Why you should have an in-home family session

Many parents choose to have their newborn photos taken at home, but when it comes to family sessions, that same setting is often overlooked. Most of my clients opt for parks, beaches, or open fields—but only a handful have chosen to stay in their own space.

I’m here to tell you why that should change. There are three compelling reasons to consider your home as the perfect backdrop for your next family session: comfort, authentic storytelling, and ease. In this post, I’ll walk you through each one, featuring images from a beautiful in-home family session I photographed in Melrose, Massachusetts.

Comfort

No matter how many times you’ve stood in front of the lens, there’s almost always a bit of discomfort that comes with being photographed. Introducing an unfamiliar environment—like a busy park or a sterile studio—can heighten that unease. But when you choose your home as the setting, you’re grounding the session in a place that already feels safe and familiar. You don’t have to wonder where to sit or how to feel at ease—it’s your couch, your favorite corner, your well-loved space. There’s no worry about kids breaking a studio prop or wandering too far off in a public park. Instead, you get to just be yourselves in a space that reflects who you are.

Your children will feel the difference, too. If they’re slow to warm up, you can reach for a favorite book, blanket, or stuffed animal—little comforts that instantly help them feel secure. At home, there's room for spontaneous moments, giggles in the hallway, or snack breaks at the kitchen table. All of it becomes part of the story—genuine, relaxed, and uniquely yours.

Authentic Storytelling

Twenty years from now, when you and your children look back at photos taken in your home, they’ll carry an extra layer of meaning. Of course, you’ll still see the love and connection that defines your family—something that shines through no matter the setting. But beyond that, you’ll notice the little details that bring your past to life: the artwork taped to the fridge, the toy-strewn rug, the couch that eventually had to be replaced after years of movie nights and cuddles. These everyday pieces of your life—often overlooked in the moment—become cherished markers of a season now passed. An in-home session offers more than just beautiful portraits; it becomes a time capsule, allowing you to revisit not just how you looked, but how you lived, loved, and grew together.

Ease

And finally, let’s be honest—having your session at home is simply easier. There’s no frantic packing, no last-minute checklist of snacks, wipes, backup outfits, or favorite toys. Everything you could possibly need is already within reach. If your toddler needs a break, they can head to their own room to recharge. If your baby spits up mid-photo, you have a closet full of clean outfits just steps away. And if you need a second cup of coffee (because of course you do), your kitchen is right there. An at-home session removes the stress of logistics so you can focus on what really matters: being present with your family.

There You Have It

So the next time you’re planning a family photo session, don’t overlook the most meaningful backdrop of all—your home. It’s where your family laughs, grows, and shares everyday moments that make up your real story. Choosing to be photographed in that space invites comfort, authenticity, and ease into the experience, resulting in images that feel deeply personal. These photos won’t just show what you looked like—they’ll show where your life happened. And years from now, when you look back on them, you’ll be so glad you chose to preserve not just your faces, but your world.