When I say you don’t need a spotless, magazine-worthy house to have beautiful at home newborn pictures, I mean it. This cozy in-home session with Ashley, Braxton, Avery, and baby Millie all took place in one room… and it was pure magic from start to finish!

Ashley first reached out to me on Facebook after seeing a post about our move to the Bay Area. We chatted back and forth, and the moment she sent over a photo of their nursery, with that ornate gold-framed mirror and a wall of natural light pouring in, I was immediately inspired and dreaming up ideas for days. It was literal and figurative gold, and I knew right away we’d create something timeless and beautiful together.

One Room, One Window, So Much Heart

The session took place entirely in the nursery of their military housing home. A space no bigger than 10×12 feet, with one large window and a mirrored wall that bounced light around like a built-in reflector. Neutral walls and dark furniture set the scene. The brightness of the room, the simplicity of the styling, and the love between this family brought it all together.

From the moment I walked in, 2-year-old Avery took on the role of host like it was her full-time job. She welcomed me with open arms, gave me a full toddler-style tour of the house, and made it very clear we were now best friends. (She was so sad when it was time for me to leave, which, absolutely melted my heart.)

Braxton, the quietest one in the room, was also the most easy-going dad, and you can tell he was a pro. He barely needed direction, posing so naturally with both of his daughters that I found myself stepping back just to let the moments unfold.

Ashley held Millie in the glow of that soft window light, radiating that quiet strength and warmth only a mother can bring. The kind that anchors the whole room without saying a word. I later found out she’s a nurse, which honestly makes so much sense. I’ve always found myself working with clients in service-oriented roles…teachers, nurses, military couples, etc., and I truly believe it’s because we just get each other.

What You Actually Need for At Home Newborn Pictures

Here’s what I want every parent reading this to know: you don’t need a giant house. You don’t need every room cleaned and staged. You don’t even need the nursery to be done.

You need:

• One room with great natural light (we’ll figure that out together)
• Cleared surfaces (think: nightstands, changing tables, dressers, floors)
• Neutral or soft-toned outfits (which I’ll help you coordinate)
• A space where you can relax and be present

That’s it. The rest? I’ve got you covered.

The Smallest Details Tell the Biggest Story

One of my favorite images from the session is a quiet, layered moment. Ashley’s holding Millie in soft focus, and in the corner of the mirror, you can just barely see Braxton entertaining Avery with a quick affection of “noses” in the background.

These kinds of images are the reason I love providing at home newborn pictures. They’re not just portraits…they’re windows into what your life actually feels like right now. A little messy, a little sweet, and unforgettable.

Interested in scheduling your own at home newborn pictures?

If you’re in the Bay Area and wondering if your home would work for an in-home newborn session, the answer is probably yes. We’ll walk through everything together, from the light to the outfits to the little details that make your space feel like home.

You don’t need perfect. You just need present.

Reach out HERE to book your newborn session or get more details!