What Do You Need for In Home Newborn Photos?
I have been a newborn, children’s and family photographer for ten years now. In that decade, I have had the honor of photographing countless families with their newborn babies. Although I have a beautiful studio located in Long Beach, NY, most of these newborn sessions have been scheduled right in the comfort of my client’s homes.
When I first speak to prospective clients, the first thing they say is they worry that their home is not a good choice for a location for newborn photos. I get it. As moms, we all worry that our homes are not perfect. I am here to tell you that a perfect home is not necessary, nor is a large and spacious home. In fact, I have never walked into a home where I couldn’t capture beautiful photos. Full disclosure…I never walk into a photoshoot without seeing images of the space light and area first. This helps me to get a game plan together prior to your session so I know how to maximize the space and light for gorgeous and timeless newborn photos.
So, you do not have to have a Pinterest or Instagram ready home. The focus of your images is not on your home, but rather on you and your baby. With that all being said, here is what you need to have in for your in home newborn session.
You need one window for natural light
I rely solely on natural light, so having good window light is essential. Most homes have at least on window that is perfect for photos. Prior to your session, you will send over images of your home and the rooms in which you want to have photographs captured. I ask you to take those photos in the morning with overhead lights turned off. =When I arrive in your home, I will tour your home to find the best spots which will have the best window light. In rare cases, I may need to move a few pieces of furniture around to maximize the light.
There’s no need to have a spotless house, or fret your house is too small, or worry that you don’t have floor to ceiling windows. Once I find the right spot, I will move around anything that needs to move, remove clutter and we can start the session. I have captured photos of just as families many in homes that have one room with good light as homes that have multiple rooms with good light. Remember, it is all about your relationship with your baby and family that matters….not the backdrop.
A coordinated wardrobe in soft neutrals
Soft neutrals work best with most homes and are best for family newborn photos. I have a full closet of women’s dresses that work well for newborn sessions. I also have swaddles, wraps and outfits for the baby. During your pre session consult, I will plan your entire family’s wardrobe to take the guesswork out for you and ensure that your wardrobe is polished and aesthetically pleasing. If you prefer to purchases outfits for yourself and the baby. I send over links with your custom family wardrobe board. I keep it simple and use vendors like Amazon, Target, H&M and Old Navy.
YOU and YOUR family
You don’t need any fancy outfits or props for newborn photos. In fact, unless you request them, I don’t use any props. I know that you want images that show your connection with your baby. SO I will ask you to hold him/her, snuggle and keep the baby secure and cozy. No gimmicks, no fancy lighting equipment, no props….just natural light and your family’s love for one another.
Hopefully, this eliminates all of the worries associated with scheduling an in home newborn session. If you are expecting a baby, contact me for more info.