What to Expect at Your In-Home Newborn Photography Session

Baby, Newborn

A warm, baby-led approach to capturing this sweet new chapter in your St. Petersburg home

Welcoming a new baby is a whirlwind—full of quiet snuggles, sleepless nights, and figuring it all out one feeding at a time. The last thing you need in these early days is pressure to have a perfectly tidy home, adhere a rigid photo schedule, or overload your diaper bag for yet another appointment. That’s where in-home lifestyle newborn photography comes in—and why I’ve designed my sessions in St. Petersburg to feel like a calm, natural extension of your real life.

Here’s what you can expect when I come to photograph your newborn at home:


Your Home Is the Perfect Backdrop—Just As It Is

One of the best parts of an in-home newborn session is that your home tells your story. Whether it’s the beautifully decorated nursery, the favorite cozy chair where you rock your baby to sleep, or the sun-drenched corner of your bedroom, we’ll use the spaces that feel most like you.

And no—you don’t have to deep clean before I arrive. I fully expect that you’ve been in survival mode, learning to care for a tiny human on very little sleep. (You’re doing amazing, by the way.) I’ll gently guide you on clearing just a few surfaces if needed, but my goal is to capture life as it is—emotional, awe-inspiring, and full of love.


A Baby-Led, Lifestyle Approach to Newborn Photography

There’s no “right” timeline when it comes to newborn photos. My sessions are entirely baby-led, which means we’ll go with the flow. Whether your baby wants to sleep, eat, stretch, be changed, or snuggle the entire time, we work around their needs—not the other way around.

Most of my newborn sessions are wrapped up within 90 minutes, but I only photograph one family per day—which means we’re never watching the clock. If your baby is cluster feeding, needs extra snuggles to settle, or just wants to be held a little longer, that’s perfectly okay. We’re going to take the time we need, and you get to simply relax and let your baby be the baby they are.

That’s the beauty of at-home newborn photography: everything your baby could need is already within reach. There’s no packing up a diaper bag or rushing out the door. You get to stay cozy and comfortable, right where you are.


Including Siblings and Pets in your Newborn Session

Want to include big brother or sister in the photos? Absolutely. Have a four-legged friend who’s already taken on the role of loyal protector? Let’s get them in the frame, too.

Lifestyle newborn photography is all about capturing your whole family—whoever that includes—in a way that feels relaxed and genuine. We’ll take breaks when needed, play with the big kids to keep things light, and go at a pace that makes everyone feel at ease.


Natural Light and Minimal Fuss At Home

When I arrive, I’ll take a quick peek around your home to find the best lighting. Even if you don’t have huge windows or tons of sunshine, trust me—I’ve worked in every kind of space and can always find the glow.

I don’t bring bulky lights or big setups. I’ll have my camera, a couple of simple swaddles and onesies, and an eye for the little moments that make your family unique. If you have sentimental items—a blanket from grandma, a special onesie, or a beloved stuffy—we’ll absolutely incorporate them, too.


A Newborn Session That Feels Like a Friend Stopping By

My clients often tell me that our newborn sessions feel like having a good friend come over—someone who knows how to make you feel comfortable and sees the beauty in the everyday. That’s exactly the experience I hope to create.

You don’t need to be “ready.” You don’t need to have it all together. You just need to be you, loving your new little one, and I’ll take care of the rest.

Erin Vestal holding her camera

Interested in Booking an In-Home Newborn Session in St. Petersburg?

If you’re expecting or recently welcomed your baby, I’d love to document this chapter with you. My sessions are relaxed, baby-led, and rooted in connection. I travel to homes throughout St. Petersburg and the surrounding Tampa Bay area, and I bring everything needed for a calm and beautiful session.

Reach out about a Newborn Session

Erin Vestal

Hey there! I’m Erin Vestal—a life photographer who’s all about telling the real, meaningful stories behind your favorite moments. Whether it’s sandy feet at the beach, newborn snuggles at home, or saying “I do” surrounded by your people, I’m here to help you press pause and remember it all. I photograph families, newborns, and weddings in St. Pete (and sometimes in Andover or Baxter, too!). However your story is unfolding, I’d be honored to help you tell it.