How to Prepare Your Home for an In-Home Newborn Session
The sweetest Newborn session I did in home.
Bringing a new baby home is beautiful and a little overwhelming. Between feedings, diaper changes, and very little sleep, the idea of “getting your house ready” for photos might feel stressful.
Take a deep breath, your home does not need to be perfect.
In-home newborn sessions are meant to feel natural, relaxed, and low-keyl. The goal isn’t to create a pinterest home, it’s to capture your family exactly as you are in these first early days.
Here’s how to prepare (without overthinking it).
—> Focus on Light, Not Perfection
The most important element in your home is natural light.
Before I arrive: open all blinds and curtains, turn off overhead lights and lamps (natural light photographs best) clear space near the largest windows in your home.
Don’t worry if your home isn’t huge or ultra-modern. Beautiful images can happen in even the smallest spaces when the light is right.
—> Warm Up the House
Newborns are the happiest when they’re warm and cozy. Think about it, they just came from an environment of 98 degrees. About 30 minutes before I arrive, turn the heat up slightly (especially in winter), dress baby in a simple diaper and swaddle or loose outfit to avoid clothing marks on the skin. You could even leave them out of the clothing if you want some nakey shots.
A warm baby is a sleepy baby and sleepy babies photograph wonderfully.
—> Dress Comfortable & Simple
Neutral tones always photograph beautifully. Creams, soft grays, muted pastels, earthy tones. For moms: flowy dresses soft sweaters, comfortable loungewear, bare feet. Just something that feels comfortable. We are going for cozy.
For baby: a simple swaddle, a neutral onesie, or just a diaper for those sweet, timeless skin-to-skin moments.
Most importantly: wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. The other members of the house, same sort of style. Simple and comfortable.
—> Tidy the Key Areas Only
You do not need to deep clean your entire house.
I typically photograph in the nursery, the master bedroom the living room, and sometimes in a hallway if the light allows it. To be honest, you don’t need to clean anything, I am happy to do it but if you feel the need to here’s some ideas. You could clear nightstands and dressers of clutter, put away laundry baskets remove visible cords or distracting items, make the bed with neutral bedding if possible.
That’s it. If a room has good light and a calm feel, it will photograph beautifully.
—> Keep Out Details or things you’d like to include
You should remember, this is your story and how life was at this exact moment in time. It’s not a staged set. Here’s some items you could consider setting aside: a blanket, an heirloom, handmade quilt, a birth announcement. Little details matter when it comes to photographing your baby.
—> Don’t Stress About Siblings
They are a big part of the story. I welcome their curiosity around their new sibling. The best sibling shots happen organically. We will try to find a time where they’re the happiest. Explain to them that someone is coming over to take some photos of them and the new baby. Keep snacks on hand if they’re toddlers.
Looking for Newborn Photography in Sheridan, Wyoming?
If you're expecting and searching for a Sheridan Wyoming newborn photographer, I would be honored to document this chapter for your family.
In-home newborn sessions are relaxed, baby-led, and focused on connection. These early days pass quickly — but your photographs will allow you to relive them for years to come.
If you’re ready to book your newborn photography session, reach out here to reserve your due date.
