Those first few weeks with a new baby are beautiful, emotional, and honestly… a little bit chaotic. That’s exactly why in-home newborn sessions have become such a popular choice for families here in Minot, North Dakota.

If you’re wondering what an in-home newborn session looks like, how to prepare, or if it’s the right fit for your family, you’re in the right place.

What Is an In-Home Newborn Session?

An in-home newborn session is exactly what it sounds like! I come to you. Instead of packing up a diaper bag, loading the car, and running on very little sleep, you get to stay cozy at home while your newborn’s photos are taken in a space that already feels safe and familiar.

These sessions are relaxed, baby-led, and focused on capturing real moments, snuggles on the couch, tiny fingers wrapped around yours, and your baby in their very first home.

How to Prep for Your In-Home Newborn Session

Good news first: you do not need a spotless house. You just had a baby. That alone earns you a gold star ⭐

Here’s how to prep without adding stress.

1. Pick 2–3 Well-Lit Areas in Your Home

Natural light is key. Before your session, take note of areas in your home that get the best window light during the day. This could be:

• Your living room
• The nursery
• Your bedroom

We only need a couple of spots, and I’ll help guide you once I arrive.

2. Don’t Stress About Cleaning the Whole House

I promise, I am not here to judge your home. You don’t need to deep clean, scrub baseboards, or hide every baby item. I also have a little one, so I can relate to what you are going through!

Focus on:

• Clearing clutter from the specific areas we’ll use
• Making beds and opening curtains

That’s it. The rest can wait.

3. Have Other Kids? Let Them Be Themselves

No pressure for perfect smiles, real life is beautiful.

4. Choose Simple, Neutral Outfits

Neutrals photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your baby and your connection. Think:

• Creams
• Soft grays
• Beige
• Muted earth tones

Avoid bold patterns or logos if possible. Comfort is just as important as style, especially for new parents.

Are In-Home Newborn Sessions Right for You?

An in-home newborn session might be perfect if:

• You want a relaxed, low-stress experience
• You love photos that feel natural and emotional
• You want to document your baby’s first home and real life moments
• Leaving the house with a newborn feels overwhelming

If you’re drawn to cozy, meaningful images that tell your family’s story, this is likely a great fit.

When to Book and Schedule Your In-Home Newborn Session

One of the most common questions I get about in-home newborn sessions in Minot, ND is when should these be booked and photographed?

Book During Your Second Trimester

The best time to book your newborn session is during your second trimester. This guarantees availability around your due date and takes one more thing off your plate before baby arrives. Once your session is on the calendar, all you have to do is let me know when your little one makes their debut.

Photograph Within the First Two Weeks

In-home newborn sessions are ideal within the first 7–14 days after birth. During this time, babies are still very sleepy, love to snuggle, and naturally curl up , which makes for those soft, cozy images parents love.

That said, these sessions are always baby-led. We move at your newborn’s pace, allowing time for feeding, soothing, and breaks as needed.

As a Minot, ND newborn photographer, my goal is to make this experience easy, comfortable, and enjoyable, especially during such a tender season of life. You don’t need perfection. You just need to show up as you are.

If you’re expecting or recently welcomed a baby and are interested in an in-home newborn session in Minot, I’d love to chat and answer any questions you have.

Let’s capture these moments before they slip by 🤍