Hey mama—first things first, congratulations on your sweet new arrival (or soon-to-be)! Whether you’re still counting down the days or your baby is already snuggled in your arms, this season is full of sleepy snuggles, baby yawns, and those precious “firsts” you never want to forget. If you’re thinking about booking a newborn session but don’t love the idea of leaving the house right now, then an in-home newborn photo session might be just what you need.
As a Scranton-based lifestyle newborn photographer serving all of NEPA—Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and the surrounding areas—I specialize in cozy, natural newborn photos captured right in the comfort of your home. So let’s talk about what to expect and why these sessions are so special.
What Is an In-Home Newborn Photo Session?
An in-home newborn session is exactly what it sounds like—a relaxed photo session done in your home, typically within the first 3 weeks after your baby is born. Unlike traditional posed newborn photography, lifestyle sessions focus on real, unposed moments. Think cuddles on the couch, baby wrapped in your arms in their nursery, sweet forehead kisses from big siblings, and soft swaddles and sleepy stretches.
These sessions are filled with emotion and connection—and they reflect your real life in this beautiful (and slightly chaotic!) season.
Do I Need a Picture-Perfect Home?
One of the most common questions I get as a NEPA newborn photographer is: “What if my house isn’t photo-worthy?” You don’t need a pinterest ready home. All I need is a few spots with good natural light—usually your bedroom, the nursery, or the living room. Before I arrive, a quick tidy-up (like clearing nightstands or putting away laundry baskets) is helpful, but perfection is never the goal. Your home tells your story, and that’s what we’re here to capture.
What Should We Wear for Lifestyle Newborn Photos?
When it comes to planning on what to wear, think about the color pallet of your nursery or home. For example, this nursery design has a boho vibe with neutral colors and parents choose to wear neutrals. Choose colors that will compliment each other and avoid matching in all of the same colors. Instead of everyone wearing the same top, mix it up with similar colors in a pallet. I find it helpful to look up color pallets on Pinterest before choosing my outfits. https://www.pinterest.com/vettacapsule/wardrobe-color-palettes/
Baby can wear a swaddle, plain onesie, or just a diaper for those snuggly skin-on-skin shots. After booking, I’ll send you a style guide and can help you coordinate looks that feel true to you.
Is My Baby Too Old for Newborn Photos?
While most families schedule their in-home newborn session within the first three weeks, it’s totally okay if your baby is older. Older newborns might be more awake or expressive, and those moments are just as beautiful. Whether your baby is 3 days old or 6 weeks, we can still create magic together.
Where will we take take the photos?
The session can take place in your baby’s nursery, living room, master bedroom, my studio, or even outdoors. After spending so many months dreaming of all the details of your baby’s nursery this is the time to show it off. However, it could be anywhere in the house. All I need is to open up blinds to allow beautiful natural light. Don’t worry if you don’t have the time to clean perfectly because you just had a baby. Tidy up what you can and I can help move things around if needed.
How Long Does the Newborn Session Last?
Anywhere from 60-90 minutes. Babies are unpredictable so we have to allow time for diaper changes and feedings. If younger siblings are present then we allow more time for them to get comfortable as well. We take breaks when baby needs one, and I’ll gently guide you into positions that feel natural while you cuddle, feed, or just gaze at your sweet little one. There’s no rush—we’ll take our time and make sure we capture a variety of meaningful moments.
What If It’s Cloudy or My House Is Dark?
As your lifestyle newborn photographer, I’m super comfortable working with natural light and can find the best spots even on overcast days. I’ll guide you through everything—we’ll make the most of what your home offers.
How can I prepare for the session?
Try your best to relax and enjoy cuddles with your little one! I will follow the baby’s lead. A few tips that can help are listed below.
- Keep baby awake about an hour before so that they are sleepy when I arrive.
- Give your baby a long feeding to ensure they are content.
- Keep the room warmer then usual if they will be taking photos with less clothing.
- For families with siblings, a good nap and full belly will help. Also, keep some snacks around just in case!
- Have fun and enjoy the cuddles with your family while I create beautiful images for you!
Why Choose an In-Home Session?
Everyone’s more relaxed at home. There’s no need to pack a diaper bag, load the car, or stress about nap schedules. If baby needs a break to eat or get changed, we take our time. If your toddler wants to run and play, that’s perfect! These sessions are slow-paced and baby-led, so the experience is as stress-free as possible. Plus, being in your home means we get to capture all the meaningful little details—baby’s nursery, your cozy bed, the rocking chair where you’ve been spending those early morning hours.
Ready to Book Your In-Home Newborn Session in NEPA?
If you’re in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, or anywhere in Northeast Pennsylvania and dreaming of cozy, heartfelt newborn photos at home, I’d love to talk to you. My goal is to make this experience feel easy and meaningful from start to finis because you deserve to remember this season with images that truly reflect your love and connection.
Reach out today, and let’s plan a relaxed, joy-filled in-home newborn photo session that you’ll cherish forever. Send me an email here! I can’t wait to hear from you.
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