Bringing your baby home is pure magic — but let’s be real: it’s also a whirlwind of cuddles, coffee, and endless baby snuggles. The last thing you need to stress about is how to prepare for your in-home newborn session. Deep breath — perfection is not required here!

Home Prep: How to Prepare Your House for an In-Home Newborn Session

Choose 2–3 tidy spots:

Before your session day, we’ll pick 2–3 spots in your home where we’ll focus most of your newborn photos — usually the living room, nursery, and sometimes your master bedroom. These areas often have the best natural light for an in-home newborn session and create a cozy, meaningful backdrop.

Keep it tidy but realistic:

Tidy these areas just enough to reduce clutter in the background. No need for a deep clean — I’m happy to move things around if needed.

Add fresh flowers:

A simple vase of fresh flowers on a coffee table or nightstand adds a pop of color and freshness to your in-home newborn photos.

Warm it up:

Set your thermostat to about 75°F before I arrive. A warm, cozy home helps your newborn feel calm and sleepy for the session.

Baby Prep: How to Get Your Baby Ready for an In-Home Newborn Session

Feed your baby beforehand:

About 15–20 minutes before our session, give your newborn a full feed. A milk-drunk, sleepy baby is the secret to those sweet, peaceful photos everyone loves.

Pick simple outfits:

I’ll bring a few neutral-colored onesies and wraps, but if you have a special newborn outfit, have it ready — personal touches are always welcome!

Gather keepsakes:

Have any special items you’d like in your in-home newborn photos — like a name tag, birth stats sign, heirloom blanket, or tiny stuffed animal — ready to go.

Mom’s Prep: How to Feel Your Best for Your In-Home Newborn Session

Hair & makeup tips:

If you’d like professional hair and makeup, book your appointment to start about two hours before our session so you’re ready when I arrive. I have trusted makeup artists I can recommend!

Prefer to DIY? Go for a natural, fresh look: light foundation or concealer, a touch of blush, and mascara. Skip dark eyeshadows — softer looks photograph best. For hair, a blowout or loose waves always look timeless.

What to wear:

You’re welcome to wear one of the beautiful dresses from my client closet — they’re chosen to flatter and photograph beautifully. If you prefer your own outfit, neutrals or soft muted tones are best for in-home newborn photos.

Barefoot is best:

Most of the time, parents are barefoot in newborn photos. It feels cozy and natural — I recommend skipping socks for your session.

Remember This For Your Newborn Session:

You don’t need to have everything perfect — that’s my job! I’ll guide you through each step so you can relax, soak in these sweet newborn days, and focus on what really matters: loving on your baby.

Have questions about how to prepare for your in-home newborn session? I’m always just a message away! 💛✨