Maybe you’ve recently found out you’re pregnant and planning out all the fun things that come with having a new baby, or perhaps you’re ready to pop and are hoping to get newborn photos figured out before your due date. Either way, you’ve come to the right spot! 

As a Puyallup newborn photographer, I love helping my clients feel calm and collected at any photo shoot, but especially with a new baby! While professional studios are a popular choice for newborn photos, there’s something uniquely special about opting for lifestyle photography in the comfort of your own home. Here’s why I believe you are doing yourself a favor by taking newborn pictures at home with a professional!

Less Stress

Those first few days and weeks of having a newborn at home can be so chaotic. Whether you’re juggling multiple kids or just learning how to take care of your first baby, you’re going to be tired and possibly overstimulated! The last thing you’re going to want to do is get everyone ready for the shoot, then pack up all the possible items your baby will need to go on a car ride i.e., burp cloths, diapers, noise machine, change of clothes, bottle, nursing cover, blanket, and more!

If your baby is anything like my daughters, they will hate being in their car seat for those first few months. So spare yourself the extra stress of driving anywhere and opt to stay home! This way you’ll only have to worry about getting yourself ready and not packing a million things in your diaper bag to prepare for the worst (like a blowout)! You’ll have everything you need in the comfort of your own home, like plenty of wipes, diapers and a change of clothes.

Familiar Environment 

In the same vein, you’ll be in the familiarity of your own house. You and your family can relax, which allows for more authentic expressions and interactions. This is especially important if older siblings will be part of the session. They can play in their own space and engage with their new sibling in a way that feels comfortable and organic for them. This comfort will translate into more candid photos that capture the essence of your family dynamic.

The kids, including your newborn, will definitely feel more at ease in front of a camera when they are in a familiar space. I love including siblings in lifestyle photos!  I encourage hugs, kisses, and even play. These interactions can lead to some of the most heartwarming photos, showing the bond between your kids. 

Personal Touch

Home is where your story begins, and incorporating your personal space into your photos adds a layer of intimacy. From your favorite cozy blankets to the nursery you’ve lovingly decorated, every corner tells a story. Your final photos will serve as keepsakes, so that many years from today, when you’ve possibly moved to another house, you’ll still have the memory of the house where you first brought home baby.

When given the chance with the right lighting, the nursery is the perfect spot for newborn photos. I love capturing details of your nursery, because I know you worked hard to decorate and create a welcoming room for your baby! It’s always fun to walk into a nursery to see what theme parents chose and how it reflects their personality. Photos are time capsules and will be a reminder of the year your baby was born simply based on the everyday items in your home. One day, those little details will be the nostalgia that brings you back to this special moment in your life.

Don’t Worry About Being Pinterest Perfect!

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, your house doesn’t have to be perfect to have photos at home. I understand that not everyone is an interior decorator— I am in that boat! But one thing about lifestyle photography is that it’s a peek into your family and your own personality. What your house looks like is a reflection of your style and interests.  You’ll be able to look back on the photos and remember the house you raised your kids in, which is super sentimental! Or maybe it’s not your forever home, but that’s ok too. These are snapshots into your life right NOW and it will forever put a timestamp on the month and year you delivered that baby. 

Your home doesn’t have to be perfect, it just should be you! And if you’re worried about messes, don’t sweat it! I know the newborn phase is wild and everyone is sleep deprived. Tidying up a small space for the photos is perfectly fine and we can rearrange things as we go. I’m not afraid to rearrange small furniture items for you or take out distracting clutter if I see it. It’s all part of the process and I’m here to help!

Natural Light

When you opt for a studio session, you’re signing yourself up for artificial lighting. This can sometimes make the photo feel artificial as well, while natural light brings out the true colors in your images, making them feel more vibrant and life-like. Most homes have various spots with great natural light, which is ideal for newborn photography. Soft, diffused window light creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. 

I always consult with my clients on when they get the best lighting in their home. Generally, I tell them to keep an eye out for lighting in the nursery and the master bedroom, which is a great room for snuggling the whole family together on the bed. Other spots that work well are a spacious living room or even a decorated guest room, if you don’t want to clean up your master room! My rule of thumb to check on natural light in your home is to keep an eye out in the morning hours and to turn off all artificial lights, since they cast hints of yellow on your room. Natural light has a blue tone that will look odd when mixed with overhead lights and lamps. So open those curtains or blinds and see how the light falls!

You’ll thank yourself later when you decide to go for the in-home newborn photos! With less stress, a comfortable and personal environment and natural light, you won’t be disappointed with the end results. Plus you can save time and gas money! And you can use that extra cash for some printed products to hang in your home! Remember, there’s no place like home for capturing the magic of family.