Your In-Home Newborn Session: Everything You Need to Know
There is something incredibly magical about those first few days with your new baby.
The sleepy stretches, the tiny yawns, the wrinkly toes, and the way they fit perfectly in your arms—it all changes so quickly. Your newborn session is about more than photographs; it’s about preserving the story of this fleeting season and documenting your baby’s very first days at home.
When Should We Schedule Our Newborn Session?
The ideal time to photograph newborns is when they are between 5 and 10 days old. During this stage, babies are typically very sleepy and still love curling into those sweet, womb-like poses. They are generally content being gently moved from pose to pose while they snooze peacefully.
Of course, beautiful images can be created at any age. However, once babies move beyond this “brand new” stage, they begin stretching out, becoming more alert, and may not settle into those curled poses as easily. If you have your heart set on a specific pose or style of image, be sure to mention it during your pre-session consultation.
A Note for Parents of Little Boys
If you are planning to have your son circumcised, we recommend allowing at least five days of healing time before your session.
Why In-Home Newborn Sessions Are So Special
One of my favorite things about in-home newborn sessions is that your baby’s first photographs take place exactly where their story begins—at home.
There is no need to pack up your entire nursery or worry about leaving the house with a days-old baby. Instead, I come to you. We use the beautiful natural light in your home and incorporate meaningful spaces, such as the nursery, your bedroom, or your favorite cozy corner.
These images become more than portraits. They become memories of your baby’s first home and the little details you’ll want to remember forever.
I strive to create a calm, peaceful environment during our time together. If we will be including older siblings or parent photographs, we’ll typically begin with those images and then spend the remainder of the session focusing on your newest little love.
What to Expect During Your Session
Newborn sessions move slowly—and that’s exactly how they should.
Expect your session to feel relaxed and baby-led. We’ll pause for feedings, diaper changes, snuggles, and soothing whenever needed. There is absolutely no rush.
I may use white noise to help keep your baby comfortable and sleepy, and you’re encouraged to simply relax. Cuddle your baby, sip your coffee, or take a few moments to sit down and breathe.
And please don’t worry about accidents.
Babies pee. Babies poop. Babies spit up.
It’s all part of newborn photography, and I promise nothing surprises me anymore!
What to Bring (Or Have Nearby)
Pacifier
Even if your baby doesn’t regularly use one, I highly recommend having a pacifier available during the session. The “Soothie” style pacifiers tend to work wonderfully for soothing babies and helping them settle back to sleep.
Extra Bottles or Milk
Whether you nurse or bottle-feed, babies often eat more frequently during newborn sessions. Having extra milk available can be incredibly helpful.
And don’t forget to keep snacks and water nearby for yourself, too. Newborn days are exhausting.
Meaningful Nursery Items
Handmade blankets, heirloom quilts, knitted hats, stuffed animals, special books, or sentimental nursery decor all help tell your baby’s story. I love incorporating these little details whenever possible.
Simple Clothing
Much of newborn photography focuses on all of those beautiful little details—tiny fingers, squishy toes, fluffy hair, and soft baby features.
Simple onesies, neutral swaddles, and minimal clothing tend to photograph beautifully.
How Long Does a Newborn Session Last?
Every baby is different, so flexibility is key.
Most newborn sessions last anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending entirely on your baby’s needs and temperament. We work on your baby’s schedule, not mine.
What Should We Wear?
If you’ll be included in photographs, I recommend sticking with soft, neutral tones:
- Creams
- Whites
- Beiges
- Tans
- Soft grays
- Light earth tones
Neutral colors keep the focus on your connection and create timeless images that never go out of style.
More Tips for a Successful Session
1. Have a Helper for Older Children
If siblings are participating, having an extra set of hands can be incredibly helpful. Once sibling photographs are complete, another adult can help keep little ones occupied while we continue focusing on baby.
2. Feed Baby Well
A full tummy often equals a sleepy, content baby. If possible, try feeding your little one right before we begin.
3. Loosen the Diaper
About thirty minutes before your session, loosen your baby’s diaper slightly to help reduce diaper marks on their skin.
4. Don’t Be Surprised if I Ask for a Little Space
Babies know their mother’s scent better than anyone’s. Occasionally, I may ask mom to step into another room for a few moments while I soothe baby. This is completely normal and often helps baby settle.
5. Be Patient
Babies are incredibly intuitive and can sense when we’re stressed or anxious. The calmer the environment, the smoother the session tends to go.
6. Sleepy Babies Make for Sleepy Poses
Most posed newborn images work best when babies are sound asleep. Anything you can do to encourage a full belly and a relaxed, sleepy baby will help us tremendously.
A Note for Nursing Mothers
If you are nursing, some moms find that being mindful of certain foods in the days leading up to the session can help minimize tummy discomfort and gas for baby.
Foods some parents choose to limit include:
- Spicy foods
- Citrus fruits
- Excess caffeine
- Chocolate
- Highly processed foods
Foods many parents find helpful include:
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Eggs
- Salmon
- Fruits and berries
- Yogurt and cheese
- Plenty of water
As always, every baby is different, and this guide is simply a suggestion. Please consult your pediatrician with any questions regarding your diet and your baby’s needs.
Above All Else…
Give yourself grace.
These first days are beautifully messy, wonderfully exhausting, and over far too quickly. Your baby doesn’t need to sleep perfectly or pose flawlessly. They simply need to be exactly who they are—a tiny, brand-new human who is deeply loved.
My job is simply to preserve this season for you, so years from now you can look back and remember just how little they once were.
