Can We Do a Newborn Session If We Live in an Apartment or Smaller Space?
The short answer? Absolutely yes.
You do not need a huge, light-filled home to have a beautiful, heartfelt newborn photography session. Whether you live in a small apartment, are doing construction on your house, or only have one room with decent light, we can still create images that you’ll love forever.
As a lifestyle newborn photographer based in Northern New Jersey, I’ve worked with families in all types of living situations—charming old homes, modern condos, cozy railroad-style apartments, and even houses mid-renovation. Some of the most emotional and intimate sessions I’ve ever photographed happened in the smallest of spaces.
All We Need is Window Light (and Maybe a Bed or Couch)
One of the most important elements for in-home newborn photography is natural light. We don’t need giant windows or high ceilings—just one window is often all it takes.
In a small space, I’ll seek out the best light, which is usually near a window or glass door. We might use a bed, a couch, or even a soft rug on the floor. I bring a step stool and often shoot from above to create visual interest and variety. And I’ll crop in close to focus on what really matters—you and your baby.
Real Story: Newborn Photos in a Railroad-Style Apartment
Last winter, one of my best friends had her third baby. I told her I was definitely coming to take photos—even though she was hesitant. She lives in a narrow railroad-style apartment in Hoboken, with windows only at either end. She was worried that the space wouldn’t photograph well, and that we wouldn’t get many usable shots.
Spoiler alert: She ended up loving her entire gallery.
We worked entirely with the natural light available, kept things simple, and focused on connection and closeness. I cropped in tight, used creative angles, and leaned into the cozy atmosphere. Her gallery was full of soft snuggles, sleepy baby details, some serious giggles, silliness, and emotional moments between her and her kids. Every image felt intimate, real, and full of love.
What Matters Most in a Newborn Session? (Hint: It's Not Your Space)
It’s completely normal to worry that your home isn’t “photo ready,” especially in the postpartum haze. But I promise you—the goal of a lifestyle newborn session is not to showcase your square footage or your home decor. The goal is to tell your story as a new family.
Whether you’re in a studio apartment, a fixer-upper, or your dream home, we’ll work with the space you have and make it beautiful. I’ll guide you throughout the session so that you don’t have to think about posing or lighting. All you need to do is love on your baby.
Tips for a Newborn Session in a Smaller Home
If you’re feeling nervous about booking a session in your apartment or small space, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Natural light is key – If you know what time of day your home gets the best light, we can schedule the session accordingly.
Clutter doesn’t matter – I can move things out of the way if needed, and most of the images will be framed tightly around you and your baby.
Cozy is beautiful – Close quarters can lead to more intimate and connected photos. Small spaces often bring people (literally) closer together.
Trust the process – I’ve done this many times. If you’re feeling unsure, we’ll talk before the session and I’ll help you feel completely prepared.
So yes—you can have a beautiful newborn photography session even if you live in a small apartment or don’t have a “Pinterest-worthy” space. What matters most is capturing this fleeting moment in time. Your baby will only be this tiny once.
If you’re in Maplewood, Westfield, Summit, or anywhere in Northern New Jersey and wondering whether your home is “good enough” for photos, I’m here to tell you: It is. Let’s create something meaningful together—no matter what your square footage looks like.
