How can you prepare to make the most of your newborn session? As a Baltimore family photographer, I loved working with this family who recently welcomed a baby girl! They were a great example of how you can use your home to your advantage in your photos. Let me share a few tips for hosting newborn pictures at home.
Something different about newborn pictures at home is that we won’t have those standard “studio” backgrounds. Instead, try to match your wardrobe to your surroundings. For example, if your home has a lot of patterned wallpaper, you’ll want to dress in solids so you don’t clash. If your home has a lot of bold colors, perhaps dress in neutrals to offset it. This beautiful family did a great job of picking outfits to match their home’s colors!
Many families feel insecure about their home, but you don’t need to be worried about the style or setup of your home. What we really need is just natural light—it is the most important part of newborn photos! Ultimately we’ll shoot in the area with the best natural light and most flattering backgrounds. If you need some more guidance, you are more than welcome to send me some images of your space before your session.
Prioritize authentic connections during your session. Newborn pictures at home are a great way to help everyone in the family feel comfortable. I’ll give direction and guidance to a point, such as positioning you in the best light, asking you to look at each other or your baby, etc. but mostly I’m just creating an opportunity for connections to happen naturally. Those connections create photos that you’ll love for years to come.
When you book your newborn pictures at home, I’ll send you a guide to help you prepare for the session. But remember, don’t stress if you can’t do everything exactly! If we need an extra feeding, or a snack for a toddler, home sessions are flexible enough for you to take that time. Your little one will feed off your emotions, so if you are tense, your baby might fuss as well. If you are feeling calm and confident, it will shine through in your photos!
Hopefully you’re feeling a little more excited for your newborn session at home! This family had such a beautiful home and I enjoyed being a part of their memories together. It is such a special experience to be a Baltimore family photographer. Ready for your own photos? Drop a line here.