Welcoming a newborn into your family is a monumental and joyous occasion, and capturing these precious early moments through photography is a wonderful way to preserve these memories. An in-home newborn session in Denver, Colorado, offers a unique and intimate setting, allowing you to document your baby's first days in the comfort of your own home. Here’s some tips to help you prepare for a successful and stress-free in-home newborn session.

1. Choose the Right Photographer

Research and Recommendations:

Start by researching photographers who specialize in newborn photography in Denver. Look for portfolios that resonate with your style preferences, whether that's candid, lifestyle, or posed newborn photography. Ask for recommendations from friends or family and read online reviews. When looking for a photographer, you want to look for consistency in their work. Is their editing similar across all sessions they’re sharing on social media and their website? You want to know what you’re getting and if their portfolio doesn’t look similar across the board, you really don’t know what you might get as an end result. A photographer finds their style with time and experience, so this is when finding an experienced photographer is really important.

Schedule a Consultation:

Once you have a list, schedule consultations to discuss your vision, ask about their experience, and understand their process. Make sure the photographer’s personality and approach align with your expectations. In-home newborn photography is extremely intimate because you’re inviting this stranger into your home. You want to be sure you’re on the same page and that your personalities mesh well.

2. Timing is Key

Ideal Age for Newborn Photos:

Newborn sessions are typically best within the first two weeks of birth when babies are sleepiest. This timeframe helps capture those serene, calm newborn photos you can see all over the internet. This timeframe also helps us to avoid the dreaded baby acne that usually flares around 2-3 weeks.

Book in Advance:

It’s wise to book your session while you’re still pregnant, preferably in your second trimester, to secure a spot around your due date. Photographers who specialize in newborn sessions can be booked months in advance. I prefer you book as soon as you hit the 6 week mark. This insures you don’t have to scramble at the last minute to find a photographer if there’s no availability. You can also take this time to pay towards your session so it’s not all due in one lump sum at the time of your session. You’re going to be exhausted and the last thing you want to worry about when baby arrives is money.

3. Prepare Your Home

Natural Light:

Identify the rooms in your home that receive the most natural light. Photographers prefer working with natural light, which creates soft, beautiful images. Open up curtains and blinds to allow as much light in as possible. I like to photograph newborns in your bedroom, nursery (if you have one), and living room, but I’ll go anywhere there’s good light. I do not use flash, so good natural light is a must.

Declutter:

Ensure the areas where the session will take place are tidy and clutter-free. Simple, clean spaces help keep the focus on your newborn and family. Don’t stress about making your home spotless; photographers are experienced in working around everyday household items. I’ve been known to go through and move anything and everything I do not want in the shot, so please be okay with me moving things around as needed.

Temperature:

Newborns are more comfortable in a warm environment, as they are used to the warmth of the womb. Increase the room temperature a bit higher than usual to ensure your baby stays cozy, especially if they will be photographed without clothes. A space heater is really nice for this if you have one.

4. Gather Essential Items

Outfits and Props:

Prepare a few outfit options for your baby, keeping in mind that simplicity often works best. Soft, neutral colors and simple patterns are timeless choices. Gather any special props or heirlooms you’d like included in the photos, such as blankets, toys, or family keepsakes. Generally speaking, I prefer to keep my sessions as neutral, color wise, as possible so the focus is on baby and so these don’t become outdated in the years to come. Anything bright or fluorescent should be avoided.

Essentials for the Baby:

Have diapers, wipes, and feeding supplies readily available. A pacifier can also be helpful if your baby uses one. Having these items on hand will make it easy to address your baby’s needs quickly during the session.

5. Involve the Whole Family

Coordinate Outfits:

If other family members will be in the photos, plan their outfits in advance. Coordinating colors and styles can create a cohesive look without being too matchy-matchy. Think about complementary colors and simple patterns.

Pets:

If you have pets that you’d like to include in the session, let your photographer know ahead of time. Make sure pets are clean and well-behaved, and consider their temperament when planning their involvement.

6. Relax and Enjoy the Moment

Stay Flexible:

Babies can be unpredictable, and that’s perfectly okay. Your photographer should be experienced in handling newborns and will work around your baby’s schedule, whether they’re fussy, hungry, or need a diaper change. Patience is key, and sessions may take a couple hours to allow for breaks and feedings.

Embrace the Experience:

This session is about capturing the love and connection within your family. Relax and be yourself. Authentic moments often make the most beautiful photographs, so focus on enjoying this special time with your newborn.

Conclusion

An in-home newborn session in Denver, Colorado, offers a wonderful way to capture the intimate, early moments of your baby’s life. By choosing the right photographer, preparing your home, and embracing the experience, you’ll create timeless memories that you’ll treasure for years to come. Remember, the most important part of this session is the love and joy you share as a family—let that shine through in every photo.

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Feral Fern Photography is a professional photographer based in Denver, Colorado, specializing in lifestyle newborn and family photography. With a passion for capturing the genuine connections and precious moments of family life, Feral Fern Photography provides a personalized and relaxed photography experience for families across the Denver area.