Family, Maternity + Newborn Portraits
Madison, Wisconsin

Welcoming a newborn into your family is an incredibly special moment, one that deserves to be captured in timeless photographs. As a photographer specializing in newborn portraits, I understand the importance of creating a comfortable and conducive environment for these sessions. In-home newborn portrait sessions offer the convenience of capturing your baby’s earliest moments in the comfort of your own space. Here’s a photographer’s perspective on how to prepare your home to ensure a successful and memorable photoshoot.

1. Clearing the Space: Before the photoshoot, it’s essential to declutter the area where the session will take place. Remove unnecessary items and create an open space with ample natural light. A clutter-free environment not only enhances the aesthetics of the photographs but provides a safe and comfortable setting for the newborn.
2. Maximizing Natural Light: Natural light is a photographer’s best friend, especially when it comes to newborn photography. Choose a room in your home with large windows that allow plenty of natural light to filter in. Avoid harsh overhead lighting or direct sunlight, as it can cast unflattering shadows. Soft, diffused light creates a gentle and ethereal atmosphere, perfect for capturing the innocence of a newborn.
3. Setting the Temperature: Newborns are sensitive to temperature changes, it’s crucial to maintain a comfortable, warm environment during the photoshoot. Aim for a room temperature of around 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit (24-27 degrees Celsius). This helps keep the baby cozy and content throughout the session, resulting in more relaxed and natural-looking photographs.
4. Creating a Cozy Setup: Consider incorporating soft blankets and cushions to create a cozy and inviting setup for the newborn portraits. Choose neutral-colored fabrics and textures that complement your home’s decor without overpowering the focus on the baby. Simple props such as baskets and wraps can add a touch of charm to the portrait session without distracting from baby.
5. Timing Is Key: Newborns have unpredictable sleep patterns, it’s essential to schedule the session during a time when the baby is likely to be sleepy and calm. Mornings are often ideal, as babies tend to be more relaxed after a feeding and are more likely to drift off to sleep. Be prepared to take breaks for feeding, diaper changes, and soothing the baby as needed throughout the session.
6. Communicating with Your Photographer: Communication is key to ensuring a successful newborn portrait session. Discuss your preferences, ideas, and any special requests with your photographer beforehand. Share information about your home’s layout, lighting conditions, and any specific items you’d like to incorporate into the photoshoot. A collaborative approach helps your photographer tailor the session to meet your expectations and capture the essence of your family’s unique bond.

Things to consider…

Preparing your home for an in-home newborn portrait session requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. By following these tips, you can create a warm, welcoming environment that sets the stage for beautiful and timeless photographs of your precious newborn. From clearing the space and maximizing natural light to creating a cozy setup and communicating effectively, every aspect plays a role in capturing memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

To read more on the SLP blog, click here!