Welcoming a new baby into your home is one of life’s most beautiful and fleeting chapters. As a Salem-based newborn and family photographer, I absolutely love documenting this season in a relaxed, cozy way. While many of these sessions take place at my studio in Salem, I can also come to you!
In-home baby photoshoots are ideal for busy families, especially when your baby is still so young. And guess what? You don’t need a perfectly styled home or big windows to get sweet, timeless images. With just a few thoughtful preparations, your session can feel smooth, stress-free, and even enjoyable!
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Here are my top 5 tips for making the most of your in-home baby photoshoot:
1. Keep Baby Well-Fed and Rested
A happy baby is usually a well-fed, well-rested one. I always recommend feeding your baby right before I arrive, so they’re full and cozy to start. Sessions are baby-led, meaning we follow their rhythm. If baby needs a break to nurse, be changed, or simply snuggle with parents, that’s perfectly okay. Those moments often make for the most authentic images.
Planning the session around your baby’s nap schedule also helps minimize fussiness. I may suggest a meeting time, but if you know that is smack dab in the middle of when they normally nap, please tell me, and we can scoot our meeting time to work around nap time.
2. Choose Simple, Comfortable Outfits
When it comes to baby outfits, think soft, cozy, and neutral. Solid colors and gentle textures photograph beautifully and keep the focus where it belongs: on your baby.
Avoid anything too tight or fussy (like scratchy lace or stiff collars), and skip the big logos or bold patterns. A knit onesie, swaddle blanket, or even just a diaper cover can be perfect. And always keep an extra outfit handy… just in case.
Some great places to shop: Jamie Kay, Oat Co, and Noralee.
If you’re unsure what to dress your baby in, I’m always happy to offer suggestions. I have some client wardrobe pieces available, too.
3. Don’t Worry About the Light – I Bring My Own!
Many parents worry their home won’t be “bright enough” for good photos. Let me reassure you: it’s totally okay if your space doesn’t have big windows or tons of natural light.
I bring professional lighting equipment to replicate big, soft window light to all my in-home baby photoshoots. This means I can create flattering, dreamy lighting in any room, without it feeling harsh or looking flashy.
4. Lightly Declutter Your Space
Your home doesn’t need to look like a magazine shoot for an in-home baby photoshoot. I promise. But lightly tidying the areas where we’ll be photographing (like the living room, nursery, and primary bedroom) can help keep the focus on your family.
That might mean clearing off nightstands, tucking away baby gear in the garage, or tossing laundry into a closet. Just a few quick tweaks can make a big visual impact. And if something is in the way, I’m happy to gently move things around as needed.
5. Go With the Flow
Babies are beautifully unpredictable, and that’s exactly what makes these in-home baby photoshoots so meaningful. While I will absolutely guide you with gentle direction and posing, the goal isn’t picture-perfect poses. Instead, we’re capturing real, honest moments: sleepy snuggles, gummy smiles, tiny yawns, and even mid-session feeding breaks. In-home sessions naturally lean toward a more lifestyle feel: relaxed, authentic, and full of connection.
Some of the most cherished images come from simply letting your baby be themselves. As long as you’re present, loving, and relaxed, we’ll create something magical together.
Ready to Book Your Own In-Home Baby Session?
My goal is always to make your experience easy, natural, and joyful. These photos aren’t just for today – they’re for the years ahead, when your baby is suddenly not so little anymore.
If you’re thinking about scheduling an in-home baby photoshoot, I’d love to walk you through the process. You can reach out here to start planning your session.
I can’t wait to create something timeless, right in the comfort of your own home.
Loving Amelia’s Nursery?
How sweet is this nursery?! Such a thoughtfully curated mix of modern simplicity, with a soft, whimsical twist. Light wood furniture gives it an earthy feel, while playful details like the daisy rug, floral lamps, and a very hungry caterpillar mobile add a touch of storybook charm. I love how the overall soft, muted color palette, full of creams and pastels, makes the space feel calm and airy, and the small pops of color add whimsy. All together, I’d say it’s a beautifully curated mix of simplicity, comfort, and a little bit of magic!
