Thinking of booking an in-home newborn session instead of a traditional posed in-studio session? Then this post is for you! 

I absolutely love in-home sessions for a variety of reasons. 

First and foremost, when you shoot at home, you’ll get that cozy, homey feeling in the photos. As this is your personal space, it is easier to see the deep connection between baby and family that has already developed in the short time you’ve spent together.

Another reason I love in-home newborn sessions is because many parents feel more comfortable and relaxed in their home environment, allowing for the natural moments to be captured on camera. 

Part of that comfort is because some new parents like the idea of not having to leave the home within the first couple weeks after their new little one is born. Also, staying at home is a great way to incorporate older children, pets, and even grandparents into your newborn photoshoot, eliminating the need to coordinate getting everyone to the studio. 

Here are a few things that you should consider before choosing to have an in-home lifestyle newborn session: 

Does your home have adequate natural light?

As you can see in these photos from this cozy, in-home newborn session, this home in South Boston had the most gorgeous bay window seat with dreamy natural light coming in. As a newborn photographer, I always bring a studio light setup to use if necessary, but I find that natural light always produces the best results. 

Is your home ready for an in-home session? 

Have you completed your nursery? Do you have a place for me to shoot? Not everyone has a picture perfect home and that is ok! But for in-home photos the more put together and complete your home looks, the easier it will be to shoot and the better your session will come out.

Is your home decor fairly neutral?

Also, a fairly neutral and cohesive color palette is definitely preferred as it lends itself well to a newborn photo session. This home was beautifully designed in muted tones and it was so easy to shoot in their completed nursery. 

While there are many advantages to an in-home session, I would be remiss as a newborn photographer if I didn’t mention the downsides because while some people prefer staying at home for their newborn photos, the opposite can also be true. 

Are you willing/able to clean up your home?

Many new parents feel anxious and overwhelmed with the idea of having to tidy up after just having a baby. Not only is mom still healing and everyone may be exhausted from the lack of sleep, we know how much mess these little ones can generate! Sometimes it’s just easier to let the mess be and choose to head to the studio for your session.

Do you have the props and outfits at home for a newborn session?

I always bring a simple blanket backdrop and a selection of swaddles to my in-home newborn sessions. But if you are looking for more options when it comes to props, setups, and outfits, you’ll have access to my extensive collection if you decide on an in-studio session. 

Will an in-home session fulfill your shoot goals?

Think about whether you prefer that cozy, in-home, lifestyle feel or if you would rather have photos that are more posed. As part of your in-home session I take a selection of simple images of baby alone as well as with the parents, but if you are hoping for traditional portraits then I would suggest booking a studio newborn session. Click here to see a recent example of my in-studio work. 

If you are in the Boston area and you’re looking to book your in-home newborn session, or if you’d prefer to schedule something at my studio, make sure you check out my newborn photo session services and then get in touch with me so we can chat!