What is an in home newborn photography session?
An in-home newborn photography session is a relaxing way to document some of your most special memories without having to leave your house. This is a style of photography that takes place in your home and focuses on capturing natural and candid moments of the newborn and their family. The photos feature the baby, as well as the home surrounding them. An in home newborn session can create authentic and natural photos that freeze a moment in time.
When is the best time to book an in home session?
You should ideally reach out to your photographer when you are in your second trimester. When a potential client reaches out to me with their due date, I schedule them for a tentative session. I ask clients to keep posted on when baby arrives so that I can adjust if I have to.
When do sessions take place?
The ideal time for these sessions is within the first two weeks after birth so that baby still has that newborn sleepiness. I will never turn away a client that was scheduled with my because baby either arrived early or late, I always adjust find time to make our session work! That is why I ask clients to keep me updated on when baby comes. The best time of day for newborn sessions is the morning. The later in the day that the session starts, the more fussy the baby might be. Nine thirty am is my usual start time.
How do I prepare my home for an In Home Newborn session?
The idea of having a photographer come into your home to photograph it when you are freshly postpartum may sound scary. But I promise you that I am not here to judge in any way! No one has a perfect home when they are going though so much. Just tidy up the best that you can prior to the session. Meaning tuck away any random items, loose wires and objects that do not belong in your photos. I will help you straighten up upon my arrival and I will just move anything that needs to be moved.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY SESSION?
I always say to dress mom first. Find something that you will feel as confident as possible in. I offer my clients styling guidance that includes links to shop from, as well as full access to my client closet with an optional try on appointment prior to your session. My go to recommendation for mom is a flowy dress, that allows for access to breastfeeding if applicable. But if you are not into dresses, totally okay! You have to wear what you feel your most beautiful in. Colors are so important. Aim for neutral, muted, or early tones. Anything too bright can take away from the overall photo. Think about coordinating siblings. Find one outfit for baby that you love. I also always bring baby outfit and swaddle options. Dad should wear a simple dress shirt and pants or jeans. The whole family should avoid busy prints. Please take off your Apple Watches and hair ties! I send much more styling advice in my newborn preparation guide.
What happens during an in home newborn session?
When I arrive to your home I will ask for a tour after washing my hands and introducing myself. During the tour, I am looking for the best light. The most commonly used home locations are the primary bedroom, the nursery if there is one, and the living room. But don't be surprised if I say that I want to try something in the kitchen, on the stairs, or is some other random spot! I am constantly thinking about creative ways to capture the unique story of your family.
During the session, various photos of the baby and the family will be taken. These sessions with me are baby led, meaning we follow the lead of the baby, taking breaks as needed. Since we will really take our time, a typical in home session can last anywhere two to three hours because we take breaks as needed. Having additional children also requires extra patience and gentleness, which I bring plenty of.
Storytelling Newborn and family Photography
Storytelling photography is more than just having the subject smile at the camera. It is about capturing the feeling and the emotion behind the moment. I am a big believer in documenting the history of your family in more than just a linear way, but in an emotional way as well. You can never go back in time to when your child was a tiny newborn, but you can always look at the moment in photos. I encourage natural moments where I give prompts rather than stiff poses. However, if a client is feeling awkward in front of the camera, I am there to help!
Siblings
The transition of having a new baby in the family can be a lot for a young toddler. Big emotions may be happening at the same time as you are asking your toddler to be involved in a photo session with a stranger and a new smelly baby that is taking attention away from them. The key to approaching all of this is patience. I am in no rush, so we can take as much time as your toddler needs. To prepare them for my arrival, feel free to show them a picture of me so they know who to expect. I will always talk with them and try to build a friendship and comfort level with them. Then we go with the flow. It is never the best idea to try and force them into a picture. Instead, we will follow their lead and let them engage with the family and the new baby as much as they want to. Tantrums may happen, and it is fine. Trust me, I was a classroom teacher for many years, have photographed many toddlers and as well as a toddler mom myself, I have seen it all. Keep it happy and lighthearted, try not to feel stressed because then they may play off of that. We will play games and be silly together, and at the same time, capture some sweet moments.
your gallery
You will receive a complete storytelling fully edited gallery from me. My hopes are that your gallery truly preserves this unique and precious moment in time and in your family's unique story.
To book a session with me at Laney G Photography, reach out today: contact now.
TO READ MORE ABOUT PREPARING FOR a SESSION, CHECK OUT THESE POSTS:
Surviving and Thriving in Family Photos
How to Feel Confident in Family Photos
