Four Myths About In Home Newborn Sessions |NJ Lifestyle Photographer

Why your house is perfect for an in-home newborn session

I’ve had many moms tell me that they’d love to have newborn photos taken in the comfort of their home, but that their house wasn’t “right” for an in-home session because it was “too messy, too dark, or too small”. I’m here to dispel some common myths about in home newborn sessions. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that your family’s home may be the perfect backdrop for your lifestyle newborn photos.

1. Myth: Your house needs to be spotless

If you’ve recently had a newborn, chances are your home may be in a bit of chaos with loads of laundry to fold or dirty dishes piled in the sink. Not to worry. I mean you did just give birth to another human so no one would expect otherwise. Since the focus of your session is on the relationships you and your spouse share with your new baby, we only need one or two rooms that we can use. Before your session, I’ll either stop by to get a feel for the space and light, or ask you to send some photos of 1-3 rooms in your home with the best natural light. Based on that, I’ll let you know where we are likely to take photos. That way, you’ll know which room or rooms require a little tidying up before your session. It really doesn’t matter what the rest of your house looks like. I promise. Rest assured, if even that feels daunting, I’m happy to help you clear off tables or clutter when I arrive.

2. Myth: Your home needs to look like it belongs in a decorator’s magazine

The goal of lifestyle photos isn’t to recreate a pretty Pinterest post. The goal is to capture meaningful and love-filled images that reflect who you are as a family and tell your unique story. And chances are your home not only feels cozy and comfortable to you and your family, but it also embodies the things that you love most. This makes it the perfect place for newborn photos. So, whether your home décor and style is subtle and subdued, sophisticated, or modern and minimalist or none of the above, it shouldn’t matter. All I need to create a beautiful portrait is you, your loved ones and light from a window.

This goes for your nursery too. Although I enjoy incorporating elements of a beautifully decorated nursery into newborn family photos, it isn’t a requirement to have a Pinterest worthy nursery. In fact, it’s okay if you’re still waiting for furniture to arrive and haven’t even finished decorating your nursery. I’ve photographed families in master bedrooms, living rooms and other well-lit rooms. So, an unfinished or undecorated nursery shouldn’t deter you from booking a newborn session.

3. Myth: Your house is too dark and gloomy or small for a newborn photoshoot 

While it’s true that light is essential for photography, and having a home with lots of large windows lends itself to photos with a with a bright and airy feel, I can capture beautiful images with light from only one window. In fact, I’ve photographed families in homes surrounded by shade trees and I’m always able to find a pocket of light. I find that this type of setting actually adds to the feeling of intimacy in the images that I capture; it also works well for black and white imagery.

As your photographer, I’ll evaluate the light in your home and determine which spaces will work best for your photos. Sometimes, I may suggest we move a chair or other piece of furniture next to a window. All you need to do is snuggle and love on your baby. I’ll handle everything else.

4. Myth: Your baby is too old for newborn photos

With lifestyle newborn photography there’s no need to photograph baby within a fixed window of time. Your baby can be awake or asleep during your session. This flexibility means that lifestyle newborn photo sessions can be scheduled up until babies are about three months. Wondering how to choose the best time to book newborn photos? You might enjoy this post: Tips for Choosing the Best Time for Newborn Lifestyle Photos

At home newborn sessions are truly special and unique. They provide a laid back, cozy and quiet atmosphere for a meaningful photo session without the stress of trying to get everyone out of the house. Whether we take photos in your forever dream home or your right now home, your space is special. It’s bound to be filled with many milestones and memories of your baby’s life. And what better reason to capture beautiful images that will always remind you of this season of life.

I hope this post helped you realize these myths about in home newborn sessions are untrue!

Still unsure if a lifestyle newborn session at home is right for your family? Check out these blog posts: Three reasons to love lifestyle newborn photography and Benefits of lifestyle newborn sessions.

Have a question or want to know more about my in home sessions, I’d love to connect! Get in touch with me here.