Gently guided sessions at home, with older siblings, family pets, and plenty of time to settle in.
Wesley D Photography · Orange County
In-Home Newborn Photos With the Whole Family
big kids, dogs and the teddy bear included.
A new baby doesn't come home to an empty house. There's usually a big kid with questions and a dog who has noticed something is up. I'm Daniel Wesley, and when I photograph a newborn at home, they're all part of it.
Gently guided, at your pace.
I'll find the room with the good window, tell you where to get cozy, and fix a hand or a blanket when it needs fixing. Then I ease off and let everybody settle in.
We stop for feedings, diaper changes and snack breaks, and the whole thing moves at whatever pace your family needs. You end up with the unplanned stuff, the tiny baby details, and a few classic portraits, including the one for Grandma.
The full rundown is in what actually happens during in-home newborn photography in Orange County.
Older siblings get their own moments.
I say hi to the big kid first, then ask them to show me something. A kid with something to show off doesn't have time to be shy. A few things that work:
- Reading in bed
- Coloring or a book at the table
- Showing off a toy they love
- Helping with the baby, like picking out tiny socks or handing over the burp cloth
They can join in, wander off, and come back when they're ready. I also make sure they get a few photos that are just theirs. The baby is new, but they've been here the whole time.
Pets are part of the family, too.
The dog was here before the baby, so the dog belongs in the pictures. A dog can settle in nearby during story time or sit with everyone on the front steps, and a cat can wander through on its own terms. Nobody needs to sit and stay on command. A few frames while they're comfortable is plenty.
Set out a couple of favorite things.
Before I come over, set out two or three things your kids already love. Stuffed animals, wooden planes and classic books are timeless, and they give little hands something to do. Pick the clean ones, give anything grubby a quick wipe, and yes, the well-loved teddy is welcome.
Then we get everybody.
The baby gets a few quiet minutes of their own, and before I pack up we gather the whole crew for the classic one.
Tell me who lives at your house, kids and pets included, and we'll plan your newborn session around them.
