While lifestyle newborn sessions are easy on you and the family, there is still some prep work involved in getting your home and your family ready for the session. I take into consideration that you and your family are still adjusting to your new life, so I want to make sure everyone is relaxed and comfortable when I come into your home.

Preparing your home

There is a small amount of prep needed for your newborn session. I usually only use two rooms in your home that offer great window light, I do have artificial lighting equipment I can bring if adequate light is not an option. Do not stress over having to clean your entire house! I am a mother myself and completely understand the stressful emotions involved in keeping an entire house clean…it’s next to impossible. The two rooms I usually use to tell the story of your new baby in your home is the nursery and your bedroom or living room. I do ask that items such as empty photo frames, charging cords, etc. be temporarily set aside for cosmetic purposes.

Preparing baby

A warm cozy baby is a happy sleepy baby. If your home is typically on the chilly side, I recommend turning off AC units in summertime or turning up the furnace a touch in the wintertime 30 minutes prior to the session. This is not necessary, but if you’re wanting those sleepy pictures this is a great method to help out. Another way to ensure a happy sleepy baby is a stimulating bath 30 minutes prior then feeding your baby. A warm baby with a full tummy is sure to be a relaxed and sleepy baby. Dress your baby in neutral colors, try to avoid crazy patterns and logos if possible. I recommend sleeper that’s easy to take off, simple onesie, or swaddling in a neutral blanket or swaddle. If you desire head pieces, please keep it simple and avoid oversized bows and flowers. I have swaddles and headpieces that I can bring to the session.

Preparing the family

When dressing the rest of the family I recommend sticking with neutrals, no crazy patterns or logos. I highly recommend everyone be barefoot for lifestyle newborn sessions. For moms, try to stay comfortable since you just had a baby! But I understand wanting to feel beautiful, so a beautiful dress or post-partum gown is a great option. If a dress is not your style, choosing a comfortable sweater or shirt with jeans or leggings is another option. Dads always look great in a basic tee or Henley with khakis, linen pants or jeans. For siblings, I recommend outfits that compliment each other but do not match. If you have pets, I always welcome their happy vibes in the session! When it comes to prepping the family for a photoshoot, please do not stress them out with high expectations or bribes, this session is documenting your life together…even the crazy moments!