How to Prepare for a Chicago In-Home Newborn Session This Winter

For all the Chicago parents expecting their bundle of joy this winter—I am so excited for you.
We welcomed our daughter Sofia during the winter last year, and the memory of starting the newborn phase wrapped in cozy blankets, watching the snow fall outside, still brings back the warmest feelings. Winter babies have a special magic, and so do in-home newborn sessions.

If you’re planning yours, here’s everything you need to know.

1. When to Book Your Newborn Session

The sweet spot for newborn photos is typically between 5–12 days after birth (or within the first two weeks). During this time, babies are naturally sleepier and more curled, which allows us to capture those peaceful, cuddly poses everyone loves.

That said—every baby is different.
I’ve photographed:

• 3-week-old babies who still behaved like brand-new newborns
• 2-month-old babies full of smiles and bright curiosity

No matter the stage, your photos will reflect your baby exactly as they are—beautiful, perfect, and deeply loved. There is no wrong time to document your story.

2. Planning Outfits (One of the Most Fun Parts!)

I always suggest choosing outfits ahead of time—consider it part of your nesting phase. Having wardrobe decisions made early helps you feel prepared and excited for your session.

Recommended colors: whites, creams, and soft pastel blues or pinks.
These tones photograph beautifully indoors and complement winter’s soft light.

For mom:
A knee-length or longer dress in a neutral shade—comfortable, flattering, and timeless.

For dad:
Elevated casual—think a collared shirt and khakis. Simple and clean.

For siblings:
Coordinate with the family palette using soft neutrals or gentle pastels.

For baby:
We can keep it simple with a neutral onesie, a cozy knitwear piece, or I can swaddle your little one in natural-toned wraps.

Shoes:
Barefoot is best. It adds to the cozy, at-home feeling and keeps the focus on connection.

3. Which Areas of the Home to Prepare

For in-home newborn sessions, I usually photograph in:

• the living room
• the nursery
• the master bedroom

Any room with good natural light is ideal.

Before I arrive, you don’t need to deep clean—just a quick declutter of the spaces you want photographed. Removing extra items from nightstands, side tables, and counters helps create clean, timeless images.

4. How to Know if Your Home Is Ideal for Newborn Photos

If you’re wondering whether your home will work for a newborn session, here are the two things that matter most:

Good natural light
I photograph using window light only, and I’ll ask to turn off lamps and overhead lights to keep skin tones natural and soft.

Neutral wall colors
White or neutral walls help avoid color casts and keep your photos bright, clean, and timeless.

And if your home isn’t perfectly lit or perfectly styled—please don’t worry. I’ve photographed in every type of Chicago home, from city apartments to suburban houses, and beautiful images can be created almost anywhere.

5. The Magic of Photographing Your Baby at Home

Your home is where your baby’s story begins.
It’s where you spent those first quiet moments, where you rocked them at 2 a.m., and where your family began its next chapter. Years from now, your children will look back at these photos and see not just their tiny features—but the place where their life started.

In-home newborn sessions are meaningful, stress-free, and cozy—especially during Chicago’s winter months. No travel, no freezing wind, no car seat buckles in the cold. Just warmth, love, and your family exactly as you are.

If you’re expecting your winter baby soon and would love cozy, heartfelt photos in the comfort of your home, I’d be so honored to document this season for your family.

Reach out here to book your newborn session and start planning a beautiful experience you’ll treasure forever.