The first days, at home
Prepare for your newborn session
I come to your home to photograph your newborn and your family’s connection. Here is what to prepare, what can stay as it is and how to leave room for your baby’s needs during photographs.
In this guide
What does an in-home lifestyle newborn session offer?
Going out with a newborn can mean packing a bag, working around a feed and organising the whole family when you are already tired. At home, everyday supplies are nearby and you do not have to travel for photographs.
The lifestyle approach keeps your baby at the centre: their face, hands, feet and the way you care for them. Parents and siblings can be included too. You do not need new decorations or a room converted into a studio.
There is still photographic guidance: I help with the setting, framing and position of the people in the picture. The photographs should hold onto the closeness of these days without requiring a perfect-looking routine.
Which areas of my home should I prepare?
Think about places where you feel comfortable with your baby: near a window, in a chair you normally use or in a quiet part of the bedroom. Light and room to work matter more than having a large house.
Move distracting or private items from those areas, such as boxes, paperwork or active screens. Keep care essentials nearby even when they are outside the picture.
You do not need to redecorate or buy new bedding. A simple surface can help, but your home’s details are part of the memory too. If you are unsure which area to choose, we can discuss the possibilities while preparing.
How do we work around feeding and rest?
You do not need to keep your baby awake so they will sleep during photographs or delay a feed until I arrive. Follow their needs and their healthcare professional’s guidance. Feeding, changing and being held come first when needed.
An awake baby can also make meaningful photographs: their gaze, a hand around your finger or a moment with their parents. The session does not depend on deep sleep.
Keep diapers, wipes, a cloth and spare clothes nearby. Have your usual feeding supplies accessible; there is no need to introduce a bottle or pacifier that is not part of your baby’s care.
Have a session in mind? Let’s talk about your ideas.
What clothes work for an in-home newborn session?
Choose a comfortable, well-fitting baby outfit that does not cover the face. Keep a spare ready if needed. Large graphics or lettering can draw attention away from tiny features.
Adults should choose clothes that allow comfortable sitting and holding. Coordinate soft colours or neutrals without matching every outfit. Look at siblings’ clothes together too, so no one appears dressed for an entirely different occasion.
A meaningful object can belong in the photographs, but your baby does not need to be surrounded by accessories. Tell me about an heirloom garment or special detail so we can decide how to photograph it.
Can parents and siblings take part in the newborn session?
We can think in a short sequence: baby with parents, a family interaction and close details of hands, feet or face. Changing framing also gives variety without moving your baby throughout the house.
If siblings participate, an adult needs to be available to accompany them outside the frame. Do not ask them to hold the baby on their own to prepare a pose; we organise supervised participation. They can be close beside an adult without everyone needing to look at the camera.
Baby-only photographs do not require complicated positions. There is no need to recreate an internet image that may rely on hidden support or special techniques; we choose what fits your baby’s wellbeing and the lifestyle approach.
What should I have ready before the photographer arrives?
Prepare outfits and baby essentials, and decide which areas you would like us to review. Tell me if a room or moment should stay out of the pictures. Being at home does not mean everything must be photographed.
Let me know how the family is feeling too. If anyone is ill or relevant care guidance needs consideration, we discuss it before the visit. You do not need to pretend you are well rested or have everything under control.
Preparation should remove tasks from photo day. Accessible spaces, everyday baby supplies nearby and a conversation beforehand let us focus on what you want to remember.
- Comfortable outfits and a spare for your baby.
- Diapers, wipes and usual feeding supplies nearby.
- A few clear areas without private documents in the background.
- An adult available to accompany siblings.
- Photograph, room and privacy preferences discussed.