The beginner’s guide to in-home newborn photography (without the overwhelm)

Newborn photography can feel like a lot when you’re just starting out - especially when you’re walking into someone else’s space, unsure what kind of light, layout, or chaos you’ll be working with.

We’ve been there. So we pulled together a few things we wish we’d known when we first started shooting newborns in clients’ homes, to help you skip the stress and go in feeling confident.

Before you shoot, spend a bit of time finding inspiration. Pinterest, Instagram, other photographers you admire, get a feel for what draws you in. Are you loving candid lifestyle moments or something more posed and styled?

Whatever your vibe is, nailing it down now will help you prep the right gear, prompts, and mindset.

1. Get inspired, but make it yours

Clients aren’t mind readers. A clear pre-shoot guide goes a long way. Let them know what to expect and how to prep their space (and baby).

A few key things to include:

  • Feed baby around 20 minutes before you arrive
  • Crank the heating up to around 27°C if baby will be undressed
  • Have any special items they want to include set aside
  • We like to send this twice: once when they book, and again the day before.

2. Send prep info before you turn up

Forget fancy flashes - natural light is your best friend here. Look for soft light coming through windows or doors. Move furniture if needed (seriously, don’t be shy).

Top tip: position baby or the family facing toward the light source for a softer, more flattering effect. Bonus points if you spot those little catchlights in baby’s eyes.

3. Light is everything

You don’t need a Pinterest-worthy styling kit, but a few versatile pieces go a long way. Think: light neutral wrap, textured blanket, soft rug, a nappy cover, and maybe a sheepskin. They’re small, portable, and help give you some consistency if the home doesn’t have much to work with.

4. Keep a few props on hand

Not a rigid checklist - just a mental map of the types of shots you want.
Try these variations:

  • Wrapped and unwrapped versions of the same pose
  • Close-up detail shots (hands, feet, eyelashes)
  • Full-body wide shots
  • Bird’s-eye view and side profiles
  • Baby solo, then with parents, then the whole fam
  • You can get a tonne of variety without moving baby too much.

5. Have a loose shot list

If toddlers are in the mix, be ready. Set up the space first, then bring them in. Keep it quick, fun, and interactive - books, tickles, songs, whatever works.

Our go-to is using the family bed for these shots: it’s comfy, safe, and usually near good light. (And we save these shots until the end, baby will often wake up if a sibling gets too close.)

6. Prepare for siblings (and chaos)

There you go.

You don’t need a studio, a stack of props, or years of experience. Just a solid prep plan, a good eye for light, and a calm presence.

You’ve got this.