What is an At Home Newborn Session?
This session takes place when your baby is between 5-15 days old. This is a great chance to document your tiny baby before they grow (way too quickly)! It will be a laid back session in the comfort of your own home.
Having a new baby is hard and wonderful all at the same time. My job is not to make this time in your life look perfect; my job is to show you just how beautiful it is. I want you to be relaxed and at ease while I am photographing your family. You don't need to be anything but yourself.
Before your Newborn Photo Session
What should the family wear for our at home newborn photo session?
In my blog post I give you tips and suggestions on what every family member can wear for the session. Read it for more information and to help you plan out your outfits. What to wear to a Lifestyle Newborn Session
Need to purchase a swaddle or learn how to swaddle your newborn? Here is another blog post all about Baby Swaddles that you can use as a reference. So go ahead and check it out.
Day of your Newborn Photo Session
Where in my home will the session take place?
When I get to your home, I will walk around to figure out the best lit areas for the photos. I am a natural light photographer, which means I use the lighting from windows and doors. I often use the nursery, master bedroom or living room/couch. It is not uncommon to stay in just one area of your home for the entire session if it has great lighting.
If it is warm outside then we can do part (or all) of the session outdoors in your front or backyard as well. I suggest having a big quilt or blanket to lay out in the grass.
Also, PLEASE don’t feel like you have to clean the house before I arrive. I know what it is like to have a newborn and there just isn’t time for that. We can easily pick up/declutter an area that we want to use for photos while I’m there. So don’t you dare vacuum, dust, or mop before I get there, now is the time to rest and enjoy your newest little family member!
Do you use props during your Newborn Session?
Your baby is precious and perfect the way he or she is, so I don’t do props or unnatural posing (like in baskets/boxes). Unlike other types of newborn photos, it doesn’t matter to me if the baby is awake or asleep. The baby will guide the session.
The focus of the session is the connection with your new baby and each family member. I want the baby to be held, cuddled, and kissed, so the majority of the photos will be in the arms of a family member.
I suggest you try to feed the baby about 15 minutes before I come, but you don’t have to worry or force it, I allow for plenty of time to feed the baby as needed throughout the session.
What about the Siblings?
I know what it is like to have a new baby (mom of three over here!), so this time can be a big transition for the sibling(s). I usually try to get sibling and family photos right at the beginning of the shoot since the sibling(s) may lose interest after time.
I have no major expectations for the siblings and will never force them into doing anything they aren't comfortable with. It is best to prepare the sibling for the session by telling him or her that a friend is coming to visit and take some photos of your family. It is always best not to surprise them. I will help guide the sibling of what to do (hold your new baby, look at those little fingers, etc) and you will be there to support them and keep the baby safe.
I am here for you. I want to make your lifestyle at home newborn photo session experience as stress-free and calm as possible. I want you to be able to smile and enjoy the precious new life you welcomed into this world. Please reach out to me and ask any questions that you may have, I am happy to help!
Are you expecting a baby? Email me now to save the date! I offer limited spots each month.
Monica Conlin is a family and newborn lifestyle photographer that specializes in newborn photography, Fresh 48 photography, maternity photography, smash cake photography, school photography, and family photography. Monica is based in Decatur, GA and services Decatur, Atlanta, and the surrounding areas (including, by not limited to: Kirkwood, East Lake, Edgewood, Lake Claire, Candler Park, Inman Park, Ormewood Park, Grant Park, Reynoldstown, East Atlanta, Cabbagetown, Old Fourth Ward, Virginia Highland, Avondale, Midtown, Downtown Atlanta, Ansley Park, Morningside-Lenox Park, Druid Hills, Piedmont Heights, Poncey-Highland).
Please contact Monica Conlin Photography at hello@monconpix.com if you need a Newborn Lifestyle Photographer, Newborn at home Photographer, Lifestyle Family Photographer, newborn photographer, baby photographer, or maternity photographer.
