Imagine this…you just had a baby and you just moved into a new house. There are stacks of unpacked boxes, bare walls, and you’re still figuring out where to put everything. It doesn’t quite feel like home yet let alone “photo-ready.”
I’m here to tell you this is more common than you’d imagine, and it’s more than okay.
This beautiful family just moved into their lovely new-to-them home and I assured Mom everything would be fine! I’ve photographed many families that have found themselves in this exact situation! They either just moved into a new home or their house is in the middle of a renovation that is not quite finished yet.
I’ve received many emails from parents who think they need to wait until everything is perfectly decorated before scheduling their in-home session. I always tell them that it is totally fine that are still in transition. Because the truth is, your home is more than a backdrop, it’s the setting for your family’s story, no matter what stage it’s in. And moving into a new house is a new chapter in your family’s story!
Why an Unfinished Home Is Still the Perfect Place for Photos
Your kids aren’t going to remember if the new house was “just right”. What they will remember is how it felt to live in this new home and snuggle on the couch together (even if it’s not in its forever spot yet).
That’s the kind of thing I love capturing. The real, lived-in moments. The excitement of a fresh start. The way a home feels when it’s filled with love and a little bit of chaos.
Embracing the Beauty of a Fresh Start
There’s something really special about photographing families in a new home. Especially when they just welcomed a new baby! Everything feels a little different with new routines, new cozy corners to discover, and new places to curl up with your little one. And guess what? That’s worth documenting.
Even if the walls are bare, your family’s love and connection are what will fill the space. And the moments like rocking your newborn in a near-empty nursery, snuggling on the floor of the living room before the furniture arrives, and your toddler sharing a snack on the ottoman with the dog, are the ones you’ll want to remember.
You Don’t Need a Perfectly Styled Home for Beautiful Photos
I know social media has us thinking that homes have to look like a magazine spread for photos to be “good.” But I promise, that’s not what makes an image meaningful. While I can avoid photographing the stacks of boxes and living room full of bubble wrap and packing materials, some of my favorite photos come from sessions where the family is just living amongst the chaos!
With this family, we photographed the majority of the session in their beautiful loving room that had gorgeous light! We also took a few photos in the nursery (I was so impressed they had already set up!) But I need you to know that we can stick to photographing in just one room in the house! I want to do whatever you feel most comfortable with.
Tips for an In-Home Session in a New Space
If you’re still feeling unsure about booking a session before your home feels “done,” here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Use Natural Light – I’ll find the best-lit spots in your home, whether that’s a big window in the living room or a cozy nook in the nursery.
- Keep It Simple – No need to stress over decorating. A comfy couch, a big bed, or even a sunlit floor can make for beautiful, intimate photos.
- Lean Into the Moment – Let’s document the now. The morning snuggles, favorite spots to play, and the little routines you’re building in your new home.
- Don’t Worry About the Mess – Moving is chaotic. I expect it, and I promise it won’t take away from your photos. If anything, it adds to the story.
Your Home, Your Story
At the end of the day, it’s not about the house, it’s about your family. The moments that make this place feel like home, even before all the finishing touches are in place. So if you’re in a new space (with a new baby!) and wondering if it’s the right time for photos, my answer is absolutely yes. Let’s capture this season, just as it is because someday, you’ll look back and be so glad you did.
And if you have a new baby, you do not want to wait too long if you want me to capture them while they are tiny and new! But keep in mind it is also more than ok to postpone the session as long as you need to! I love to photograph babies of all ages!
Perfection is overrated. Your home, exactly as it is right now, is enough.
So if you’ve been waiting until your home feels “finished” to book a session, consider this your sign to go for it now. This chaotic and wonderful season with a new home, new baby, and all the in-between moments is one you’ll never get back. Let’s capture it, just as it is. Ready to document this chapter? Reach out, and let’s make it happen!
If you’re looking for a newborn or baby photographer in Pittsburgh, please get in touch to inquire about a session! I’d love to plan a photo session for your new baby!
Here are some other blog posts that you might want to check out!
Are you on Instagram? I’d love to connect with you there!
All images by Mary Beth Miller Photography
Mary Beth Miller Photography specializes in family and newborn photography in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and many of the surrounding areas. Mary Beth has over fourteen years of experience photographing families, newborns and babies in Pittsburgh including the South Side, Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, Oakland, the North Shore and Northside. Her style is very relaxed and natural and your family session will feel like a stress-free Sunday afternoon with your family!
