How to prepare for your in-home lifestyle newborn photography session.

Welcoming a newborn is a life-changing moment—and capturing those first days at home through in-home newborn photos is one of the best ways to preserve that memory forever. Unlike studio sessions, in-home baby photo sessions offer a cozy, personal, and relaxed environment that truly reflects your family’s story.

A lot of people wonder, “Do I need Newborn Photos?”, and while it’s not a necessity, coming from a mama – it is something that is so fleeting and goes so fast. Changes occur SO quickly with small babies, their hair changes texture and colour, their little faces shift in just a week or two, and they get more alert as time goes on. The biggest reason to do lifestyle newborn photos is to also exist IN the photos, even if you don’t feel energetic or pretty, it’s just so important to show up in these memories, even when it’s the last thing that feels comfy.

Knowing what to expect for the session is probably the most helpful. For a newborn photography session at home, I’ll usually photograph in 1-2 areas of your home – somewhere with natural light and a neutral and non-cluttered backdrop. It’s not as hard as you think to prepare a space that works for photos and it can just take a few minutes to get to a photographable state (I can help!). The session itself is very go-with-the-flow, letting babe guide the pace and what we are able to capture. I’ll take a bunch of photos of baby solo (on the bed, in their crib, sitting with mom/dad), and then I’ll incorporate the parents (and siblings/fur siblings if any exist). It’s not something to worry a lot about, it is meant to be real, candid and lightly directed. Just soak in time with baby and you’re doing everything you need.

Here are a few more tips for preparing that take the pressure off on the day of (all optional):

1. Consider scheduling your session early, but know that we can flex as needed to accommodate an unpredictable birth timeline.
2. A calm baby is the key to a smooth session. Warm up the room to around 75°F (22-24°C)
3. Feed baby right before the session for a sleepy, content mood – sometimes a couple of feedings happen during the session.
4. Keep things soft and simple—neutral onesies, swaddles, cozy textures and minimal patterns look timeless in photos.
5. Don’t stress about a picture-perfect house—focus on setting up areas before baby comes if needed, such as: the nursery, the bedroom and the living room
6. For beautiful, cohesive photos, stick to soft neutrals like white, beige, gray, or light pastels. Avoid busy patterns and bold color. Bare feet also create a relaxed, at-home vibe. Coordinate your outfits instead of matching. This keeps the focus on the baby while making the family look effortlessly connected.
7. Fussing, feeding, and diaper changes are all normal and part of the experience. As an experienced newborn photographer , I am used to working on baby’s schedule and will help guide the flow of the session naturally. Candid moments—feeding, cuddling, yawns—often become the most cherished photos in your gallery.

An in-home newborn photography session is more than just cute photos—it’s a way to document your growing family in a place filled with love, meaning, and memories. It’s also ideal for new parents, offering convenience and comfort without having to leave home.

Looking for a in-home newborn photographer who captures natural, honest and timeless images? Get in touch to inquire about availability. You can find our Newborn Photography Packages here, as well as maternity, fresh 48, and first year photo packages.

Here are some of my favourite newborn shots!