June 24, 2024
Welcoming a new member to your family is a beautiful and life-changing event. An in-home newborn photography session is a wonderful way to capture those first precious moments in a setting that is comfortable and meaningful. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Marisa + Johnny’s sweet newborn baby girl in Louisville, KY, and I wanted to share the experience along with some tips for parents preparing for their own in-home session.
An in-home session offers a unique opportunity to document your baby’s first days in the environment where they will grow up. The familiarity of home adds a personal touch to the photos, and the convenience means less stress for new parents.
In a cozy, sunlit nursery in Louisville, I captured the serene beauty of a newborn and the profound joy of the Bush family welcoming their little one. The soft natural light streaming through the windows provided the perfect ambiance. The session included intimate moments of cuddles, feedings, and gentle swaying, showcasing the tender bond between baby and parents.
Preparing for an in-home newborn session can feel daunting, but with a few simple tips, you can ensure it’s a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Schedule the session within the first two weeks of your baby’s birth. During this period, newborns are typically sleepier and still look like a newborn. However, I have done newborn sessions all throughout that first month of life, and they’ve all turned out wonderfully.
Newborns are sensitive to temperature changes. Ensure your home is warm enough to keep your baby comfortable, especially if you plan on having them photographed in just a diaper or swaddled.
Choose a room with ample natural light. Open up curtains and blinds to let in as much light as possible. Natural light creates soft, flattering images and adds a natural glow to your photos. We’ll also turn off all artificial lights (overhead and lamps). Sometimes this seems dark, but if left on they can create an orange coloring to your photos, and you’ll be amazed what my camera can do!
While a lived-in look can add charm, try to declutter the areas where you plan to take photos. Clear out unnecessary items to keep the focus on your baby and family.
Select a few simple outfits for your baby, such as neutral-colored onesies or soft swaddles. If you have special items like a handmade blanket or a family heirloom, have them ready to incorporate into the session.
Have all the baby essentials within reach – diapers, wipes, pacifiers, and feeding supplies. This will help you quickly address any needs without interrupting the flow of the session.
Babies can be unpredictable, and that’s perfectly okay. Stay relaxed and go with the flow. If your baby needs to be fed or changed, take your time. A calm environment helps create beautiful, natural images.
An in-home newborn session is more than just a photo shoot; it’s a way to capture the love and joy that fills your home with the arrival of your new baby. By preparing your space and keeping a few simple tips in mind, you can ensure that your session is a delightful and memorable experience.
If you’re in the Louisville, KY area and considering an in-home newborn session, I’d love to help you create timeless memories of this special time. Reach out here, and let’s make it happen!
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Michelle Bordenkircher Photography is a Louisville, Kentucky based wedding and family photographer.
@michellebordenkircherphoto
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