Why in-home newborn sessions are the bee’s knees
As a lifestyle photographer, I document a lot of young families. Most of them come to me as a young married couple starting their adventure, and this eventually leads to maternity sessions and then… you guessed it, it’s time to document a squishy new babe! As we approach the colder winter months, these sessions take place exclusively in my client’s homes. It’s such a privilege to be invited over like I’m an old family friend stopping by for coffee and catch up. And, probably to play with your dog (cuz let’s be honest here). Documenting these amazing milestones just fills my heart, ya’ll.
If you’re curious about what makes an in-home newborn session so awesome, you’re in for a treat. So grab a mug of pumpkin spice or apple cider and let’s chat about everything that makes these moments so special!
Shooting at home can minimize outside risks.
Having your session at home means you get to make the calls about who and what touches your child. You can be certain that clothes and items have been washed and handled the way you have chosen. You’ll know for certain your babe hasn’t been exposed to any unnecessary chemicals through the use of shared props or clothing items. My approach to newborn photography has always been “hands-off,” as this minimizes any risk of outside germs and viruses compromising their tiny squishy bodies.
Sessions are geared towards baby’s comfort (and yours).
They don’t say “there’s no place like home” for nothing. With an in-home session, there’s no need to pack a diaper bag, or pile into the car. You just stay put. Heck, there’s no reason to even put on shoes.
Preparing your home takes less effort than you think.
Something I hear all the time is “my home is too messy for a session!” We honestly all need to give ourselves some slack. You just finished growing a human, so the LAST thing I want you to do is deep clean your home and buy all new furniture. I can help you tidy up the room we’ll be shooting in, to make sure there is nothing detracting from your beautiful selves. But remember, not all clutter is truly clutter. There are some things - like your child’s favorite book, or a beloved toy - that are just fine staying where they are.
The whole family can participate.
Got a bunch of rowdy kids and a dog who sticks his nose in everyone’s business? No prob. I actually find that kids come out of their shell most in their own environment! At home, they can take breaks, have a snack, play with their toys, and let their personalities run wild. It’s so important to help older siblings feel included and special, especially during a time when so much of the focus is on baby.
Life can go on as usual.
Lifestyle sessions capture aspects of motherhood that may be left out of a traditional studio session. Feedings and changings are bound to happen, and these are moments equally worth documenting. Your session will allow plenty of time for these things to happen as needed!
The final images are gonna feel like you.
In-home sessions are the perfect way to truly capture what life is like now. It’s gonna make you look back and remember how the light would warm your living room on a Saturday morning, or how you would delicately swaddle your newborn babe as your furchild would sniff curiously. It’s gonna help you remember how things felt, not just how they looked. If you ask me, that’s the best way to capture such an important milestone.
