Welcome, Parents!

Lifestyle Newborn Information

Whether I just saw you for your maternity session or we’re meeting for the first time at your newborn session, I’m truly honored to be a part of this season in your life.

Bringing a new baby into the world is such a big moment, and my goal is to make this experience as smooth, relaxed, and meaningful as possible for you and your family.

This guide will help walk you through what to expect from your in-home newborn session. We’ll go over how it works, how to prepare, and how we’ll create beautiful, heartfelt images together.

Close-up of a sleeping baby lying on a soft surface, resting its head on its arm, with dark hair and expressive eyes. In-home newborn session by Vanessa Underwood Photography based near Amarillo, TX.

A black-and-white photo of a baby lying on a soft, textured blanket, looking at the camera with a neutral expression. In-home newborn session by Vanessa Underwood Photography near Amarillo, TX.

What to Expect

A Lifestyle Approach

My photography style is lifestyle-focused, which simply means your baby leads the way. I won’t bring big studio lights or ask you to pose stiffly. Instead, I’ll meet you in the comfort of your home and gently guide the session while following your baby’s natural rhythm.

If they’re sleepy, we’ll lean into that and capture all the cozy snuggles. If they’re wide awake and alert, we’ll celebrate those bright-eyed moments. If they’re hungry, they’ll eat. I recommend feeding your baby about 15 minutes before the session begins, but it’s not required. The goal is to keep them comfortable, not overfed.

Smiling baby wrapped in a white blanket on a textured white surface. In-home newborn session by Vanessa Underwood Photography based near downtown Amarillo, TX.

When I Arrive

I’ll start by introducing myself and chatting with you and your family for a bit. Then I’ll take a quick look around to find the best light. Usually, we end up in the nursery, on the couch, or in the primary bedroom.

Please don’t feel pressured to clean.
Truly. I know what those first few weeks feel like. I’ve been there. I personally experienced postpartum depression, and I understand that sometimes getting through the day is the biggest victory. If something needs to be moved for a cleaner photo, I’ll gently take care of it. Most of the images I take are close and intimate, so clutter usually isn’t a concern.

How Long Will It Take?

Sessions typically last between 1 to 2 hours. I built in extra time for feeding breaks, diaper changes, and those moments when the baby just needs to be held. I’ll have my camera out the whole time, quietly capturing the little in-between moments that often become favorites.

Your Baby

I fully believe we are all perfect in our own way, and that includes your baby just as they are.

Here’s what works best for the session:

Dress your baby in a simple, snug onesie (solid color, no graphics or words)
Have a few of your favorite swaddles or blankets nearby so we can wrap them gently. (not required)
At some point, I may capture a few sweet, natural shots of your baby without clothing, always keeping them safe and warm.

The Flow of the Session

Your session will be relaxed and baby-led, but I do have a workflow I typically follow to help keep things moving while giving everyone space to be themselves. Please keep in mind that every session is unique. This is just a general guide, and your specific flow might look different based on your baby’s needs.

We usually start with family photos, so everyone is involved from the beginning. From there, I will focus on siblings if they are part of the session. We then move into photos with parents, followed by portraits of the baby with each parent individually.

I typically end the session with the baby alone. Whether we keep them free and natural or use a simple swaddle to help them feel safe and cozy, my goal is to keep them comfortable while cradled gently in your arms or in their own space. Throughout the session, I will have you step in to soothe your baby as needed. Bonding during this time is so important, and I always want your baby to feel safe and supported in your arms.

Including Parents

Yes, this session is all about your new little love, but you’re part of the story too. Don’t be surprised if I gently encourage you to hold your baby for a few portraits. These quiet, connection-filled moments are often some of the most meaningful.

Not sure what to wear?
Here are a few tips:

Stick with neutral colors (creams, whites, grays, soft earth tones)
Avoid bold prints or logos
Comfort over everything else. You’re recovering and adjusting, so dress in whatever feels like you

A black and white photo of a baby lying on a textured surface, with a person gently holding the baby's head. In-home Newborn session photographed by Vanessa Underwood, newborn photographer serving Amarillo and surrounding areas.

A woman holding a newborn baby while sitting on a bed, with a man leaning in close, smiling at the baby. Photographed in the comfort of home by Vanessa Underwood, newborn photographer serving Amarillo and surrounding areas.

Final Thoughts

This season of life is full. Full of love, full of change, full of emotion. It’s okay if things don’t go perfectly. My job is to show up with calm energy, a kind heart, and my camera so you can just focus on being present with your baby.

I can’t wait to help you remember this fleeting time exactly as it is.

Black and white photo of newborn photograph of Belly button photo taken by Underwood Family Photography an Amarillo, Texas Photographer

newborn baby photographed in dads arms laying on dads chest photo taken by underwood Family photography an Amarillo Photographer