Setting Up Your Nursery With Beautiful Photos in Mind


There’s something so special about getting a nursery ready for your baby. Every tiny onesie folded, every blanket washed, every drawer organized....it’s all part of that sweet anticipation as you wait to meet your little one.


And while you’re in full nesting mode, it’s worth taking a moment to think about how your nursery setup might look in your in-home newborn photos. Don’t worry, I’m not suggesting you design the room for your photos. But with just a few thoughtful choices, you can create a space that feels cozy, peaceful, and naturally photogenic.


Let the Light Lead the Way


The most important thing in any photo, especially in-home sessions, is light. Natural light makes all the difference. If you’re still deciding where to place the crib or main furniture, try to position the crib near a window or directly across from it.


Here’s why: when the window is beside or across from your baby, it gives me beautiful, soft lighting that falls gently across the crib. It creates those dreamy, peaceful photos that feel light-filled and warm without harsh shadows.


If the window is behind the crib, it can create too much backlight and make your baby appear darker in the photos. Having the window to the side or front allows me to work with the light instead of against it.


And don’t worry if your room doesn’t get tons of light, I’ll work with what you have. Just try to keep the blinds open and curtains pulled back during your session to let in as much natural light as possible.


Keep It Clean and Simple


You’ve probably noticed how quickly a nursery fills up. Between baby gear, boxes of wipes, and piles of diapers, it can start to feel more like a supply closet than a peaceful retreat. But for photos, a little tidying goes a long way.


Before your session, I recommend putting away items that you don’t want in your photos — things like:


  • Diaper pails
  • Diaper carts
  • Breast pumps & parts
  • Boxes of diapers or wipes
  • Plastic toys or colorful baby gear
  • Random laundry piles (we’ve all been there!)


You don’t have to deep clean or hide every single thing, just tuck the practical items into the closet, under the crib, or behind the door. That way, the focus stays on your family and your sweet baby, not the Target haul you haven’t had time to unpack.


Think of it like setting a stage; the simpler the backdrop, the more the emotion and connection in your photos will shine through.


Add Soft, Natural Touches


If you love decorating, this is your time to shine! (but you don’t have to overdo it). A few cozy, natural elements photograph beautifully. A textured blanket draped over the crib, a neutral rug, a woven basket, or a few wooden toys can add warmth without clutter.


Stick with soft, neutral tones if you can: creams, tans, muted greens, dusty pinks, or warm browns. These colors help create timeless, calming images that won’t feel dated years down the road.



Remember, It’s About the Feeling


At the end of the day, your nursery doesn’t have to look like it came out of a magazine. The best photos come from real spaces filled with love, not perfection.


If you’ve spent weeks setting everything up just right, amazing. If your room is still half-finished and the rocking chair just arrived yesterday, that’s okay too. What matters most is the story being told: your first days together, your baby’s tiny details, and the peaceful rhythm of life at home.


So open those curtains, clear off the dresser, and snuggle up with your little one. I’ll take care of making sure your photos reflect the cozy, love-filled space you’ve created.