September 28, 2026

A close-up of a baby in mom's arms by Katie Stansfield Photography, a Bon Air newborn photographer.

As a Bon Air newborn photographer, I meet with mamas before their session to plan out what they have in mind for their newborn photos. Many of the families I photograph choose to have an at-home newborn session, and with good reason. It is the first place they bring their baby to and where they’re experiencing so many firsts. It’s cozy, it’s sweet, and it’s an easy option for those first few weeks. When families choose an at-home newborn session, I walk them through how to prepare for the session and how to prepare their home, so that everything runs smoothly the day-of. Keep reading for 5 tips on how to prepare for your at-home newborn photoshoot.

A family looking at a baby while mom smiles by Katie Stansfield Photography, a Bon Air newborn photographer.

A mom smiling down at her baby as dad smiles at mom by Katie Stansfield Photography, a Bon Air newborn photographer.

5 Tips to Prepare for Your At-Home Newborn Photos in Bon Air, Virginia

Choose the brightest spaces in your home

When choosing spaces in your home for your newborn photos, consider the light more than the space itself. Natural light is the most important element for in-home newborn photos. It’s best when light in pouring in through windows and the room feels really bright. There may even be sun spots on the floors or walls.

When there’s plenty of natural light, the light that falls on your family and your baby is much more flattering. This leads to pretty skin tones, highlights, and shadows, and really creates that “wow” factor in images.

Walk through your home mid-morning and look for the spaces where light is pouring in through your windows. In most of the homes I photograph, this tends to be in somewhere unexpected, like the dining room, a guest bedroom, or a foyer. Be sure to send your photographer photos and short videos of these spaces to help your photographer plan your session.

Tidy the spaces you’ll use for your Bon Air newborn photos

Your home does not need to be fully clean for newborn photos. I know how it is having a newborn, and how cleaning falls to the bottom of the to-do list. But in those spaces that you’ll be using for your newborn photos, be sure to tidy those spaces of clutter. Look for items on surfaces – on tables, window sills, etc. Do you want those items in your photographs? Look over your windows and see if they need a light cleaning. Some families also choose to remove the blinds from their windows for their photoshoot.

Be prepared for some outdoor newborn photos

To add some variety to their galleries, many families choose to spend some time outside during their newborn session. Consider the front porch, front yard, deck, or backyard. Is there a picturesque tree or garden on your property? Or is there a beautiful walkway? Does your family enjoy time lounging on the front porch? Consider laying out a blanket, too. Newborns often love being outside, and it makes for beautiful images!

Plan outfits that complement your home decor

When planning your outfits, consider what would look best with your home decor. Many families I work with opt for neutrals or small pops of color to nod to the gender of their baby – whites, light blues, and light pinks. Look throughout your home and imaging your photos hanging on your walls.

Trust your photographer

If there is a space with better lighting in your home, your photographer may suggest moving there. Or, if a baby needs comfort, your photographer may suggest swaddling. Some poses may also feel awkward in the moment but photograph beautifully. Lean into your newborn session experience and trust your photographer.

A dad holding a newborn as mom kisses the newborn at a newborn session by Katie Stansfield Photography.