Bringing home your newborn is one of the most special experiences of your life, so when it’s time to capture those early days, your home is the perfect backdrop— because it’s where your family’s love is felt most deeply. An in-home newborn session should feel like an extension of the love-soaked, intimate environment you’ve created. Here are a few ways you can set the stage for a beautiful, meaningful session that reflects your unique family.
1. Create a Warm, Inviting Atmosphere
Your home holds the heart of your family’s story. Let it shine in your session. Set the mood by playing music that you love. Whether it’s a playlist of your favorite tunes, a playlist from your wedding day, or soothing classical melodies, music can evoke beautiful memories and set the tone for your photos. This is your chance to make the space feel even more like “home.”
2. Create a Comfortable Environment
Newborns are sensitive to temperature, so it's important to keep your home warm during your session. About an hour before we start, bump your thermostat to 75-80 degrees or turn off your air conditioning to ensure your little one stays cozy and comfortable. To maximize natural light, open all curtains or blinds, as I only shoot with natural light. Be sure to turn off any overhead lights or lamps to avoid unwanted shadows and prevent orange skin tones in the photos.
3. Let It Feel Like You
An in-home newborn session is all about capturing the authenticity of your life—your style, personality, and the love you share as a family. This is your time to embrace a romanticized version of your everyday life, whether that means pouring a glass of wine or taking your fur baby for a stroll around the block. Your session shouldn’t feel like a performance, but rather a chance to slow down and enjoy the beauty of your new family. Relax into the comfort of your home, whether you're snuggling on the couch, basking in sunlight, or reading a cherished story. Most importantly, focus on your connection with each other, knowing I’ll be there to guide you through the process. The heart of the session is about capturing those quiet moments of love, laughter, and togetherness.
4. Declutter and Tidy Up Your Home
While your baby will be the focus of most of the photos, some shots will feature your home as the backdrop. Take a few moments to tidy up the areas that receive the most natural light, as we’ll likely be shooting there. Clear away any clutter to create a clean, visually appealing space that will enhance your photos.
6. Incorporate Special Moments
Don’t overthink the “perfect” shot. Instead, focus on what feels meaningful. Take time to engage in those little activities you want to remember forever— rocking your baby, nursing in a cozy chair, or reading a beloved story. These moments— however ordinary— are what will truly tell your family’s story, making your images even more personal and memorable.
7. MOM & DAD
If you're borrowing pieces from the studio wardrobe, I’ll bring them pressed and ready for you to slip into.
- For mom, please wear neutral undergarments that complement your outfit and treat yourself to a manicure or ensure chipped nail polish is removed.
- For dad, remember to remove your Apple Watch, wallet, and keys from pocket.
8. baby
Make sure your little one has a full tummy and a clean diaper before we begin. Ensuring a full belly at the start of our session usually gives us a good head start to get through most of the session before their next feeding, However, we’ll follow their lead, so if a snack break or diaper change is needed, we’ll take it!
9. Siblings
If you have older children, make sure they’re well-rested and fed before the session begins. Adjusting to a new sibling can be a big change, so some extra love, patience, and reassurance will go a long way in helping them feel comfortable and excited for their photos. Don’t worry if they need a little more attention during the session— I’ll help guide them through the process. The goal is to keep everything relaxed and fun, and we’ll take breaks whenever needed to make sure everyone feels at ease! Also, click here to read my tips for a joyful session with your toddler!
10. BE PATIENT & FLEXIBLE
Newborns can be unpredictable, but it's essential to remain patient throughout the session. Remember, our children— even brand new babies— feed off our energy, so take a deep breath, relax, and let things unfold naturally. I won’t be rattled by a crying baby or a toddler who isn’t cooperating, and I don’t want you to be either! Newborns cry, toddlers have a mind of their own, and it’s totally normal. Remember, I’m a mom too, and this is all part of the experience. We’ll make sure we get the precious moments you’ve been dreaming of.
Your newborn session should be a special and stress-free experience–
let me handle all the details, so you can focus on what matters most— cherishing your growing family. If you're ready to schedule a relaxed, personalized session that reflects your family's unique story, reach out today. I can't wait to help you create memories you'll treasure forever!
LEARN MORE
Discover the Unparalleled Expertise of Meredith Maag Photography: Your Premier Newborn Photographer in Columbus, Ohio
Welcoming a newborn is a special chapter in life, and it deserves to be beautifully documented. As a leading Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer, Meredith Maag Photography specializes in capturing these fleeting moments with artistry and authenticity. Whether you're seeking newborn photography in Ohio or looking for a photographer to document your family’s unique journey, Meredith offers personalized, stress-free sessions that reflect the love and connection within your family.
No matter where your family is in your journey, these precious moments deserve to be preserved—because tomorrow, your little ones will be a bit older, and these cherished seasons will become memories. With Meredith Maag Photography, you’ll experience more than just a photoshoot; you’ll receive personalized care, unmatched expertise, and a tailored experience that captures the heart of your family's story.
Whether you choose a cozy, in-home lifestyle session or an outdoor adventure, Meredith’s artistic eye ensures every moment is beautifully documented. From styling assistance using her exclusive studio wardrobe to coordinating professional hair and makeup services, she handles every detail, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience.
Why Choose Meredith Maag Photography?
- Expertise and Experience: Meredith Maag brings years of experience and a deep understanding of newborn photography, establishing herself as a leading Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer. Her expertise ensures that every session is conducted with safety, comfort, and professionalism. As a skilled newborn photographer in Columbus, Ohio, Meredith is trained in handling newborns with the utmost care, ensuring that your little one is safe and secure throughout the session. Her keen eye for detail allows her to capture those tiny, intricate features that make your newborn unique, from the curl of their fingers to the softness of their cheeks. In addition to her technical skills, Meredith's experience extends to working with families of all sizes and dynamics. Whether you're a first-time parent or welcoming another child into your growing family, Meredith's approach as a family photographer in Columbus, Ohio is tailored to meet your specific needs and desires. She understands that every family is different and is committed to providing a personalized experience that reflects your unique story.
- A Passion for Storytelling: Every family has a story to tell, and Meredith Maag is passionate about capturing the narrative of your family's journey as a premier family photographer in Columbus, Ohio. Her photography goes beyond simple portraits; it's about capturing the emotions, connections, and love that define your family. As a leading Columbus, Ohio newborn photographer, Meredith's storytelling approach ensures that each image reflects the authentic essence of your family, creating a visual narrative that you'll treasure for years to come. Meredith's love for storytelling is evident in her ability to capture the moments that often go unnoticed—the gentle touch of a parent's hand, the first smile of your newborn, or the quiet moments of reflection and love. These are the images that truly tell the story of your family's early days, allowing you to look back and remember the feelings and emotions of this special time.
- Stress-Free Experience: Life can be overwhelming, especially with a newborn or small children, which is why Meredith is committed to offering a personalized and stress-free experience from start to finish. Meredith takes care of every detail, so you can simply relax and enjoy these special moments. Each session is customized to reflect your family’s unique style and personality. Whether you prefer intimate moments in the comfort of your home or beautiful outdoor shots, Meredith offers flexible location options that suit your vision. To make things even easier, she provides access to her carefully curated studio wardrobe, ensuring that both mamas and families feel confident and well-dressed without the stress of finding the perfect outfits. For added luxury, Meredith can arrange optional professional hair and makeup services, giving moms the chance to feel pampered and beautiful before the session. Throughout the entire process, her outstanding communication ensures you're never left guessing—every question is answered, and every concern is addressed. From booking your session to selecting your favorite digital files and creating custom artwork, Meredith guides you through each step with one-on-one design consultations. To make your experience even more seamless, she personally delivers and installs any ordered products in your home, ensuring that your cherished memories are beautifully displayed.
Session Options to Fit Every Family's Needs and Budget
Meredith Maag Photography offers a range of session options designed to fit every family’s needs and budget. Whether you're looking for a full, detailed experience or something more streamlined, there's a perfect option for you:
- Signature Session: Ideal for families who want the full photography experience, this session includes a personalized consultation, access to Meredith's studio wardrobe, and optional professional hair and makeup services. You'll also receive a one-on-one design session to select your favorite digital files and customize artwork for your home. This session allows for multiple settings and ample time to capture a variety of moments.
- Simple Session: For families looking for a more focused and shorter session, the Simple Session is a great option. You'll still benefit from the personalized approach Meredith is known for, with styling assistance and access to the studio wardrobe, all within a streamlined and budget-friendly package. Perfect for capturing milestone moments or family portraits without sacrificing quality.
- Membership Options: Meredith's membership options are perfect for families who want to document multiple milestones over the course of a year. This option offers significant value, allowing you to capture maternity, newborn, and family sessions at a discounted rate, ensuring you never miss a moment.
No matter which option you choose, Meredith's approach guarantees a meaningful, stress-free experience, allowing you to create lasting memories while staying within your budget.
KInD WORDS FROM HAPPY CLIENTS
It is an honor to work with countless families in Columbus, Ohio, capturing the magic and beauty in special seasons of their life. Here's what some of my happy clients have to say about their experience:
"Working with Meredith was an absolute dream! She made the entire process so easy and stress-free, from the initial consultation to the final delivery of our images. Her attention to detail and passion for storytelling is truly unmatched, and we couldn't be happier with the beautiful photos of our newborn. Thank you, Meredith, for capturing these precious memories!"
"Meredith's ability to capture the emotions and connections within our family was truly remarkable. Her photography goes beyond simple portraits; it's about capturing the love and warmth that define our family. We are so grateful for the beautiful images she created for us and will cherish them for years to come."
"The in-home lifestyle session with Meredith was everything we hoped for and more. She made us feel so comfortable and relaxed, and the photos she captured are absolutely stunning. Her attention to detail and commitment to creating a personalized experience truly set her apart. We can't wait to work with her again in the future!"
"Just received our album! It is absolutely precious– a treasure no doubt! I cannot thank you enough for your time and talent!"
BOOK YOUR NEWBORn PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION TODAy!
When you choose Meredith Maag Photography, you’re investing in more than photos—you’re investing in timeless keepsakes, stress-free experiences, and a trusted photographer who understands the significance of your family’s milestones. Don’t let these precious moments slip by—contact Meredith today to book your newborn photography session, and start creating artwork you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
