How to Prepare for a Relaxed Newborn Session at Your Home

Dreaming of a cosy, at-home newborn photoshoot but worried your house isn’t “Instagram-perfect”? Don’t stress, I’ve got you covered. Here’s a little secret: photographers like me are experts at finding the best angles and making any home look incredible. What you don’t see behind the camera is the magic we work! I’ve been doing this for years, and I’ve never had a home that couldn’t provide beautiful photos. The only thing that matters is what’s in the frame, so let’s focus on that and leave the stress behind.

Ready to get started? Here are my top tips for prepping your home for a newborn session without overdoing it.

 

Ask for Advice

If you’re feeling unsure about certain rooms, don’t hesitate to ask for my advice. I once had a mom worried that her bedroom wasn’t photogenic enough for the shoot. After she sent me a few pictures, the only thing I suggested was adding some curtain panels, and voilà! The room was perfect.

You’ll probably only need a few spots for the session, usually the nursery, living room, and parents’ bedroom. And guess what? We can get a lot of variety just by switching up angles and using different spots within those rooms. So before you head on a shopping spree or stress over redecorating, snap a couple of pics and let’s chat.

 

Tidy Up, But Don’t Go Overboard

Don’t worry about deep-cleaning your whole house. Focus on clearing out clutter in the rooms we’ll be using. Little things make a big difference, like:

  • Clearing off nightstands and end tables—keep artwork or frames you love, but hide the receipts and pacifiers!
  • Put away things like the baby monitor or diaper caddy, just to keep the look clean and simple.
  • Use neutral bedding, like a cream or white comforter, for a fresh, calm backdrop. If your regular comforter is a bit bold, flip it over or use a simple sheet.

And seriously don’t stress about dishes in the sink or dusty floors. None of that will be in the photos, and no one is judging.

 

Lights Off, Natural Light On

I love using natural light in my photos, so you don’t need to worry about having a super bright, airy home. Whether it’s a sun-filled window or a cosy hallway, I’ll find the best light. To help, just turn off any lamps or overhead lights before I arrive, and open up the blinds. If you’re feeling extra organized, unplug lamps and tuck away any visible cords to keep everything clean and clutter-free.

 

Turn Up the Heat

Babies love to be warm and cosy, especially during a newborn session where they might be swaddled or posed without clothes. To keep your little one comfortable, it’s a great idea to turn up the heat in the room we’ll be using. A small space heater works wonders, especially in smaller rooms. Keeping the room nice and toasty ensures your baby stays relaxed and happy throughout the shoot, making those cute, sleepy poses much easier to capture.

 

Prepping Your Baby for the Newborn Session

I totally get that adjusting your baby’s schedule is no easy feat, but ideally, we’d love for your little one to be ready to snooze when I arrive. Contrary to what some parents think, we actually want a sleeping baby during most of the session. If you can, try to gently stimulate your baby and keep them awake for about an hour or two before the session. A warm bath is perfect for this, it keeps them alert while helping them wind down, ready for a nice deep sleep during the session. Talking to and interacting with them while they’re in a diaper can also keep them gently engaged.

Feeding your baby right before we begin is key. A full belly usually means a happy, sleepy baby who’s ready to snuggle into cosy poses. Feeding as much as possible in the 12 hours leading up to the session also helps your little one settle into a deep, restful sleep, making transitions between setups smoother and creating the best possible experience for both of you.

Having a bottle or pacifier on hand can work wonders in soothing them between poses. Even if they’re not hungry, sometimes a quick suck is all they need to settle. I clean and sanitize everything before the session, so it’s all safe to use. If you’re a nursing mom and feel comfortable, we can also capture some sweet nursing moments whatever works best for you, and your comfort is always my priority!

 

What to Wear for Your Newborn Session

Neutrals are a fantastic choice. We want your newborn to be the star, but mom’s outfit matters too. Soft fabrics, flowy dresses, or tops with textures not only look beautiful but offer comfort after delivery. Instead of matching colors, try coordinating tones that complement each other. Florals can also be a lovely choice for mom, and while black is slimming, I recommend lighter shades for a fresh look. If you’re nursing, make sure your outfit allows for easy access.

Lastly, if there’s a personal touch you’d like to include, like an heirloom blanket or a special gift, bring it along! These meaningful details make your photos even more special.

 

Preparing Yourself

Preparing for a newborn photoshoot can be a little overwhelming, but it’s also a great opportunity to ask for help. If possible, ask family members to assist with getting your baby ready. Maybe they can give the baby a soothing bath to settle them while you take some time to focus on yourself. This gives you a moment to do your hair and makeup, so you can feel refreshed and confident for the session. It’s all about making things easier for you, so you can enjoy the experience and create beautiful memories.

 

Make it a Family Affair

Don’t forget, a newborn session is the perfect time to include the whole family even your pets. Capturing moments with siblings, grandparents, and furry family members can add extra love and personality to your photos. Pets often bring a fun and playful element, and I’m more than happy to incorporate them into the session. Whether it’s a sibling cuddling up next to the baby or your dog lying by your feet, these shots create meaningful family memories that will be cherished for years to come. Let’s make it a full family affair.

 

Let’s Get Creative!

On the day of the session, we’re going to have fun and get creative. I might move furniture around a little to find the best angles, like sliding the crib closer to a window or swivelling the rocking chair to hide some background clutter. I’ve even used unexpected spots like the kitchen or hallway to get some of the best shots.

Bottom line: Your home is perfect just the way it is. Don’t let social media perfectionism get in the way of your dream newborn shoot. This time is all about you, your baby, and your family’s unique story. Let’s capture those cosy, cuddly moments in the place you call home because that’s where the best memories are made.