Five Ways to Prepare for Newborn Lifestyle Session with Maryland Newborn Photographer

Newborn lifestyle sessions are some of my favorite sessions to photograph. There’s nothing as exciting as capturing a new family at home with their sweet baby. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to help better prepare your family and house for our session. Newborn sessions at home are usually 2-2.5 hours long, so let’s help you prepare now so that we can make the most of my time with you! Here’s five ways to prepare for newborn lifestyle sessions. 

#1: Prep the light. 

For rooms that get the best natural light (bedroom, nursery, living room,etc.), be sure to turn off any overhead lights and lamps. Pull back curtains so that once I arrive, we can get started capturing all the special memories. If you find that you have super heavy or bulky curtains, it might be worth taking them down. This is especially true in nurseries or children’s rooms where blackout curtains are common. We don’t have to photograph your session in the nursery if you don’t want – or if the light isn’t as great there. I’ve done newborn sessions in master bedrooms, living rooms, and guest rooms. We’ll find the perfect spot! 

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#2: Keep it warm. 

Babies are happier when they’re warm. So, before your session, bump up that thermostat and keep it a tad bit warmer than normal. You may find that your little one is more likely to sleep and that’s perfectly okay! And, if they want to stay awake and see what’s going on, that’s totally fine too! This may make the rest of the family warmer, too, so don’t be afraid to wear something that’s comfortable. 

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#3: Keep things simple. 

When it comes to styling lifestyle newborn sessions, remember simple is best. Grab your favorite swaddle blanket and think about having your baby wear a simple solid colored onesie. White is always a great option! If you have a bow for the baby, wait to put it on until we want to take those photos… otherwise they can leave little marks or indents on your baby’s head! 

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#4: Include what matters to you.

These are YOUR newborn portraits. If there’s a memento that you want to include like their coming home outfit, hospital wrist band, or anything else… grab it and have it out! I want your photos to tell your story, so let’s include what matters to you! 

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#5: Don’t worry about having a perfectly clean house.

First and foremost, it’s NOT a necessity to have a perfectly clean house for lifestyle photos. I’m a mom too and I seriously get what it’s like to bring a baby home and get used to the new lifestyle ahead of you. Don’t be surprised if I move a few things around while I’m there (like your water bottles and cords), I promise to put them right back! I recommend tidying up the rooms you’re planning to have us shoot in but having it sparkling clean is NOT needed. Seriously! 

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That’s it! There you have it: five quick things you can do to prepare for your newborn lifestyle session. I promise, they’re lots of fun and meant to be less stressful for you and your family. If you want more tips on how to prepare for your family session, check out my ideas here!