Creating a Calm, Connected, and Beautiful Experience at Home
Congratulations on the arrival (or upcoming arrival!) of your sweet little one. This is such a meaningful season, and I’m truly honored to help you document it. My goal is to create imagery that feels like you—natural, refined, connected, and full of heart.
Your in-home session should feel relaxed and effortless, like spending the morning with a friend who just happens to have a camera in hand. Here’s how to prepare to make the most of our time together.
Before Your Session
1. Choose the Spaces You Love Most
Your session is a story of this season—messy, beautiful, and full of real-life moments. We don’t have to stick to the nursery! I often recommend using spaces with soft natural light, like your bedroom, living room, or even the kitchen. These everyday corners are where your memories are made, and they photograph beautifully.
We'll keep the session feeling curated and cohesive by choosing 2–3 spaces to work in.
2. Style Around Your Home
Your home sets the tone—so let it guide your wardrobe choices. I love light, neutral palettes (creams, pastels, soft earth tones), but ultimately I want you to feel confident and comfortable. A cozy knit, a soft floral, or even well-loved denim can all work beautifully if it reflects your style.
Start with your outfit first, especially for mom. Flowy dresses are lovely for movement and comfort, but if jeans and a favorite top feel more like you, that’s perfect too. Avoid busy prints, logos, or bold colors that might distract from the connection in your images.
And if you’d like input, I’m always happy to help you pull together a look that feels timeless and true to your family.
3. Declutter (Just a Little)
We’re not aiming for “perfect”—just simple. Tidy spaces allow your family to shine in the frame, without visual clutter. A quick sweep the night before (or morning of!) can make all the difference.
Here’s where to focus:
Nightstands & dresser tops
Cords and chargers
Kitchen counters and tables
Under-bed clutter or visible toys
Any items that wouldn’t feel at home in a framed photo
Don't worry—I'm not expecting a spotless house, just a little breathing room so your images feel calm and polished.
4. Hands & Nails
Hands show up often in newborn photos—holding, comforting, connecting. Whether you're a minimalist or love a fresh set of nails, go with whatever feels most like you. Just be sure to remove chipped polish if possible.
The Day of Your Session
1. Hair & Makeup (Optional, But Lovely)
If it’s in your budget, having your hair and makeup done can be such a special way to care for yourself—especially during these early days. A professional artist can enhance your natural beauty in a way that photographs effortlessly (even on minimal sleep).
That said, it’s not required. A soft wave, a little concealer and lip balm, or whatever makes you feel most comfortable is more than enough. I’m happy to recommend a few trusted artists if you’d like to explore that option.
2. Dress Baby in a Simple Onesie
Newborns love to be swaddled, so we’ll keep things cozy. I recommend a soft, neutral onesie underneath a swaddle blanket (which I’ll wrap for you). Avoid anything too bulky, itchy, or with stiff collars/buttons.
If you have one special outfit you love, we can try it early in the session before baby is too cozy and sleepy.
3. Feed Before We Start
If possible, feeding baby right before I arrive helps them feel full and content—which means a calmer, smoother session for all. But no stress—we always move at baby’s pace and take breaks as needed. These moments are meant to feel gentle and unrushed.
Including the Family Pup
Dogs are part of the family too, and I love when they’re included. If your pup is gentle and responds well to treats, we’ll capture a few sweet moments with them nearby. A little nose-to-nose moment with baby? Yes please.
Have a few favorite treats on hand, and we’ll take it from there.
Final Thoughts
This session isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. My role is to gently guide you while allowing your family’s natural rhythm to unfold. With a little preparation, we’ll create images that feel elevated, yet deeply personal—photos that reflect the quiet joy of this new chapter.
I can’t wait to document it for you.
