(Spoiler: It doesn’t need to be Pinterest-perfect)

At-home photography sessions have a magic all their own. There’s something incredibly special about capturing your family right where life happens – baking in the kitchen, snuggling on the couch, reading your favorite stories, or chasing little feet down the hallway.

But we get it, inviting a photographer into your home can feel…intimidating. What if the house isn’t spotless? What if your toddler’s toys are everywhere? What if it doesn’t look like that dreamy Pinterest photo?

Take a deep breath because we’ve got you. You don’t need a magazine-worthy house to have beautiful, heart-filled photos. In fact, some of the best images happen when life looks a little real. That said, here are three simple ways to prep your home (and yourself!) to feel photo-ready without the stress.

 

1. Clear, Don’t Clean

Say it with us: “Clear, not clean.”

You do not need to deep-clean your house top to bottom. Instead, focus on removing visual distractions in the areas your photographer will likely use, like your living room, master bedroom, or nursery.

✅ Tuck away wires, clutter, water bottles, and anything that doesn’t serve the vibe

✅ Wipe off mirrors and windows to let in that natural light

✅ Make the bed and fluff the pillows – fresh bedding can go a long way!

Think cozy, not clinical. A lived-in home with good light and a few personal touches beats a showroom any day.

2. Let the Light In

Natural light is everything when it comes to at-home sessions.

The day of your shoot, open up those blinds and pull back any heavy curtains. We’ll chase the best light in your home, whether that’s your breakfast nook, the kids’ playroom, or your sun-soaked front porch.

Tip: If your session is scheduled during nap time or after the sun dips too low, we can always adjust. Just let us know your lighting situation in advance and we’ll guide you from there.

3. Add a Few Cozy Touches

Personal details make your photos truly yours.

Here are a few easy ways to add warmth and connection:

• Have your kids pick a favorite book to read on camera
  
• Bake cookies or pancakes as part of your session (mess and all!)
  
• Throw a comfy blanket over the couch or bed
  
• Light a candle or play soft music to help everyone relax
  

The goal? Documenting you – the laughs, the chaos, the cuddles, the quiet in-between moments that happen in the place you call home.

At-home sessions are the perfect mix of meaningful and relaxed. With just a few small tweaks, you’ll create a backdrop that feels authentic, beautiful, and 100% “you.” And don’t worry – we’ll guide you through every step.

Want to see what a real storytelling session looks like?

Click here to explore our Fall Storytelling sessions »

Or reach out to chat about customizing your session – we’d love to hear more about your home and what makes it special.

P.S. Book your in-home session before Nov 2025 and save $250