel awkward in front of the camera. Will you help pose us?
Absolutely! I’ll guide you into poses and then encourage natural interactions to capture genuine moments.
What if the baby needs to eat during the session?
We can absolutely take breaks for feeding. These moments are part of your family's story and can be beautifully captured.
Should we include pets in the session?
If pets are a big part of your family, absolutely! Just let me know in advance so we can plan accordingly.
What if my baby has already developed baby acne?
Don’t worry. Temporary skin issues like baby acne, scratches, or bruises can be retouched in post-processing. Birthmarks and permanent features will remain as they are part of your baby’s unique character.
What if my baby is awake the entire time?
Awake photos can be just as beautiful as sleeping ones. We’ll capture the baby’s curiosity and alertness, and you’ll have a wonderful variety of images.