I love that I get to photograph in home newborn sessions! Don’t get me wrong…I do love those perfect studio photos of the newborn all perfectly wrapped up with a bonnet but there is something so genuine and sweet about capturing that little newborn in their home where the long nights, laughs, tears and milestones are happening.
Here are some of my tips and tricks to set you up for the best in home newborn session experience :)
Tip #1- DON’T STRESS!
Is your newborn being fussy that day? Don’t stress! Did your 2 year old choose that day of all days to skip a nap? Don’t stress! The reason newborn sessions are two hours long is so we have time for snack breaks and time to do what we need to keep the babies happy. Not only have I been photographing newborns for years but I worked in early childhood education for years and I have a baby of my own! Needless to say, I know babies very well and there isn’t much I haven’t handled. So while I’m focusing on photos of your newborn feel free to go take a nap or eat a snack and let me take care of the rest :)
Tip #2- Declutter
The two main spaces we will be using will be the nursery and your bedroom. We want these ares to basically look like you are showing your home so that means making sure your end tables are free from tissue boxes and burp clothes and making the bed. Make sure that the nursery is photo ready by removing the diaper pale and anything you wouldn’t want in the background of photos. Not sure what to remove or don’t have the time? Not a problem, just let me know and I can rearrange as needed. One last touch that I always love is a vase of fresh flowers to work with. There is something about having flowers that really elevates any space!
Tip #3- Turn up the heat!
Or at least turn the AC down. Babies tend to sleep better when it is a little warmer in the house…especially when we are getting them undressed for certain photos. Definitely don’t smoke out the whole family but I would keep it 5-7 degrees warmer than you typically do.
Tip #4- Choose outfits ahead of time-but be selective
It’s great to have a couple options for bows are onesies that you like but 2-3 is about the max you will need or want. Anymore then that makes the baby a little fussy by the end with all the changing and is a lot to fit in. I would also keep it as simple as possible with neutral colors and simple onesies. The focus of the session is on your baby…and they are already so perfect and cute on their own! We don’t want to distract from that :)
Tip #5- Feed your baby right before I arrive. I would start feeding baby about 10 minutes before our scheduled session time. It’s okay if you are still feeding when I arrive. I will take 10 minutes to get lighting a gear set up and to look around. This way their tummies are full and they are milk drunk and ready for their first of many photo sessions :)
I hope these tips help you feel more ready for your in home newborn session! Of course, if you have any other questions don’t hesitate to reach out. I am here to help!