5 Tips for a Cozy In-Home Newborn Session in Duluth | With Love Photography

By With Love Photography – Duluth Newborn Photographer

Bringing your baby home is such a tender, transformative time. There’s nothing quite like those first days—milk-drunk smiles, tiny coos, soft swaddles, and the quiet chaos of figuring it all out. As a Duluth newborn photographer who’s also spent years supporting families as a doula, I know just how sacred this season is.

And when it comes to photographing it? Home is my favorite place to be.

An in-home newborn session is a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and capture your family in your own space—the space where your story is unfolding day by day. No need to pack up your diaper bag or wrestle with car seats. Just soft light, snuggles, and the kind of storytelling that lets your love shine.

Here are a few simple tips to make your in-home newborn session in Duluth as cozy and stress-free as possible:

1. Keep It Comfy—But Not Too Warm

While it’s true that babies tend to love being cozy, I don’t rely on a warm room to keep them sleepy—and I never want to make postpartum moms feel overheated (hello, hormone sweats!). If it’s a chilly Duluth winter day, a slight bump in the thermostat can help keep baby content, but there’s no need to overdo it. We won’t be doing those heavily posed shots that require extra heat. Just cuddles, connection, and comfort—for everyone.

2. Let the Light In

Natural light is my best friend. Before your session, open up the curtains and blinds and turn off all overhead artificial lights —usually the living room, nursery, or master bedroom. I’ll take a peek around when I arrive and gently guide you to the best-lit spaces. Want to know more about what to expect during an in-home newborn session? I walk you through it here.

No need to deep-clean or redecorate. We’re not aiming for perfection—we’re capturing your real, lived-in love.

3. Feed + Snuggle Beforehand

A well-fed baby is a happy baby. Try to time a feeding right before our session begins. If baby needs to eat mid-shoot, that’s totally okayI always build in time for that. And of course, your baby’s safety and comfort are my top priority throughout. Here’s a look at the newborn safety tips I follow during every in-home session. Some of my favorite images are the quiet, emotional moments of nursing or bottle-feeding. You set the pace—I’m just here to follow the rhythm of your family.

4. Keep Outfits Simple + Soft

Neutral tones, cozy knits, and textures photograph beautifully — especially when paired with the relaxed, storytelling style of lifestyle photography. Here’s why Duluth moms love this natural, heart-led approach to newborn photos. I bring a small selection of newborn outfits you’re welcome to use—think timeless, not trendy. For parents and siblings, stick with soft colors and comfortable clothes that feel like you.

You don’t need to match. You just need to compliment.

5. Embrace the Beautiful Mess

There might be dishes in the sink or laundry in the corner. There might be a toddler who refuses to wear pants. There might be a baby who needs to be held the entire time. That’s real life.

And that’s exactly what I want to document.

As your Duluth newborn photographer, I’m not showing up with expectations—I’m showing up with a heart wide open to whatever your day looks like. Because these are the photos you’ll treasure someday. The ones that take you back.

If you have older siblings joining the session, don’t worry—I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve. Here’s how I approach sibling shots during in-home newborn sessions, especially when toddlers bring their big energy to the room.

Ready to book your cozy in-home newborn session?

If you're looking for a Duluth newborn photographer who will hold space for your story with tenderness, intention, and a whole lot of heart—I'm your girl. I travel from Hibbing to Duluth regularly and would be honored to capture your growing family right at home.

📸 Click here to book your newborn session with With Love Photography
Or reach out with any questions—I’m always happy to chat.

With love,
Brooke

Related Posts You Might Love:

• What to Expect During an In-Home Newborn Session

• Doula Skills Behind the Lens: How My Doula Training Elevates Your Birth Photography Experience

• When to Book Newborn Photos | Duluth MN Newborn Photographer