If you are here, you are either expecting a little one or just welcomed a new addition to your family! Congratulations! I have photographed many new mothers (and been one myself), and I have learned a few tricks along the way. If you are preparing for a newborn session, here's what I recommend:


  • Light matters.

I photograph newborn sessions at your home between 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. when the most light is coming through your windows. We can photograph in nurseries, living rooms, master bedrooms, or front porches - any area where beautiful light exists. If there is a specific room you would like to photograph in, I recommend selecting a session time where the most light is coming through the windows. If you ever have any questions, you can also snap a photo of the room in the morning and in the afternoon to send my way, and I can help recommend the best timing!

  • Prep your home.

Turn off all overhead lights and lamps to get that true natural light setting. Open blinds and pull curtains open to allow the most light to come through your windows. Remove any clutter (especially on nightstands) to keep distractions away from your images.

  • Neutrals are always a great option.

I always recommend neutral color clothing especially for in-home sessions because of the way light reflects. Light comes through your windows. If you are wearing a bright color, it will reflect onto yours and baby's skin tones. Neutral color walls are also what I am looking for with in-home sessions as they help balance skin tones as well (if you are thinking of painting the nursery, think neutrals). Muted versions and soft pastels of pinks, blues, and greens are also great options for outfits. I send a style guide when client's book to expand on what to wear. Also, I bring neutral color swaddles, bows, neutral onesies, and diaper covers with me to every newborn session.

  • A full tummy equals a sleepy baby.

Babies usually follow the eat, play, sleep schedule. I recommend feeding baby 15-30 minutes prior to our session with hopes of baby falling asleep once we begin.

  • Crank up the heat.

Newborns love to feel warm and cozy. Feel free to crank up the heat prior to our session (especially if it is cold outside) so we can easily photograph those hand and feet detail shots.

Looking for a Baton Rouge Newborn Photographer? I'd love to chat!


Thanks for reading! I’d love to hear if these were helpful for you – comment below!

XOXO - Ashley



Ashley is a lifestyle photographer from Baton Rouge, LA specializing in maternity, newborn, milestone, and family sessions. When is she not photographing, you can catch her with her boys searching for garbage trucks.