Nicole Hawkins Photography

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Newborn Photography: Should You Choose an In-Home or Studio Session?

Congratulations on your upcoming arrival! Whether this is your first baby or your seventh, capturing those fleeting newborn moments with a professional photographer is a wonderful way to create lasting memories. But you might be wondering: in-home or studio session?

Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option to help you decide what's best for you:

In-Home Newborn Photography

Pros:

  • Comfort and Relaxation: Stay comfortable and relaxed in your own familiar environment. No packing a diaper bag or traveling with a little one, allowing you to focus on bonding with your newborn and attending to their needs. This can be especially beneficial for moms who are still recovering from childbirth.

  • Perfect Lighting, Anywhere: While natural light is beautiful, it can be unpredictable in homes. I will bring a portable lighting setup to ensure beautiful results, regardless of your home's natural lighting. 

  • Sibling Harmony: Familiar surroundings can help older children feel more at ease during the photoshoot. This can lead to more natural interactions with their new sibling, capturing genuine moments of connection and tenderness. In the comfort of your own home, older siblings can play with their toys or take breaks as needed, reducing stress and leading to more cooperative behavior during the session.

  • A Snapshot of Your New Reality: Capture your nursery's special touches, creating a visual record of your home as it was when you welcomed your little one. These photos will not only showcase your newborn's delicate features but also document the loving environment you've created for them.

Cons:

  • Space Constraints: While we can work in a variety of spaces, we should have enough room for photography equipment and allow for some flexibility in posing your newborn. If you're unsure about your home's suitability, don't hesitate to reach out! We can discuss your space and offer suggestions to ensure a smooth and successful session.

  • Tidying Up: One of the downsides to home sessions is that a little tidying up beforehand might be necessary. This could involve clearing a designated space for the shoot and removing any clutter that might be distracting in the final images.

Studio Newborn Photography

Pros:

  • Just Show Up: The studio environment is designed specifically for newborn photography, with backdrops, props, and lighting meticulously arranged to create a picture-perfect setting. This allows you to arrive relaxed and ready for your session without any worries about making your home photoshoot-ready.

  • Guaranteed Lighting: Studio lighting ensures consistent, high-quality results. Professional studio lighting allows for precise control over light and shadow, creating a controlled environment that produces flawless newborn portraits. This is especially beneficial if you're drawn to a particular style of newborn photography or have specific lighting preferences.

Cons:

  • Traveling with a Newborn: Especially for high-risk pregnancies or recovering mothers, traveling with a newborn can feel daunting. The studio environment, while comfortable, may not feel as familiar or relaxing as your own home. 

  • Less Personal Space: The studio environment, while beautiful, lacks the personal touch of your own home. The photos will capture stunning details but may not reflect the specific details and decor that make your house a home.

Complimentary Wardrobe, Regardless of Location

At Nicole Hawkins Photography, we strive to make your experience as relaxed and stress-free as possible. We understand that choosing outfits for your newborn can be overwhelming. That's why we offer a selection of beautiful outfits (for every family member) readily available for both studio and in-home sessions. In our pre-session planning meetings, you will choose the outfits that speak to you and match your vision. Then, on the day of the session, I will have them cleaned and steamed, ready to bring with me to your home or simply waiting for you at the studio. 


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