Prep Guide
Your In-Home Newborn Session
Thank you for inviting me into your newborn bubble to capture your new baby. There’s something really special about capturing your little one in their first home. These sessions are relaxed and natural, focusing on the connection, emotions, and tiny details that make this newborn stage so special.
Below are a few tips to help you prepare and know what to expect on the day.
What I’ll Bring
I’ll arrive with a small beanbag for baby’s solo photos, along with a suitcase full of blankets, wraps, and outfits for bub. I can also bring a selection of dresses from my client wardrobe if you’d like to wear something from there. Just let me know a few favourites beforehand so I can pack them for you.
Setting Up in Your Home
When I arrive, I’ll have a quick look around to find the best natural light. We’ll usually photograph in a few different areas such as the master bedroom, lounge room, and nursery. I’m also happy to be guided by where you’d envisioned photos in your home.
If you have a white or neutral bedspread, it’s perfect to pop that on the bed before your session, as we often do some photos there if the lighting allows.
During the Session
Newborn sessions usually take around 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This allows plenty of time to pause for feeds, cuddles, and nappy changes whenever needed. The session is completely baby-led, so we’ll take things slowly and keep everything relaxed.
Along with beautiful portraits of your baby, I’ll also capture a mix of family photos including the whole family together, mum and baby, dad and baby, and sibling shots if applicable.
Before We Start
It’s best if baby has a nice big feed just before we begin so they’re settled and content but don’t stress if the feed timings don’t work out that way. Please dress them in a simple zip or snap-up onesie without a singlet so we can transition them gently without waking them too much.
One more thing
Please don’t feel the need to clean or tidy your house extensively before I arrive. The last thing I want is for you to be stressing about that! I’ll move things around as needed and find the best light, so don’t be surprised if I set up in an unexpected spot (sometimes the junk room ends up having the most beautiful light). All I need is your family, your baby, and a little bit of window light. I’ll take care of the rest.
FAQ
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Feeling comfortable and relaxed helps your photos reflect the natural connection of your family. Start by choosing your outfit first, as it’s often easiest to build the rest of the family’s from there. Neutral and earthy tones photograph beautifully in home settings, while linen and soft, flowy fabrics work well for a relaxed, timeless look. Try to avoid matching outfits, bold patterns, neon colours, or large logos. Dads can keep it simple with chinos and a tee or linen shirt, and little ones look sweetest in soft, neutral pieces. If you’re unsure, you’re welcome to borrow something from my client wardrobe or message me for help. I’m always happy to guide you.
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Don’t worry, this happens! If we’re photographing in those early weeks, we usually still get at least some sleepy shots. But awake babies are just as beautiful to capture, and I always follow their lead with plenty of time for feeds, cuddles, and settling.
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Absolutely! It’s such a lovely way to remember the day, and I always appreciate it when clients share and tag me in their photos. With your permission, I love being able to share a few of them on my socials too.
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As a mum of two, I completely understand. Kids can be unpredictable, and that’s perfectly okay. I’ve photographed hundreds of little ones and have plenty of gentle tricks to help them feel comfortable and get them involved.
We’ll start with family and sibling photos while everyone is feeling fresh. The beauty of being in your own home is that once the kids have had enough, they can go play, have a snack, or take a nap — whatever they need.
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Absolutely. If you have something special like a knitted blanket from Grandma, a meaningful toy or a family heirloom, I’d love for you to set it aside and let me know about it when I arrive to your home. Personal touches like these make your photos even more meaningful and unique to your family.
After your session
A few days after your session, you’ll receive a small sneak peek to give you a little preview of what we captured together. Within two weeks, your full gallery will be ready, beautifully curated with a base edit so you can select your favourite images. Once you’ve chosen your collection and completed payment, I’ll finalise the retouching and deliver your finished images within a week.
I hope this guide answers any questions or hesitations you have but if there’s anything else, please let me know. I’m here to help.
I can't wait to create some beautiful images with you.
