How to Prepare Your Home for a Newborn Lifestyle Session

By Christin Coats | Christin Coats Photography

Bringing your baby home is one of the most tender, emotional, joy-filled seasons of life. These early days are beautifully raw and real—and that’s exactly why I love capturing them through lifestyle photography.

If you’ve booked a newborn session with me (or you’re thinking about it), here’s the good news: you don’t need a picture-perfect house or magazine-worthy nursery. You just need you, your baby, and a little preparation to help the session feel relaxed, meaningful, and full of heart.

Here’s how to get your home ready—without the stress:

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1. Choose a Few Key Spaces with Good Light

I’ll likely shoot in the rooms that offer the best natural light—usually the nursery, primary bedroom, and/or living room. Before I arrive, take a quick walk through your home and notice where the light pours in during the time of day we’ll be shooting. Open blinds and curtains, and let that light in!

Don’t worry if your whole house isn’t bright. We’ll work with what we have—and the results will still be beautiful.

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2. Tidy, But Don’t Deep Clean

Your home doesn’t need to be spotless (you just had a baby—grace is the theme here!). Just focus on clearing clutter from the areas where we’ll be shooting—like nightstands, dressers, or coffee tables. Tuck away water bottles, cords, laundry piles, etc., but don’t stress over the rest.

I promise, I’m not photographing your baseboards—I’m capturing your connection.

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3. Keep Baby Cozy and Content

Before the session, feed your baby and make sure they’re comfy. A full tummy and a warm swaddle work wonders. If baby gets fussy—that’s okay! We’ll take breaks for feeding, snuggles, and whatever else your little one needs. That’s the beauty of lifestyle sessions—they follow your baby’s rhythm.

Have a couple of neutral swaddles or onesies on hand, but no need for elaborate outfits. Simple is beautiful.

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4. What to Wear: Keep It Soft + Simple

Think cozy, soft textures and neutral or earthy tones. Light colors photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your connection with baby. You don’t all need to match—just coordinate with soft, complementary tones. Bare feet, snuggly knits, flowy robes or dresses—all perfect.

And if you’re not feeling your best postpartum (which is so normal)—know that I will pose you gently and intentionally, highlighting the beauty of this season in a way that feels true and honoring.

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5. Be Present—Not Perfect

This session isn’t about perfectly posed moments—it’s about love. The way your baby settles into your chest. The way your partner looks at the two of you. The way your home wraps around this brand-new life you’ve created.

So let go of the pressure. Breathe it all in. And let me take care of the rest.

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Final Thoughts

Newborn lifestyle sessions are some of the most meaningful work I get to do. These photos will carry the memory of what it felt like in those early days—sleepy eyes, soft cries, and heart-bursting love.

If you’re ready to tell that story, I’d be honored to help you capture it.

Let’s create something real, beautiful, and lasting—together.

www.christincoatsphotography.com

@christincoatsphotography