When I was a new mom, I was stoked about finally getting out of the house. I also quickly learned to be prepared for anything. Leaving the house was a risky venture and a photoshoot was a lot of uncertainties. The most relaxing way to combat these stresses is to opt for an in home newborn photography session. I’m a big fan of anything easy and stress-free, so here’s some tips to add those adjectives to your newborn session.

1. Tidy parts of your home before your in home newborn photography session

This may be the worst part of in home newborn photography, but hear me out. It doesn’t have to be HGTV standard or even the whole house. Your nicest bedroom and the nursery are really the only rooms that will most likely be used or the room with the most natural light. You’ve been busy lately, so you can literally just throw things into a closet. The goal is really just a tidy home, so that random objects, toys, or clothes don’t make it into your photos. No sweeping required.

2. Consider your home décor when choosing outfits

Keep in mind that during your home photoshoot, your home will be your backdrop. I don’t know if you have heard of the red hat society, but they wear purple and red with the theory that they are too old to care about colors clashing. You have not joined the red hat society, so you do not want to be clashing with your home décor. Neutral colors are usually a safe bet because they tend to go with all colors. If you have a pretty neutral home, you could add a little pop of color. Just be mindful of your home or ask your photographer how they feel about the color combinations you’re considering.

3. Be prepared for anything

Have a burp cloth nearby. Have two or three back up outfits ready. There was one time that I finally left the house, but forgot clothes and my son totally pooped on my white shorts. I was mortified and wore a nursing cover as a skirt. Being at home this is less of a concern. You’ll have easily accessible outfits. However you don’t want to be trying to put together a whole new outfit on the spot. Coordinate two or three outfits, so you can quickly change if need be.

4. Have distractions for older siblings

A little secret about this image is that Blippi was playing on a tv behind mom. With a little photoshop magic, Blippi did not make it into the photo. His orange and blue may have been a bit distracting. The point however is not that this image has been photoshopped, but that the adorable little boy got bored with the shoot. He also needed a few bribes. Newborn photoshoots are not always fun for young siblings. Having a special toy or treat or activity that they normally wouldn’t get or wouldn’t get as much of makes it more exciting for them and a more positive experience. They’ll be excited to participate.

5. Don’t adjust baby’s schedule for in home newborn photography

A sleeping baby is not bad for photos. Photographers are flexible and will adjust poses to match baby’s sleep schedule. This makes for a much happier baby when their schedule hasn’t been changed. You’re in a beautiful position in which the true beauty of your daily life and the beauty of your new baby will be highlighted in the most natural way possible… in your own home. The authenticity that will unfold by your baby’s natural behavior and schedule will be absolutely stunning. If you want your baby awake or sleeping schedule your session around your baby’s schedule, but try your very best to not change your baby’s schedule.

6. Timing – plan your session for the best light

Indoors is far more forgiving than the outdoors because the light is more easy to control, but there is a best time for photos. Late morning and early afternoon tend to have the best natural light. This is because the light is entering in the house at an higher angle compared to early morning and late afternoon when the sun is lower in the sky or at high noon when the light isn’t angling into the house at all. That being said between late morning and early afternoon, around lunch time, is the next best time to schedule your session.

Lifestyle in home sessions are my favorite type of newborn sessions. Comfort and being able to get ready at the very last minute was my love language as a new mom and especially as a second time mom with a toddler in tow.

If you are interested in learning more or looking for in home newborn photography in the St Louis area and beyond, I’m happy to help you with that too!

Congratulations on your new addition!

With Love,

-Juniper and Oak