When I arrived at this family’s apartment for their newborn session, I was greeted by two proud parents, their brand-new baby, and a very excited dog who clearly thought the morning was all about him. From sniffing my camera bag to climbing onto the couch for portraits, he made sure to be in the middle of it all.

That’s exactly what I love about in-home newborn sessions. They’re not just about the baby, they’re about your whole family in this moment of life, in the place you call home. As a New York City newborn photographer, I find these sessions create a natural, comfortable setting where personalities, both human and furry, shine through.

Why In-Home Sessions Work So Well

New parents don’t need one more reason to feel stressed. Getting everyone dressed, packed, and out the door in those first weeks can feel impossible. In-home newborn sessions take all that pressure away.

A few reasons they work so well:

Comfort for Everyone

Your baby stays in the environment they know best. No travel, no temperature changes, no overstimulation. Parents get to relax too, everything you need is right there at home.

Your Story, Your Space

The backdrop is your life. The couch you spend hours rocking on, the crib you carefully set up, even the dog bed in the corner, it all becomes part of the story. Years from now, you’ll look back at these photos and remember not just how tiny your baby was, but what your home felt like during those early weeks.

Flexibility

There’s no strict schedule. If baby needs a feeding, a diaper change, or just a few minutes to calm down, we pause. Everything happens at your family’s pace.

Pets Included

At home, pets don’t just wander into the frame, they’re part of the family. This particular pup made it his mission to be in every shot, and the results couldn’t have been sweeter.

A Glimpse Into This Session

The apartment was filled with soft morning light, perfect for portraits. The baby was swaddled and content, drifting in and out of sleep as I captured the small details, tiny fingers, soft hair, the way he curled perfectly into mom’s arms.

Their dog was determined to be part of it all. He trotted right into the frame while I was photographing the baby on the bed, then hopped up next to dad for the family portraits.

Instead of moving him out of the way, we welcomed him into the story. After all, this dog was their first “baby,” and these photos will always remind them of the way he proudly greeted his new sibling.

Tips for a Smooth In-Home Newborn Session

If you’re considering an in-home session in New York City, here are some things to keep in mind:

Don’t overthink the house. A quick tidy of the main spaces is all that’s needed. I’ll help find the best light, even in a small apartment.
Stick to soft, simple outfits. Babies look timeless in neutral swaddles or onesies. Parents can wear comfortable, solid colors that complement your home.
Prep your pup. A short walk or playtime beforehand can take the edge off extra energy, but don’t worry if they’re curious, it makes for great photos.
Trust the light. Even if you think your apartment is too dark or too small, one good window can be all we need.
Expect pauses. Babies cry, dogs bark, life happens. Some of the best images come from those unscripted moments.

Why NYC Families Love In-Home Sessions

Living in New York, it’s not always easy to get around, elevators, subways, traffic, weather. Staying home eliminates all of that. Plus, your apartment or house becomes part of the memory.

The charm of New York homes, whether it’s a walk-up apartment with brick walls, a bright Queens living room, or a cozy Hoboken space, adds authenticity to your photos. These are the places where your story unfolds, and that’s what makes in-home sessions so meaningful.

Dogs + Newborns = Real Family Portraits

Including pets in newborn photos can feel unpredictable, but it’s worth it. A few things help:

Never leave the baby and dog alone together, even for a second.
Let your dog explore the blanket, sniff the baby, and feel included.
Keep treats handy to reward good behavior.

In this session, the dog alternated between comic relief and calm companionship.

The End Result

When I delivered the final gallery, the family told me how much they loved the balance of tender baby portraits, family cuddles, and all the little ways their dog inserted himself into the morning. These images captured not just what their baby looked like in those first weeks, but what their home felt like, warm, full, and slightly chaotic in the best way.

Thinking About Your Own Newborn Session?

If you’re expecting and live in New York City or Northern New Jersey, an in-home newborn session might be exactly what you need. You’ll stay comfortable, your baby will stay relaxed, and yes, your pets can absolutely join in.

As a New York City newborn photographer, I specialize in capturing honest, natural images that reflect your real life. No stiff poses, no pressure, just your family, your home, and this fleeting moment you’ll want to remember.

Reach out here to schedule your in-home newborn session.

An In-Home Newborn Session in New York City