Want an In-Home Newborn Photo Session? Here are several tips for preparing your home (Spoiler: not much is needed!).
If you've been dreaming of an in-home newborn photoshoot but you're stressed about the state of your house, this post is for you. All that is needed is one good window to provide natural light. Few homes in the Bay Area are big, bright, and airy, so don't worry if your home is on the darker side, as newborn photographers are good at finding the best light and making it work. If you've been scrolling through pictures on Instagram or Pinterest and all the families seem to have beautiful, perfect homes, here's a secret: professional in-home photographers are amazing at choosing the places with the best light and angles to make beautiful backdrops – no perfect home needed.
I never ask my clients to clean the house before I arrive, as having a newborn baby is enough work that you don't need any extra work, especially cleaning the house! Don't worry if you have dishes in the sink, we won't be photographing there and your photographer won't judge! However, if you're wondering how best to prepare your home to look its best for your in-home newborn photos, here are a few of my best tips for getting ready without stressing.
The best locations for the newborn photoshoot in most homes are the master bedroom, the nursery, and maybe the living room. Minimizing the clutter in these rooms is the best way to get your home ready for your session. A few simple things can really help, including clearing off the bedside tables and any end tables (put any items in the drawers or move elsewhere temporarily) to have clean tabletops. Stashing things in the closet and closing the closet doors also really helps. A clean, neutral bedspread on the master bed also goes a long way for making a good photo setting. (Tip: You can use the backside of your regular comforter or a solid colored layering blanket if the regular comforter has too busy of a pattern).
However, do not worry if you don't have time to clear the bedside end tables or close the closet doors, as I always tell my clients not to worry about cleaning the house, as they are busy with their new baby, and we can easily clear anything during the session if we want to use the space – so please don't stress at all! If I see a spot where I want to photograph and there is stuff in the way, I'm more than happy to clear it out of the way or ask for it to be moved to make the best photos possible – thereby giving the illusion of a spotless house!
On the day of your newborn session, we will have a relaxed and enjoyable photo session, capturing the loving bond between you and your precious new baby. I always tell my clients that I don't have any expectations of the baby – the baby is perfect just the way (s)he is, and so is your home! Future you will be glad you took the time to make these wonderful memories, which you will treasure forever!
