Photographing families in the comfort of their own home is something I am so passionate about. Your home is the “heart” of your family, the place where you will spend most of your time together. It is the place where we are free to be ourselves and relax. When welcoming a new baby to your home, it’s so special to capture that time with a at-home newborn session.
Every home is different and unique. The personal touches of your home tell the story of your life. The decor you choose, the furniture you rest on, and then photos you adorn your walls with all make for a unique and custom backdrop to your at-home session. Instead of “hiding” how you live, its important to SHOW OFF your space in these photos as well as your new addition and your connection to one another.
Many people ask how to make sure their home and nursery is “photo ready” for a newborn session.
Here are some tips to prep your home for a picture perfect newborn photos at-home:
1. Choose two areas of your home for me to photograph in. This gives some variety to your photos. These two areas are often the nursery and living room. Other suggested spaces are the parent’s bedroom, outdoor space (if weather permitting), and believe it or not, the kitchen. Whatever two areas you choose be sure they have at least one window, natural light is key to creating images in my style. When choosing what space we use, consider this, walls that are green or yellow will translate that color into your images. If you have a neutral colored room, that is ideal for photos.
2. Tidy Up. You may notice I didn’t say, “clean the whole house”. If we’re only using two main areas you just need to tidy those areas. You will want to remove any distractions in the space for example; humidifier, baby “changing area”, garbage can, water bottles, tissue boxes, etc. Quickly vacuum that cute rug, because it just may become a backdrop for photos of your little one. If you side tables have decor on them, simplify it by removing a clock or phone charger that may be distracting. One mom recently joked, “I just want to make it look like no one lives here!” I agree that is a great plan, but also we can be realistic and show off your space and style, too!
3. What you wear is equally important to where we photograph. I highly recommend simple, sold color outfits for parents. As a parent you become the backdrop to your darling little one. If you’re wearing patterns that could distract from the images be aware of how it will look in the final outcome of your photos. Wearing a solid color is also slimming for a new mom. I have a whole Pinterest board about what to wear for newborn photos sessions, check that out here!
4. Here are a few quick tips for newborn sessions to be “elevated” to an almost “studio” style.
-White bedspread. Maybe you have a decorative or patterned bedspread. If you plan to use your master bedroom, swap that out for white bedspread or white sheets and a neutral throw-blanket.
-Open up all the shades and blinds. In whatever room we’re working withtie back the curtains and pull up the blinds to let all the natural light in.
-If using the nursery, make sure we have only the essentials out, one favorite blanket and a simple sheet on the bed.
5. Outdoor space. If you have an outdoor area of your home we just need a small space, too! If weather is permitting, and it’s warm enough for a little one, we can go outdoors for variety. This is often a great idea when you have a toddler or dogs as they love to play outside and be a part of the action! Here is a favorite “backyard” newborn session to check out.
6. What about the baby!??!! Of course, you need a baby, too – that makes the whole session even sweeter. To learn more about how old your newborn should be, how to prep your little one, what they should wear, and how to schedule – click here and request a Newborn Info & Pricing guide. I’d love to meet you and your newborn.
If you’re hoping to have an at-home newborn session, I’d love to meet you! Let’s chat and plan the perfect session.
Allie.Photo is a wedding and portrait photographer based in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. I love to photograph people who love life as much as I do. I specialize in photography that is bright and joyful, and promise you will enjoy the entire process. I serve awesome people everywhere within the Greater Boston area to the White Mountains, Cape Cod, and all over New England. Reach out today you’re planning a wedding or need family photos and think we might be a great fit!
