Planning an in-home photo shoot can feel a little overwhelming, especially when you want your space to look just right for the camera (and are comparing your real, lived-in home to what you see on Pinterest). But here’s the truth: your home, just as it is, is the perfect backdrop for capturing your family’s most genuine, heartfelt moments. In this blog, I’ll share my favorite tips and tricks for styling a clutter-free in-home photography session that highlights your unique story (without the stress!).
Before we dive in though, hi! Take a deep breath. I’m Natasha, a Washington, D.C.-based photographer who specializes in warm, genuine in-home photo shoots for families and newborns. I’m passionate about capturing those real, heartfelt moments that tell your unique story—right where you feel most comfortable: in your own home.
When I’m not behind the camera, I mentor fellow photographers, helping them build businesses they’re proud of. Want to see more behind-the-scenes of my in-home sessions? Feel free to reach out or follow me on Instagram—I’d love to connect!
Why Choose an In-Home Photo Shoot?
Before diving into styling tips, let’s talk about why an in-home photo shoot might be the perfect fit for your family. Unlike traditional studio sessions, photographing you in your own home brings an intimacy and authenticity that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. Your home tells your story—from how the light filters through your windows to the favorite toys scattered across the living room floor.
This setting allows your family (especially your kiddos!) to be fully relaxed and be yourselves. There’s no rush, no pressure—just you, your loved ones, and the beautiful life you’ve built together. And yes, that includes capturing all those wonderfully imperfect moments that make your family unique.
Worried Your Home Looks a Little Too “Lived In”? You Don’t Have To Be
If you’ve been around my corner of the Internet for a while, you might wonder why I often photograph families whose homes feature bright, white, or neutral interiors. The truth is, that’s not always the case. And your home absolutely doesn’t need to be bright or all-white to make for a stunning in-home photo shoot.
Most of my clients don’t have pristine white walls or perfectly neutral décor either. Their homes, just like yours, are lived in, loved, and full of personality. The good news? That lived-in feeling is precisely what makes your photos so authentic and meaningful.
If what’s holding you back from booking an in-home photo shoot is worry about how your home looks, I’m here to put those fears to rest.
Worrying About Styling Your Home for Your In-Home Photo Shoot? Here’s What You Really Need to Know
Do you love color and have a super fun bedspread to prove it? That’s fantastic! Do you have a mountain of colorful throw pillows on your bed? Perfect! These personal touches don’t disqualify your home from being a beautiful setting for your in-home photo shoot—they mean we might need to make a few quick, easy adjustments to highlight the best lighting and your family’s unique vibe.
Here are some of my favorite, simple hacks that require zero extra shopping or expensive décor purchases:
The Best Kept Secrets for Styling Your In-Home Photo Shoot
1. White Bed Sheets Are Magic
If your bedroom receives excellent natural light, it’s likely one of the primary locations for your shoot. One of my top recommendations is to have a plain white bed sheet on hand to lay over your bed. This instantly creates a clean, bright backdrop perfect for snuggly, intimate shots.
If your bed is covered with colorful pillows or bedding, we’ll gently move some aside to create a balanced look—maybe keeping a few for pops of color if that suits your style.
2. Say No to Overhead Lighting
Overhead lights can cast harsh shadows and create unflattering color tones in photos. Before I arrive, I’ll ask you to turn off all overhead lighting, including ceiling fans with lights and sometimes even smaller lamps. Natural window light is the hero here—it’s soft, warm, and brings out the best in everyone. And I know just how to use it!
3. Open Those Windows Wide
Natural light is everything for an in-home photo shoot. We’ll push your curtains or blinds open, allowing sunlight to flood the room. This light helps us capture those glowing, vibrant images you’ll cherish forever.
Preparing Your Home for Your In-Home Photo Shoot
While I love a home decorated with personality, it’s helpful to tidy up the horizontal surfaces like coffee tables, kitchen counters, and dressers before your session. A quick trick? Collect items into a laundry basket or box to keep them out of the frame temporarily. Nobody’s gonna know 😉.
This creates a cleaner, less distracting backdrop and keeps the focus on what truly matters—your family’s connection and joy.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of prepping your space, please know this: I’ve photographed families in all kinds of homes—from minimalist apartments to colorful, bustling households—and I always find a way to make your space feel bright, fresh, and clutter-free on camera.
If you want more ideas on preparing for your in-home photo shoot, I have a more detailed guide here. It’s packed with practical tips to help you feel confident and ready for your session!
How to Choose Outfits for Your In-Home Photo Shoot
Clothing is another big question I get from clients. For an in-home photo shoot, I recommend simple, timeless outfits that complement your home’s color palette without overpowering the scene.
When choosing your outfits, I recommend you think cozy layers, soft textures, and neutral tones with maybe one or two pops of color that coordinate well together. Avoid busy patterns or large logos that can distract from the faces and emotions in your photos.
If you want, I can send you a detailed style guide along with your session prep materials to help you pick outfits that feel both comfortable and camera-ready.
Want to learn more about the importance of trusting your photographer during your family session? Check out this blog for tips on how letting go can lead to beautiful, authentic photos you’ll cherish forever.
Why Your Home Is the Perfect Backdrop for an In-Home Photo Shoot
If you’ve been holding back because you think your home isn’t photo-worthy, I’m here to encourage you to reconsider. Your home is the heart of your family’s story. It’s where love grows, where little feet run around, and where memories are made.
With a few simple tweaks and my guidance, your in-home photo shoot will shine with warmth, light, and authenticity. I can’t wait to capture your family’s story exactly as it is—beautiful, real, and uniquely yours.
Booking your in-home photo shoot with me means more than just great photos. I’ll provide you with a thorough prep guide tailored to your session, answering all your questions and giving you confidence as your photo day approaches. Ready to book your session? Reach out today, and let’s make magic happen in your home!
Natasha Sewell is a family and newborn photographer plus a photographer educator and mentor. She captures family’s joyful chaos in the place they are most comfortable – home. Natasha serves Washington, DC and surrounding areas and specializes in maternity, baby, and family photography.
