Welcoming a new baby into your home is such a beautiful and exciting time! Life feels like a whirlwind of diaper changes, feeding schedules, and all the cuddles you can squeeze in. Amid this busy (and often sleep-deprived) season, you might be wondering how to prepare your home for a lifestyle newborn session without adding extra stress to your plate. Don’t worry — I’ve got you covered with some simple tips to help you in preparing for your in-home newborn session!

Cleaning and Decluttering Without Stress

The number one concern I hear from parents when it comes to preparing for their in-home newborn session is: “My house isn’t perfect!”

First, take a deep breath. Lifestyle newborn sessions are all about capturing the love and connection within your family, not the state of your home. That said, a little tidying up can help to create a clean and cozy backdrop for your photos.

Here are a few stress-free tips:

• Focus on Key Areas: You don’t need to clean the whole house! Prioritize spaces like the nursery, master bedroom, and living room, as these are the most commonly used areas during the session.
  
• Declutter Surfaces: Clear nightstands, coffee tables, and dressers of anything overly distracting (e.g., water bottles, phone chargers, or stacks of mail). A few personal touches, like a framed photo or a vase of flowers, can stay to add warmth.
  
• Let the Light In: Natural light is a game-changer for in-home sessions. Open up curtains and blinds to let the sunlight pour in. Even if your home feels “lived in” (as it should!), soft, natural light creates a warm and inviting feel.
  
• Skip the Perfection: Remember, I’m here to capture your family’s unique story — toys, baby blankets, or even the occasional burp cloth in the background are part of that story. Embrace the little imperfections that make this season special.

What to Wear for Parents and Siblings

Choosing outfits for your family can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The goal is to keep things simple, comfortable, and cohesive so that the focus remains on your sweet new baby and your family’s connection.

Here are a few tips to help you decide:

• Stick to Neutrals and Soft Colors: Light, neutral tones (like whites, creams, pastels, or soft grays) photograph beautifully and create a timeless look. Avoid loud patterns or bold logos that might draw attention away from your baby.
  
• Texture Over Prints: Subtle textures like knits, lace, or linen can add visual interest without overwhelming the image. A cozy sweater for dad or a flowy dress for mom can be great options.
  
• Coordinate, Don’t Match: Choose a color palette with 2-3 complementary colors and have everyone’s outfits coordinate naturally. For example, soft blues and creams pair beautifully with earth tones like taupe or sage.
  
• Keep Comfort in Mind: Newborn sessions can last a couple of hours, so choose outfits that everyone feels relaxed in. If mom is breastfeeding, a flowy button-down dress or top can offer both comfort and practicality.
  
• Dress Baby Simply: A plain onesie, swaddle, or baby gown works perfectly for your little one. Neutral tones or soft patterns keep the focus on their tiny features and expressions.

Prepping the Nursery and Other Spaces

One of the highlights of in-home sessions is capturing your baby in their very first space. The nursery is often a focal point, but we can also use other areas of your home that hold special meaning.

Here’s how to prepare:

• Keep It Personal: Highlight the details that make the nursery uniquely yours, like a handmade blanket, a favorite stuffed animal, or a framed quote. These small touches add so much personality to your photos.
  
• Simplify the Space: Tidy up any clutter, but don’t overthink it. A few toys or books on a shelf make the room feel lived-in and authentic.
  
• Be Mindful of Lighting: Natural light is ideal, so try to schedule your session for a time of day when the nursery gets the most sunlight. If the room is darker, don’t worry — I’ll bring equipment to help brighten things up.
  
• Cozy Touches in Other Rooms: The master bedroom and living room often play a big role in newborn sessions. Fluff pillows, smooth out bed linens, and add soft, neutral blankets or throws to create a cozy atmosphere. Family pets are always welcome to join the fun, too!

A Final Note

Preparing for your in-home newborn session doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Remember, this time is about celebrating your growing family and cherishing the little moments that make this season so special. My goal is to make your session as stress-free and enjoyable as possible, so you can focus on what truly matters: soaking in the magic of these fleeting newborn days.

If you have any questions or need guidance before your session, I’m always here to help. I can’t wait to capture these precious memories with you!