Nottingham Family Photographer

The Ultimate Guide to a Newborn Photoshoot at Home

What to Expect, How to Prepare, and Why It’s Perfect for Your Family

Father gently cradling his newborn baby during a newborn photoshoot at home.

Welcoming your baby into the world is nothing short of magical. Those tiny hands, sleepy eyes, and the softest little coos deserve to be celebrated—and captured forever. A newborn photoshoot at home isn’t just convenient; it creates heartfelt, timeless images right where life happens—your home.

As a professional photographer, I specialise in turning everyday moments into cherished memories. Here’s everything you need to know about planning your at-home newborn session, including answers to common questions and practical tips for making the most of your experience.

Why Book an At-Home Newborn Photoshoot Session?

Your home is more than a location—it’s where your family’s story begins. By choosing a newborn shoot at home, you ensure the setting is as unique and personal as your family.

Awake newborn baby lying on a soft white blanket during a newborn photoshoot at home.
  • Familiar surroundings create a calm environment for you and your baby.
  • Items like a cosy baby bed, your favourite family couch, or even a lovingly messy bookshelf add a unique, authentic touch to your photos.
  • Sessions include every part of the family—siblings, pets (aka your furry baby), and all the little newborn details that make this stage so special.

For more inspiration on what makes at-home newborn sessions unique, explore my guide on lifestyle newborn photography.

Family cuddling with their newborn baby and dog in the kitchen during a newborn photoshoot at home.
Mom breastfeeding her baby on a cozy bed as dad watches lovingly during a newborn photoshoot at home.
Family with their newborn baby and dog standing by a decorated Christmas tree during a newborn photoshoot at home.
Newborn baby wearing a red hat cuddling on mom’s shoulder during a newborn photoshoot at home.

Newborn Photoshoot at Home: What to Expect

When I arrive for your newborn photo session, I bring my experience and creative eye to turn everyday spaces into magical backdrops. Here’s what happens:

  • I’ll start by exploring your home for the best spots with window light. These areas are perfect for creating soft, natural lighting in the photos.
  • There’s no need to stress about mess—trust me! A quick tidy and a bit of decluttering is all that’s needed to prepare.
  • We’ll move at your baby’s pace. Need to pause for feeding, diaper changes, or cuddles? No problem. It’s all part of the session.
A smiling newborn baby being held by their parents during a newborn photoshoot at home.

Pro tip: Sessions are unrushed, typically lasting 2–3 hours. This allows us to capture a mix of sleepy poses, quiet feedings, and even those curious moments when your baby is awake.

Parents lovingly embracing their newborn baby during a lifestyle newborn photoshoot at home.
Newborn baby holding mom’s finger while relaxing on her lap during a newborn photoshoot at home.

My Happy Clients!

Marta is very friendly and professional. She captures the best moments. The photos are real and not staged. I would highly recommend her and I'm sure we will book another session in the future.
Parents smiling at each other as their newborn baby rests on dad’s chest during a newborn photoshoot at home.
Gosia Phillips

How to Prepare for an At-Home Newborn Session

Preparation for your baby photo session is simple and stress-free. Here’s what to do:

  • Pick rooms with natural light—the nursery, living room, or even your bedroom are usually great options.
  • Dress your baby in something soft and simple, like a white onesie or a neutral swaddle. Avoid busy patterns that can distract from your baby’s sweet features.
  • Keep the environment cosy. Babies love warmth, so slightly upping the thermostat is a great idea.
  • Declutter your space, but don’t deep-clean. The focus will be on your family, not the background.

Need guidance on what to wear for your session? Check out my wardrobe tips and explore the client wardrobe catalogue for inspiration.

Questions I’m Often Asked About Newborn Sessions at Home

Do we need to do anything before you come to our house for the shoot?

Just a light tidy-up and a cosy atmosphere. I’ll take care of the rest!

My house is tiny/too messy—will it still work?

Absolutely! Even small, simple spaces can create stunning photographs. What matters most is the love and connection we’ll capture.

Mom breastfeeding her baby on a bed while dad lovingly watches during a newborn photoshoot at home.
A peaceful newborn baby sleeping in a blue outfit with cloud patterns during a newborn photoshoot at home.

Will you pose our baby?

Yes, but naturally and gently. Think soft snuggles, your baby in Daddy’s hands, or cosy moments on your master bed.

What should my baby wear?

Keep it simple: neutral outfits or no outfit at all! This keeps the focus on your baby’s natural beauty.

Parents smiling at each other as their newborn baby rests on dad’s chest during a newborn photoshoot at home.

When should we have the shoot?

The best time for newborn photo sessions is within the first two weeks, but up to two months is great if you prefer more awake babies in your photos.

How much is the shoot? What do we get for that?

I offer packages tailored to your needs, all of which include high-quality digital photography files delivered via an online gallery for easy sharing.

Can siblings get in the pictures?

Of course! Including siblings (or even family pets) makes for heartwarming family portraits that everyone will cherish.

How do we see the images?

Your photos will be shared through a secure online gallery, where you can select your favourites for your chosen package. Edited images will be delivered via a professional transfer link.

Want to ensure your session is a success? Here are some quick tips:

  • Feed before the session. A full tummy means a content, sleepy baby, which makes for easier photos.
  • Keep your baby’s outfits minimal—soft fabrics, neutral colours, and simple designs are best.
  • Include personal touches like cuddling with your family pet, using your baby’s favourite toy, or sitting in a favourite chair.
  • Use spaces with lots of window light for that soft, natural glow in your photos.

Learn more about making your session unforgettable in my baby photography guide.

Posed photos are beautiful, but there’s something so special about lifestyle photography. These capture the authentic, unscripted love between you and your baby. From sleepy snuggles to those little yawns and stretches, lifestyle newborn photoshoots are filled with real, emotional moments.

When you choose a newborn photography session at home, you’re choosing to document this fleeting moment in the most meaningful place: your family’s heart. Here’s why it’s worth it:

  • Your baby feels secure in their familiar surroundings.
  • The session is unrushed, ensuring time for every little detail, from baby pictures to quiet nursing moments.
  • You can include special items, like a family quilt, a treasured toy, or even your family photographer’s favorite prop.
Mom breastfeeding newborn baby while dad lovingly watches during a newborn photoshoot at home.

How Long Will the Shoot Take?

A typical session takes about up to 2 hours (depend on chosen package), which allows for feeding breaks, diaper changes, and snuggles. This timeframe ensures we capture both posed moments and candid family interactions.

An at-home newborn photoshoot isn’t just about pictures—it’s about celebrating your family’s unique story. These sessions are intimate, relaxed, and filled with all the little moments that make early parenthood so magical.

Ready to book your session? Let’s create photos that you’ll treasure for a lifetime. I’m here to guide you every step of the way and to ensure the experience is as joyful as the images themselves.

Newborn Photoshoot at home. Pictures showing your unique bond between you and baby. Video