Doing newborn photos at home is meant to be a very relaxing experience. It's not uncommon for me to walk in the front door and see mom, feeding the baby, younger siblings hanging out in their play space and dad making sure everything is synchronized in the rest of the home. As photographer, we endeavor to make the entire time we're working with your family as laidback as possible. All of this begins before we even get to your home. I send a version of this preparation list to all my families prior to our photo shoot at their home. So if you're a photographer or a family visiting this page right now, I hope this helps you as you go out and go into your families' homes for your lifestyle newborn photo shoots.
- Pick your family outfits and 1-2 back-up outfits for your newborn. For the adults, something comfortable and casual you would wear around the house if you had friends coming over. For the newborn, keep one swaddle, 1-2 onesies, one sleeper gown outfit.
- Keep ready any accessories or sentimental props you will be using in the photo session. I don't usually use props but if there's a blanket, stuffed toy or something like a vintage crib that you'd like to use, have those ready.
- Choose 1-2 rooms where you would like to do photos in. The main bedroom, nursery or living room are always great contenders. Your home does not have to look like something from a magazine. A home that is lived-in is enough.
- Open all the windows, blinds and curtains in the rooms we will be using. This will give me an idea of how everything looks and if I need to move furniture closer for the best light for your newborn pictures.
- Tidy up any clutter from tables, beds etc but don't "clean". I can move things around as needed. If I miss anything, I can always edit that in Photoshop.
- Make your bed and prepare the babies crib with a clean sheet.
- Turn up the thermostat to 70 Fahrenheit for the duration of the shoot so the baby is comfortable. Babies love warmth! Also pick your outfits based on how warm it will be in the house.
- Turn off any overhead lights. I will be using only natural light for the photos and having any warm/yellow lights on can change the look of the pictures.
- Make sure the kids are fed and you have water. Try to plan a feed for your newborn right before your photographer arrives. Also make sure you and your other kids are fed before so that they are happy.
meet your everett wa newborn photographer
Edlyn G D'Souza is the friendly face behind Seattle maternity and newborn photography business. She lives in Everett WA and specializes in lifestyle family photography. Edlyn works with families in Seattle, Everett, Bothell, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Lynnwood and most surrounding areas in Western Washington. She brings a calm and curious nature to every photo session.
