Essential Tips Every Parent Should Know For Your Baby’s First Photo Session
As a soon to be parent, you’re going through a whirlwind of emotions and changes—and scheduling an at home newborn photography session might feel like one more thing on your already long list. But here’s the good news: there’s absolutely no pressure to rush into your newborn photos right after birth. In fact, I encourage you to wait until you’re ready.
In those first few weeks, you’re bonding with your baby, healing from a major life event, and finding your new rhythm as a family. That’s what’s most important. When you’re ready for your newborn session, I want it to feel like a relaxed, meaningful experience that truly reflects this new chapter in your life—not something forced or rushed. This guide is designed to give you all the information you need to ensure your first at home newborn photography session is beautiful, stress-free, and enjoyable.
When to Schedule Your Newborn Session
I know there’s a lot of talk about needing to schedule a newborn session within the first two weeks. But let me tell you, that’s not necessary. When we have your consultation call during your second trimester, we’ll place a hold on the calendar for around two weeks after your due date. This is just a placeholder. When your baby arrives, you can text me and let me know how you’re feeling. Some families are ready right away, but others wait until their baby is one or even two months old—and that’s perfectly fine.
The key thing to remember is that there’s no rush. Babies are beautiful at every stage, and it’s more important to capture the early days when you feel comfortable and settled. Whether we schedule the session at two weeks or two months, we’ll create something meaningful that reflects your family.
For more details on when to schedule your session and why it’s okay to wait, check out my blog on When to Schedule Your Newborn Session.
Preparing Your Home and Space
Preparing your home for your at home newborn photography session doesn’t have to be stressful. I recommend choosing 1 or 2 rooms where we will do the majority of the session. Most families choose a common living space, and a bedroom or nursery. While we can use more than two rooms, it’s usually not necessary. The most important factor when choosing the rooms is natural light—look for the spaces with the largest windows.
If your home or apartment doesn’t have large windows, don’t worry! I’ve photographed sessions in tiny San Francisco apartments with just one small window, as well as sprawling great rooms with entire walls of windows. Whether you’re in Walnut Creek, San Francisco, or somewhere else in the Bay Area, we’ll make your home work beautifully. While lighting is important, your connection with your baby is what matters most.
Pro Tip: A week before your session, take a look around your home at 10:30 a.m. (the time we’ll be doing your session) and notice which rooms have the best natural light. Ideally, those will be the rooms we use. If you’d like more tips on preparing your space, you can read my full blog on How to Prepare Your Home for In-Home Newborn Sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Space
What if it’s overcast and the light is less?
No problem! I’ve worked in a variety of lighting conditions, and I can adjust my camera settings and use my experience to work with any lighting scenario. Even in low light, we’ll create beautiful, intimate images with natural light.
What if we live in a small apartment and don’t have a nursery or bedroom that works for photos?
That’s totally okay! We can still get a variety of beautiful newborn photos at home with your family, even if we use just one room. I’ve photographed an entire session in an 8×6 bedroom/office, and the gallery turned out stunning. We’ll work with the space you have and make it special.
What to Do Before I Arrive for Your At Home Newborn Photography Session
On the day of the session, I want you to take your time getting ready. The goal is to feel relaxed and prepared before I arrive. Here’s a suggested flow for your morning:
- Partner First: Have your partner get ready first but wait to put on their final outfit until right before I arrive. While you’re getting ready, they can take care of the baby.
- Your Turn: While your partner looks after the baby, it’s your time to get ready. Whether you like to do your hair and makeup or go for a more natural look, it’s entirely up to you. A full face of makeup or perfect hair isn’t necessary for beautiful photos, but it can help you feel more settled and put together.
- Cleaning up your Space: If possible, ask a friend or family member to come by before the session to help tidy up and get things in order.
- Baby Last: Once you’re ready, focus on getting the baby prepared. I recommend feeding and changing your baby about 30 minutes before I arrive so they’re fed and content. Wait to put them in their final outfit until I arrive to avoid any spit-up accidents.
- Outfit Backups: Have an extra outfit for yourself, your partner, and the baby on hand. Knowing you have a backup will help reduce any stress if there’s a mishap during the session.
Session Flow: What to Expect
The session flow is important because it allows for a variety of images in your gallery. We typically start around 10:30 a.m., but there’s no strict schedule—we finish when we’re done.
We begin with capturing the whole family, which includes each parent holding the baby. I take photos from different angles—some from a distance, and some up close. Don’t be surprised if I ask to stand on your furniture or get up close for certain shots! I might be in some strange positions, but that’s what creates those intimate, beautiful images.
Next, we move on to solo parent shots, focusing on your unique connection with your baby. I’ll suggest a variety of holds, but rest assured, I will never put your baby in an unsafe position. If you’re uncomfortable with a particular pose or hold, you can always speak up, and I’ll adjust. I’m also very aware of moms’ healing needs—if sitting or standing in certain positions is uncomfortable, we’ll find alternatives.
Finally, we capture solo images of your baby. For these, your baby will always be in a safe position—either lying on their back or side, or supported by a pillow. You’ll be right next to them, ready to soothe or pick them up if needed. I use soothing techniques to keep your baby calm, but I never use anything unsafe, and I always ask your permission before holding your baby or adjusting them.
For more on the must-have images I capture during every session, check out my blog on the 5 Must-Have Images for Newborn Lifestyle Photography
Incorporating other family members is something I love to do with newborn sessions, this might include grandparents or siblings or even pets. I share more about this in these blogs:
Including Your Furry Friends in your Newborn Photo Session
Multigenerational Newborn Sessions
Handling Your Baby’s Needs During The Photo Session
It’s completely normal for babies to get fussy during the session, and that’s okay. We take the session at your baby’s pace, which means plenty of time for feeding, swaddling, or soothing. I’ve worked with newborns for over six years, so I have a few tricks up my sleeve to help soothe your baby. But ultimately, your instincts will kick-in and you will know what is best for your baby. I follow your lead on soothing and comfort throughout the session.
Your baby’s comfort is my priority. Most of the session will involve your baby being right where they belong—in your arms or your partner’s. If your baby gets uncomfortable during solo shots, we stop right away. There’s no pressure to push through; we’ll simply adjust to what feels right in the moment.
Breastfeeding or Bottle-Feeding During the Session
Feeding your baby during the session is perfectly normal and encouraged! Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, these moments can make for beautiful, intimate photos that show the bond between you and your baby. I’ll always ask for your consent before capturing these moments, and if you prefer not to include them in the session, that’s okay too.
We can also take breaks as needed for feeding—your baby’s comfort comes first, and a well-fed baby is usually a much more content baby. Whether you decide to include feeding photos or not, the choice is entirely yours, and we’ll work at a pace that makes everyone feel comfortable.
What to Wear and What to Include for Your In-Home Session
Keep things simple! For the baby, a basic white onesie and one other outfit are perfect. I also recommend having a neutral swaddle on hand—no velcro or zipper swaddles, as we want to use something soft and flexible. Hats and bows are optional, but keep in mind they can slip off easily, so we may not use them for the entire session.
New moms often feel their best in something flowy and light. I recommend lighter, neutral-colored outfits because they not only help you feel comfortable but also reflect soft, flattering light onto your baby’s skin when you’re holding them. The same goes for your partner—keep it neutral and avoid dark colors, green, or red, as they can affect the overall lighting and tone of the photos. You deserve to feel beautiful, so whether that means taking a few extra minutes to get ready or choosing cozy PJs, we’ll make it work for you.
If there are any sentimental items or props you’d like to include—such as a special blanket, stuffed animal, or heirloom—please lay them out beforehand. I usually incorporate these during the baby’s solo shots to make sure they shine.
For more inspiration on baby outfits and props, you can find helpful tips in my Newborn Photo Outfits blog.
Budgeting for At Home Newborn Photography
At home newborn photography is an investment in memories, and it’s something that can be cherished for a lifetime. If you’re concerned about budget, here’s a helpful tip: consider adding your newborn session to your baby registry or as a gift idea for your baby shower. Many friends and family members are excited to contribute to meaningful gifts that go beyond traditional items, and your newborn session is a beautiful way for them to celebrate this special time with you.
Remember, these photos are more than just images—they’re a celebration of your motherhood journey, from pregnancy through the first year of your baby’s life. Documenting these moments with an in-home newborn session preserves memories that you’ll cherish forever.
What Happens After the Session
I know you’ll be excited to see your photos, so I make sure to deliver sneak peeks within one business day! It’s a little taste of what we created together before you receive your full gallery. Your full set of images will be ready within four weeks, delivered through a digital portal where you can download all the high-resolution files.
If you’ve booked one of my special collections, like the Motherhood Collection or Maternity & Newborn Collection, you’ll also receive a complimentary album. I’ll send you a questionnaire so you can choose your favorite images and select your album cover, and then I’ll design the album for you. This is a special keepsake that you’ll treasure for years to come.
Quick Tips for Your At Home Newborn Photography Session
- Scheduling: You don’t need to schedule within the first two weeks. It’s okay to wait until you and your baby are ready.
- Preparing Your Home: Choose 1-2 rooms with the best natural light. Don’t stress about tidying up the entire house.
- Getting Ready: Take your time in the morning. Feed and change the baby about 30 minutes before I arrive, and have a backup outfit for everyone.
- Session Flow: We start with family shots, move to individual parent shots, and finish with solo shots of the baby. There’s no rush.
- Feeding During the Session: Feeding your baby is natural and can make for beautiful, candid images. We’ll go at your baby’s pace.
- Outfits: Keep baby outfits simple—neutral colors, a white onesie, and a swaddle. Backup outfits are key for everyone.
- Budget: Add your at home newborn photography session or Motherhood Collection to your baby registry or ask for it as a shower gift. It’s a great way to celebrate the first year of motherhood.
Conclusion
My goal as your newborn photographer is to make this experience as relaxed and meaningful as possible. Whether you’re in Walnut Creek, San Francisco or elsewhere in the Bay Area, there’s no rush to schedule the session, no need to worry about your home being picture-perfect, and no pressure to be anything other than yourselves. When your baby arrives, we’ll capture these moments that matter most—authentically, beautifully, and without stress.
If you’re ready to book your at home newborn photography session, or if you’d like more guidance on preparing for your session, I’ve created a free checklist to help you get your home and family ready for a relaxed, in-home experience. Download the checklist here or get in touch today to schedule a call and start planning your newborn session. Let’s make sure these fleeting moments are captured in a way that feels natural and effortless for your family.
