Newborn Session: In-Home or Studio?

January 30, 2026

Above: In-Home Lifestyle Newborn on the Left, and an In-Studio Newborn on the Right.

 

Happy New Year!

At the end of every busy season I take time in January to reflect and reset my nervous system. The last 2 out of three years, the day after Christmas I get a debilitating migraine that lasts a full day, and I also usually get sick – signs that the last 4 months are too much on my body and mind – and that I need to shift. So, every year I shift a little bit more towards working smarter. In 2026 I want to meet twice as many families in the Maternity/Fresh 48/Newborn session part of my business, so that in 2027 I can retire from weddings. Can you help me reach that goal? If you said a tiny little “yes” in your heart, thank you. The best thing you can do is write a review and tell your expecting friends! (here’s an easy Google link to write a quick review: https://g.page/r/Cec-baypQC6zEAI/review)

As I head toward my third year in the studio, I’ve really found my rhythm shooting in there! I know what light I love best at what time of day and even what time of year! And in my 25th year of business working in different environments, I also thrive on finding great light and beauty in every home and outdoor location.

I’m here today to show you what I can create in the studio for your newborn session, and what I can create in your home – and help you decide which is best for you. (Hint, there is no wrong choice, just how you want your finished images to feel!).

Most importantly: you can decide as late as the day before if you want to be at home or in the studio! That’s the beauty of having my own studio! You are also welcome to take a tour of the studio anytime!

Above: In-Home Lifestyle Newborn portrait on the Left, and an In-Studio Newborn portrait on the Right.

Some pros and cons of each…

STUDIO Session-

Pros:

 

  • Bright, beautiful light all the time!
  • The white and neutral backdrop is great for any outfit color scheme.
  • Free parking
  • You don’t have to do any cleaning at all
  • You get to leave the house!
  • I have a selection of outfit options you can use, as well as some sweet options for baby.

Cons:

 

  • You have to leave your home, which can sometimes be overwhelming, especially with a toddler
  • The personality of your home won’t be captured in the images
  • No photos of your nursery
  • No pets (they are allowed for mini sessions, but not longer sessions)

 

Some favorite in-studio newborn session portraits!

While mom feeds baby, dad takes time to play with big sister on the white backdrop! So sweet!

IN HOME Session-

Pros:

 

  • I find the beautiful light in your own home, capturing nuggets of your family history and the beauty you surround yourself with. This reason alone would be why to do it in your home!
  • You don’t have to leave the house!
  • Your fur babies can be in the photos!
  • You have everything you need: your snacks, comfy place to feed baby, all the stuff you need for changing baby and changes of clothes for you and your partner.

Cons:

 

  • You feel like you have to do a lot of cleaning (even though I will tell you repeatedly that you don’t!)
  • If your home doesn’t get a lot of natural light, I use flash to supplement light (although I’ve gotten quite good at making it look natural, not flashy!)
  • Most importantly, there is no wrong choice! I make beautiful images wherever you are in life, physically and mentally.

 

Some favorite in-home newborn session portraits!

 

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