How To Prepare for In-Home Newborns

Houston Newborn Photographer

Ashley Newman Photography

My clients tell me all the time that having their newborn session in their home was so much easier than they imagined. It’s comfortable, it’s familiar, and you don’t have to go anywhere!
Whether you are trying to limit outings for your baby, you just had major surgery, you genuinely don’t want to pack up and travel to a studio, or have other special circumstances, it’s a wonderful way to document your journey.

Check out a few of my favorite tips for how to get ready for your in-home newborn session.

• Looking for light- Occasionally we may need to move furniture or other items around to make room/reduce clutter. Make sure you clear any rooms of clutter that you want to highlight in the photos (nursery/your bedroom/living room/etc). I may also want to walk through your house to find special baby items or other locations to use.

• Please make sure to turn the heat up in your house.

• To prepare for our session, you won’t have to do much- just be yourself. I will help you guys use the space in your home to document this first week with your newborn. I don’t pose, but I will direct and guide you into different positions. Don’t worry- I got you!

• Try to keep baby awake for a while before your session time. Wait to feed the baby until I arrive for your session.

• Embrace that peel, fresh newborn skin!

• I may ask for help with propping or holding the baby in certain positions. Please understand that not every pose you imagined may be possible- it all depends on baby. I want to make sure baby is comfortable and safe above all else.

• One last thing….No matter what your baby does, please know that I am always relaxed. If we need to take a break to feed, walk, rock, etc. we can do that. I want you to enjoy the experience of your session and this special bonding moment for your family.