Wondering what actually happens during a newborn session? Whether you’re nervous about how your baby will respond or curious about the process, I’m taking you behind the scenes today to demystify the entire experience. The postpartum and newborn phase is sacred. This fleeting chapter is where your love deepens as your family grows, and every little moment feels profound. As a Phoenix newborn photographer, I’ve developed a process that ensures relaxed, authentically beautiful memories for new parents. 

The Secret Prep Behind Every In-Home Newborn Session

The night before in-home newborn sessions, you’ll find me strategically packing my camera bag and car and double-checking everything I’ll need. 

Preparation for your in-home newborn session is key to making your session relaxing and stress-free. Weeks before your session date, I’ve already asked for information regarding your home– what the lighting is like at certain times of the day, and photos of spaces we’ll likely utilize. With this information, I know what specific lenses or tools I may need to create gorgeous images of your family. 

My pre-session checklist includes:

• The proper lens(and a backup) to accommodate your space
• Extra batteries and memory cards
• A reflector in case I need to bounce light
• A step stool for overhead nursery shots, and because I’m short 
• Wardrobe attire from my curated client closet

For your in-home newborn session:

• I’ll adjust the blinds to let in light
• Have you set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature for a happy baby
• I’ll help clear away the simple clutter that can be seen in the background on the tabletops

When I arrive at your home, I will have you guide me on a tour to seek the best lighting before I bring out my camera. I like to understand which areas of your home will be most picturesque in highlighting the newborn chapter in your life. Perfect lighting is essential in creating photos that you see consistently in my portfolio. Typically, your primary bedroom, nursery, and living room are well-lit and where we’ll spend the most time, as these areas are the heart of your home. 

Having these small details in place BEFORE we begin taking photos allows us all to relax and enjoy the moment. You’ll feel more at ease knowing your home will be beautifully captured.

Baby Whispering Magic

Here’s the thing: babies cry and are unpredictable! My approach to in-home newborn sessions is baby-led, meaning slow, gentle, and not rushed. The best we can do is take our time with learned patience and soothing skills. We utilize techniques from one of the baby books I read and recommend, “The Happiest Baby on the Block” by Dr. Harvey Karp, M.D. In this book, he teaches the art of soothing a baby known as “The 5 S’s,” which includes:

1. Swaddling
2. Side/Stomach Position
3. Shushing
4. Swinging
5. Sucking

For newborn sessions in your home:

• I work with your home’s natural light and environment, capturing authentic moments.
• Invite grandparents, siblings, and furbabies into the frame- these first moments of their relationship with the new baby are pure gold!
• Allow time for feedings and changing, no matter how many times your baby spits up or has a blowout.
• I’ll give gentle direction while still leaving room for the tender in-between moments.

Before your session, I’ll send a detailed preparation guide with tips to help ensure a relaxed experience. Over the years, I’ve compiled a guide full of methods I’ve learned working with newborns and their families throughout the Phoenix area. 

The unexpected moments

Every newborn session goes at its own unique pace. Add in a toddler or a few older siblings, and pets, and it can feel on the brink of chaos. As a mom, I’ve seen it all, and nothing fazes me. 

Want to know a secret? I love these moments. Lifestyle newborn sessions are all about documenting this season of life, including the raw, organic moments. Some of my favorite images are captured during in-home newborn sessions when the wildly unexpected happens. This is when true authenticity is shared within your family, and you get a gallery full of images that resemble your family.

What happens if your baby won’t sleep or settle? That’s totally okay. It’s in those moments of soothing your baby where we find the tender connection between you and your baby. 

In the end, families are amazed at the photos in their gallery amidst the chaos. No matter how much creative direction I give, nothing beats in-the-moment storytelling to capture the uniqueness of your family. 

The transformation process

The time and artistry that go into creating the final gallery are what differentiates me from other Phoenix newborn photographers. After your session, I meticulously curate a gallery that tells your family’s story. Each image is processed with high attention to detail, ensuring your memories are joyful to look back on. 

We then meet again for the Image Design and Ordering Appointment, where you’ll see your images paired with music in a slideshow. This is one of my favorite times within the process as you relive the day of your in-home newborn session. 

You’ll then choose how you’d like to preserve your photographs and create a legacy to pass down for future generations. The most popular products Phoenix families choose for their newborn photographs are albums and wall art. 

Your family will grow quicker than you imagine, and those tiny fingers and toes won’t stay this little forever. Enjoy having these memories of how it all began showcased in your home. Your children will grow with added confidence, surrounded by reminders of how deeply they’re loved. And you’ll treasure the warmth of those early days beautifully preserved in your home for you to look back on for years to come.

BEHIND THE SCENES OF AN IN-HOME NEWBORN SESSION

If you’re dreaming of an experience that honors the beauty and intimacy of this fleeting season, I’d be honored to help you document it. Let’s create timeless images of your family—right where your memories are being made.
Inquire here to begin planning your in-home newborn session.

More from the journal

Queen Creek Photographer: Jasmyn Sambac Photography

Best Scottsdale Restaurants for a Romantic Date Night

Minneapolis Motherhood Session (learn how to prepare)