How to Prepare for Your In Home Newborn Session

Bringing your baby home is such a whirlwind of sweet snuggles, sleepy stretches, and figuring out a new rhythm together. That’s why I love when families choose an in home newborn session. It’s cozy, relaxed, and takes place right where your memories are already unfolding.

Instead of rushing to a studio or packing up all the things, an in-home newborn session lets you stay right where you’re most comfortable. 

We’ll photograph in the rooms where you spend most of your time – your living room, the nursery, maybe even your bed (if there’s good light). It’s all about capturing this season as it really is.

In this post, I’m sharing my go-to tips for preparing for your at-home newborn session, so you feel confident, relaxed, and fully present when the day comes.

Why Choose an In-Home Newborn Session?

Both at-home and studio newborn sessions can be beautiful. But there’s something so special about documenting this season in your own space. Here’s why I personally love an in-home newborn session, and why so many families do too:

Comfort for You and Baby

One of the biggest perks of an in-home newborn session is that you don’t have to go anywhere. 

No packing the diaper bag, no driving across town, no stress. You get to stay cozy in your own space, and your baby does too. 

Feedings, diaper changes, outfit swaps – it’s all easier (and calmer) at home.

Your Real Life Becomes the Backdrop

The beauty of an in-home lifestyle newborn session is that it celebrates your life, not a styled version of it. 

We’ll photograph in the nursery you lovingly set up, on the couch where you’ve shared a million snuggles, or in the room with the best natural light. 

These are the details you’ll want to remember later, and they’ll make your newborn photos feel extra personal.

Connection Over Perfection

You don’t need props, poses, or Pinterest-perfect setups. 

What really matters during an in-home newborn lifestyle session is the connection between you and your baby. 

The way you look at them, hold them, breathe them in. These sessions are all about real moments and the kind of images that make you feel something every time you look back at them.

How to Prepare Your Home for Your In-Home Newborn Lifestyle Session

Before your session, I know it’s easy to feel like your house needs to look perfect. But I promise, it doesn’t. 

Your home is already full of love and that’s what I’m here to capture. 

But to make the most of your space without adding any stress, here are some of my best tips, as a Minneapolis photographer, for an in-home newborn session:

Lighting

When I do an at-home newborn session, I’ll mostly focus on using natural light. So, we’ll stick to the rooms that get the best glow!

Usually that’s your living room, nursery, or bedroom. 

When I arrive at your home, I’ll open up blinds and curtains to let in as much light as possible.

No Need to Deep Clean

Please don’t go on a cleaning spree the night before! You only need to tidy up the rooms we’ll be shooting in. 

That might just mean making the bed, clearing off nightstands, or tucking a few toys or burp cloths into a basket nearby. A little goes a long way.

Keep Things Comfortable

If there are items that make you feel relaxed, like a favorite throw blanket, a cozy robe, or the swaddle your baby loves most, keep them nearby. 

Doing an in-home newborn session is all about being at ease, and those everyday details make photos even more meaningful.

Check out these tips on preparing your toddler for a newborn session.

What to Wear for Your In-Home Newborn Session

I totally get it – figuring out what to wear can feel like the hardest part. But don’t worry, this doesn’t need to be complicated. 

For your at-home newborn session, the goal is to keep things simple, soft, and true to your style.

Keep It Neutral and Comfortable

Light neutrals, soft pastels, and earthy tones photograph beautifully, and they help keep the focus on your connection. 

For your in-home newborn session, think cozy over fancy. Flowy dresses, knit sweaters, or a comfy button-up for dad are always great choices. 

No need for shoes. Barefoot is totally fine (and often cuter!).

Dress Baby in Something Simple

A well-loved swaddle, a soft onesie, or just a diaper cover works perfectly. 

Babies photograph best when they’re comfortable, so skip anything stiff or fussy. Layers are great to have on hand in case we want to change things up during the session.

Coordinate, Don’t Match

Choose colors that complement each other, but don’t stress about being too matchy-matchy. 

Avoid bold patterns or bright logos that could distract in photos. If siblings are involved, aim for similar tones, and remember, I’m always happy to help you pull everything together before your in-home newborn lifestyle session.

Timing & What to Expect During Your Newborn Home Session

Every baby is different, and the beauty of an in-home newborn session is that we get to go with the flow. 

These sessions are relaxed, flexible, and totally baby-led, which means no pressure or rush.

When to Schedule Your In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Session

Most families book their in-home lifestyle newborn session within the first 2–3 weeks after their baby arrives. 

This timing is great since most babies are still extra sleepy and snuggly at this age.

But honestly? There’s no wrong time. Whether your baby is 7 days or 7 weeks old, the goal is to capture this season as it is right now.

The Session Will Be Baby-Led

During your in-home newborn lifestyle session, we’ll pause whenever we need to. Don’t worry about feedings, diaper changes, extra cuddles, or just a reset. 

Sessions typically last 60-90 minutes, but I always build in extra time so we never feel rushed. If your baby needs a break, we take it.

It’s All About Real Moments

A newborn photography home session is meant to feel natural and real. It’s not about posing your baby in baskets or complicated setups. 

You feeding your baby in the rocking chair, holding them in bed, or soaking up all their goodness make the perfect shots. 

The Heart Behind Your In-Home Newborn Session

Those first few weeks after your baby is born go by in such a blur. The sleepy snuggles, the soft baby breaths, the quiet little routines that fill your home with love. That’s exactly why I believe so deeply in the power of an in-home newborn session.

There’s something incredibly special about documenting this chapter in the space where you’re living it. An in-home lifestyle newborn session lets you freeze time in a way that’s honest, natural, and completely unique to your family.

If you’re feeling excited (or even a little nervous!) about planning your newborn photography session at home, I’m here to help every step of the way. Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get your in-home newborn session on the calendar, reach out to learn more about newborn photography!

You can also find more session tips, behind-the-scenes peeks, and everyday moments over on Instagram or Facebook.