5 Tips to Prepare for a Newborn Session in Your Home

Taking pictures of your newborn in the room where you are creating your new life together has a very special and sentimental quality. In-home newborn sessions are relaxed, deeply personal, and full of honest, love-soaked moments. Whether you’re cuddled up on the couch or rocking your baby in the nursery, these sessions beautifully reflect your everyday life, just as it is right now.

You don’t need a perfect house or a picture-perfect routine. You just need to be together. That said, a little bit of thoughtful prep can go a long way in helping you feel calm and present on the day of your session. Here are five gentle tips to help you prepare.

Table of Contents

• Let the Light In
• Tidy Lightly, But Don’t Deep Clean
• Choose Soft, Neutral Outfits
• Feed & Soothe Right Before I Arrive
• Expect a Gentle, Unrushed Flow
• Final Thoughts

1. Let the Light In

Natural light is one of the most important elements for in-home newborn session. On the morning of our session, try to open the blinds and curtains in the main living areas, nursery, and primary bedroom. This helps me find the best spots in your home where the light is soft and flattering.

Don’t worry if your space isn’t flooded with sunshine. I have supplemental lighting I will bring that will enhance the natural light in your home to still give you that natural light look. I’ll guide us to the right spots once I arrive.

2. Tidy Lightly, But Don’t Deep Clean

You absolutely don’t need to clean your entire house. In fact, I encourage you to not stress about it. Just focus on tidying up the areas we’ll likely use, like the couch, your bed, or the nursery. Tuck away any distracting items like cluttered nightstands or laundry baskets.

This newborn session is about your connection, not your countertops. A few clean, cozy corners are all we need.

3. Choose Soft, Neutral Outfits

Just like in studio sessions, I recommend sticking to soft, neutral tones that complement your home and keep the focus on your family. Creams, grays, soft blues, and muted earth tones all photograph beautifully indoors.

For moms, think comfortable and flattering, like a flowy dress, a knit sweater, or some silk pant. You are also welcome to borrow from my feminine client wardrobe, I’ll show you your options prior to our session and can bring 4-5 options to your home for you to try on the day of your session.For dads, simple t-shirts or henleys paired with khakis or light-colored jeanswork well. And for baby, I’ll bring along some wraps that we can use to wrap baby up. 

4. Feed & Soothe Right Before I Arrive

A full, cozy baby is a happy baby. Try to time a feeding right before (or as I arrive) so your little one is sleepy and content. But of course, if your baby is hungry, fussy, or needs a break during the session, we’ll pause. Newborn session are entirely baby-led, and there’s no rush or pressure.

I’ll build in time for feedings, diaper changes, and anything else your baby needs. It’s all part of the rhythm of this season.

5. Expect a Gentle, Unrushed Flow

One of the best parts of in-home newborn session is how natural they feel. You’re already in your own space. You can wear something cozy, snuggle in your own bed, and take breaks whenever needed. We’ll move slowly and let the moments unfold.

Some of my favorite images from in-home sessions are the quiet, unscripted ones – your partner kissing your baby’s head, your toddler peeking over the bassinet, or you rocking your little one in the same chair you’ll use every day. These are the memories worth keeping.

Final Thoughts

A “perfect” newborn session doesn’t exist, especially when it takes place at home. What matters most is documenting the love, the details, and the tiny, fleeting moments that are already slipping by faster than you imagined.

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed in-home newborn session to document your baby’s first days, contact me today. 

In-Studio vs. Outdoor Sessions: Choosing the Perfect Setting for Your Photoshoot
Top 5 Portland Baby Boutiques in the Metro Area
Preparing For Your Newborn Photography Session