Welcoming a new baby into the family is one of the most magical moments in life, and the first few weeks are filled with countless memories you'll want to treasure forever.

An at-home family photoshoot is the perfect way to document this special time, capturing natural, heartfelt images in the comfort of your own space.

Here are my tips for making the most of your photoshoot with a new born baby, including how to use different areas of your home, outfit planning, and creating variety in your images to build a beautiful first family collection.

1. Choosing the Right Spaces in Your Home

One of the best parts of an at-home session is the ability to incorporate meaningful and familiar areas of your home into your photos. This adds a personal touch and creates a warm, intimate feel to your images.

The Living Room

- The living room often has great natural light and is a versatile space for cosy family portraits. Use the sofa, an armchair, or even a soft blanket spread on the floor to set up comfortable spots for cuddling with your baby.

- Tip: If your living room has large windows, position your family nearby to make the most of the natural light.

The Nursery

- The nursery is a must for any baby photoshoot. It's a space you’ve lovingly designed and is often filled with thoughtful details like their crib, wall art, or favourite stuffed animals.

- Focus on quiet, tender moments: mum rocking her baby, dad peeking over the crib, or your baby resting peacefully in her room.

The Master Bedroom

- Your bedroom offers a relaxed setting for intimate family shots. A large bed can act as a soft, neutral backdrop for cuddles and playful moments.

- Ideas: Lay baby in the centre of the bed for solo shots, or gather around them for family snuggles and tickles.

The Kitchen or Dining Area

- While unconventional, the kitchen can offer a bright, unique location, especially if you have large windows or a clean, minimal design. Sit at the dining table together or capture candid moments like making coffee with your baby nearby.

- This works well for families who want a more lifestyle, less posed vibe.

2. Outfit Planning for the Whole Family

The key to beautiful, cohesive photos is coordinating outfits without being overly matching. Since this is an at-home session, comfort and simplicity are key.

Soft, Neutral Tones: Stick to soft whites, creams, pastels, or muted tones that will create a timeless and calm aesthetic. Avoid bold patterns or logos that may distract from your baby.

Mum A flowy dress or comfortable top paired with jeans can look both effortless and elegant.

Dad A simple henley, button-up shirt, or cozy knit in a neutral color complements the soft aesthetic beautifully.

Baby Soft onesies, muslin swaddles, or a delicate dress, leggins will keep them cosy and looking adorable. Add little details like a headband or booties for variety.

Coordinating Textures Incorporate cosy fabrics like knits, cotton, and linen to add warmth and depth to the photos.

Bonus Tip: Have a couple of outfit options on hand, both for baby and yourselves, in case of spills or to create variety in your images.

3. Creating Variety in Your Photos

To create a well-rounded family collection, it’s important to include a mix of images that capture your connection, the little details, and individual moments.

Full Family Portraits

- Start with classic family poses where everyone is together—sitting on the sofa, standing near a window, or snuggling on the bed.

- These images will become the cornerstone of your family collection.

Close-Up Details

- Capture the tiny details: your baby fingers wrapped around yours, there little feet peeking out from there swaddle, or the way they gaze up at you.

- These close-up shots add tenderness and texture to the gallery.

Solo Shots of Baby

- Place them gently on the bed, a cosy blanket, or in there crib for solo images. Swaddle them for a peaceful sleeping shot or capture their natural expressions when they are awake and curious.

Parent and Baby Moments

- Photograph tender moments of each parent with their baby. For example:

- Mum cradling baby in her arms.

- Dad holding baby close against his chest.

- Gentle forehead kisses or shared smiles.

Candid, Lifestyle Shots

- Let the moments unfold naturally: reading a book together in the nursery, enjoying quiet cuddles in bed, or simply relaxing on the sofa. These everyday interactions will feel genuine and timeless.

Sibling or Pet Involvement

- If there are older siblings or pets, include them in a few shots to complete the family dynamic. Whether it’s big brother leaning in for a kiss or the family dog snoozing nearby, these moments add personality and warmth.

Your baby will only be this little for a short while, and these precious moments deserve to be documented with care. By using different areas of your home, thoughtfully coordinating outfits, and creating a mix of posed and candid shots, you can build a first family collection that feels natural, beautiful, and full of love.

An at-home session allows you to slow down, relax, and enjoy this fleeting stage as a family. So, snuggle up, hold them close, and let the magic of your home tell your story.

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