In-Home VS Studio Newborn Photography Sessions: Pros, Cons, and How to Choose

If you're expecting a baby (or just welcomed one - congrautlations!) you've probably already realized just how many decisions come with a newborn and newborn photography.

One of the biggest questions parents ask me is

"Should we do an in-home newborn session or a studio newborn session?"

There is not a one-size-fits-all answer for this question, but I would love to help you decide which is best for you and your family! Hey there, I'm Mackenzie! I own Mackenzie Slack Photography and I photograph newborns in the Bolivar, Missouri area. If you don't know where that is, we are just about 30 minutes north of Springfield, Missouri.

I want to start by saying that both in-home and studio newborn sessions can be beautiful, meaningful, and worth investing in. The key is choosing the experience that best fits your family in this season of life and what you want to remember from this time.

As a newborn photographer who's worked with families in both settings, I want to walk you through the real pros and cons on in-home newborn sessions vs studio newborn sessions so you can feel confident in your choice.

What Is an In-Home Newborn Session?

An in-home newborn session takes place in the comfort of your own home, usually within the first 1-4 weeks after baby arrives. These sessions are relaxed, baby-led, and focued on capturing your family just as you are in this fleeting season. Think soft window light, cuddles on the couch, tiny fingers wrapped around yours, and nursery details you spent months preparing. When I come to your home, I will bring a curated selection of studio props and wraps with me to capture baby's portraits as well (so don't worry, you are not missing out on those cuties!)

The Pros of In-Home Newborn Sessions

1. Comfort & Convenience (Especially Postpartum)

   There's something incredibly valuable about not having to pack diaper bags or leave the house with a newborn. You can stay cozy, have everything you need and use within reach, and relax in your own space.

2. Your Home Becomes Part of the Story

   Your baby's first home, whether it's perfectly styled or beautifully lived-in, is part of their story. In-home sessions preserve those details... the nursery you dreamed up, the way your dog curls up nearby, the quiet moments that make your house feel like home.

3. Natural, Emotional, Timeless Images

   In-home newborn photography leans more lifestyle-focused. The images tend to feel authentic, connected, and full of emotion.

4. Ideal for Siblings and Pets

   As I said before, everything you need is with you. Toddlers can take breaks and eat snacks. Pets can come and go and feel relaxed and less nervous in their own space. Everyone feels more at ease in a familiar environment.

The Cons of In-Home Newborn Sessions

1. The Look

   Your session will not look like anyone else's, which is an important thing to note. If you dream of a light and air white walled newborn session but your home has dark walls and no natural light, an in-home session may not be the best option for you.

2. Requires a Little Trust

   You're home does NOT need to be Pinterest perfect. However, you do need to be comfortable with letting go of perfection and embracing the realness that is your home. I typically just ask that you have an area for family photos (such as a couch, bed, or even the nursery) that is clear of extra clutter. If that area has natural light, it's definitely a bonus!

What Is a Studio Newborn Session?

A studio newborn session takes place in the photography studio. It's very comfortable and includes lifestyle sets like a bed and couch. It is bright with an entire wall of sheer curtains over the windows, allowing beautiful light to come in.

Pros of Studio Newborn Sessions

1. What To Expect

   While every session is different, just like every family is different - you have a pretty good idea of what your session will look like.

2. Access to Props, Wraps, Accessories

   The studio is stocked with all of the props, wraps, and accessories we could ever want. This gives us unlimited styling options and the option to change our minds if see something else we love!

3. I handle everything

   As your photographer, in the studio space I have the power to handle everything. Theres no need for you to worry about cleaning your space. You just show up and I take care of the rest.

Cons of Studio Newborn Sessions

1. Leaving the House Postpartum

   Getting yourself and a newborn ready to go out can feel overwhelming in those early weeks.

2. Less Personal Environment

   Studio images are beautiful, but they do not include your home or every day life elements.

3. Tighter Timelines

   I schedule 3 hours for all newborn sessions. Typically we are done around the 2 hour mark (maybe 2:30). However - sometimes some babies need a little more sweet talking than others or getting siblings to cooperate can take up a little more time. At home, we have extra time. In the studio, we do not.

So, Which Is Right for You?

Start by asking yourself these four questions:

• Do I want images that feel more documentary and emotional or more polished and posed?

• Would staying home feel more supportive to my postpartum recovery or am I ready to get some fresh air and be in a new space for a while?

• Do I want my home, nursery, or lifestyle included in our photos?

• Do I want all the options for baby's photos at my fingertips or am I ok with selecting a smaller collection for my photographer to bring?

There are no wrong answers. There is only what feels right for you!

My Approach to Newborn Photography

I believe newborn photos should feel calm, connected, and deeply meaningful. Whether we're working in your home or in the studio, my priority is always your baby's safety, your comfort, and telling your sweet family's story as best as I can. If you're on the fence, I'm always happy to talk through your options, look at your home photos and give you my honest opinion, and help you decide what best fits your vision for your baby's newborn session.

Final Thoughts

The newborn stage goes so fast. The tiny stretches and yawns, sleepy snuggles, and soft newborn features change faster than we expect them to. Choosing the right type of newborn session isn't about trends or perfection, it's truly about preserving this chapter of life in a way that feels good to you.

If you're expecting and wondering whether an in-home or studio newborn session is best for your family, I'd love to connect and help you plan an experience that feels supportive, beautiful, and stress-free.

These days and your hard work in creating this beautiful little life deserve to be remembered and documented in the most beautiful way!

Mackenzie