Client Guides, Newborns

February 6, 2025

In-Home vs. Studio Newborn Photos: Which is Right for You?

in home vs studio newborn photos what to choose

In-Home vs. Studio Newborn Photos

Can’t decide between an in-home vs. studio newborn photos? Today’s blog post is for you. Here at Emily Alyssa Photography, I love offering both options for my clients. With either option, you’ll be getting a lifestyle newborn session which simply means the focus is on your natural connections as a family. 

My studio sessions take place at my natural light newborn photography studio in Northern Virginia. In-home newborn sessions take place throughout DC, Maryland and Virginia for an additional fee. Compare each option below!

Studio Newborn Session Benefits

  • No home preparation or cleaning required
  • Everything is set up and ready for you
  • The neutral white walls and hand-painted canvas backdrop give you simple, minimalist, emotion-focused portraits
  • Plenty of natural light allows for sessions rain or shine. We only have to reschedule if we get inclement weather or really dark storm clouds.
  • Easy parking + on-site bathroom.
  • Changing room in the studio and access to the client closet of dresses.
  • Complimentary snacks and water during the session.
  • See photo examples below!

newborn photography studio northern virginia

In-Home Newborn Session Benefits

  • Photos are taken in the comfort of your own home
  • Focuses on creating meaningful, emotional portraits of your newborn in your family’s space
  • Documents special details like the nursery you lovingly put together
  • Comfortable and familiar environment for the baby
  • No need to travel
  • No need to pack a diaper bag – you have everything you need right there.
  • Pets can join the photos! My studio building doesn’t allow them, but I love including them during your in-home sessions
  • See more photos below

in-home newborn photoshoot example photos

Outdoor Newborn Sessions

Thinking of taking newborn photos outside? I’ve done a few of these sessions, and they are so beautiful! There are a few extra considerations to keep in mind for these, however. First, we need to make sure the outdoor temperature is suitable for your newborn. Newborn photos typically take ~1.5 to 2 hours, and baby needs to be comfortable and safe the entire time. The weather here in Northern Virginia is often too cold or too hot for a newborn, so we need to make sure we’re either at a location that offers a temperature-controlled area, or is comfortable enough outside for that length of time.  Some families will also take the majority of photos inside their home, then step outside for a few outdoor photos in their back yard, front porch, or a park just down the street.

Outdoor sessions can be so beautiful, especially if you have a toddler or other children who would like to run around! We can also include natural elements such as flowers, trees, and greenery. I have a couple of baby baskets we can use so baby stays safe and comfortable.

If you want an outdoor session with your baby, but newborn is too soon, you can also book a milestone session around the 3-4 month mark. This can be a great way to get those special photos, but baby is a little bigger and you don’t have to worry about anything during those very early weeks!

Final thoughts

At the end of the day, it truly comes down to your personal preference and what works best for your family. Either way, I recommend booking your newborn session early to ensure you have a spot on my calendar! I take a limited number of sessions each month, and most clients book before baby is here. Get started with the inquiry form below – I can’t wait to meet you!

INQUIRE NOW

how to prepare your home for newborn photos

SHARE  the POST:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *