ULTIMATE GUIDE: IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME

There’s something incredibly special about capturing family moments in the space where life truly happens—your home. It’s where laughter echoes down the hallway, where kids grow up way too fast, and where memories are made every single day.

A home family shoot offers not only comfort but also authenticity. You don’t have to travel anywhere or put on a show—just be yourselves, and let the love and connection shine through.

Here’s your ULTIMATE GUIDE to prepping for a cozy, heartwarming, and beautifully styled family shoot right in the comfort of your own home.

1. Colour Schemes: Dress to Complement, Not Match

Let’s talk clothes! Outfits can truly elevate your images and bring the whole shoot together visually.

✨ Keep it neutral, warm, and cohesive

Think soft pastels, earth tones, and muted shades—like beige, taupe, blush pinks, sage green, soft grey, or cream. These tones blend beautifully into home environments and keep the focus on connection rather than clothes.

✨ Avoid logos and loud patterns

Anything too busy can distract from the emotion in your photos. Stick to solids or subtle prints.

✨ Coordinate, don’t match

Gone are the days of everyone wearing the exact same outfit. Instead, choose a color palette (3-4 colors max) and build outfits that harmonize within that theme.

Example: If your palette includes ivory, dusty rose, and olive—mom could wear a flowy ivory dress, dad in an olive shirt and khakis, and kids in dusty rose or a mix of the other tones.

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2. Natural Light Availability: Let the Light In

Lighting is everything when it comes to beautiful photography—especially indoors.

✨ Scout your home for the best-lit spots

Take a look around your home at different times of the day. Where does the sunlight pour in? Large windows, sheer curtains, or sliding doors are perfect.

✨ Plan your shoot during the best light

Late morning to early afternoon (roughly 9am–2pm) typically provides soft, flattering light indoors. Your photographer will likely recommend a timing based on the orientation of your home.

✨ Open up those curtains!

Natural light gives a soft, dreamy effect that’s flattering on everyone. Before your shoot, make sure to open all your blinds and curtains. Remove any dark or heavy drapes if possible.

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3. Plain Bedsheets: The Unsung Hero of Home Shoots

You’d be surprised how much of your shoot may happen on your bed—think tickle fights, snuggles, or a playful baby giggle fest.

✨ Choose plain, light-colored bedding

White, cream, light grey, or any soft pastel works best. It acts like a clean canvas and reflects light well.

✨ Avoid bold patterns

Busy prints can be distracting and take attention away from your family. Solid colors or very subtle textures are ideal.

✨ Freshly made = Fresh vibes

Make sure your bed is made neatly. If you have pets, consider lint-rolling the sheets to keep them photo-ready.

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4. Important Spaces: Make a Memory Map of Your Home

One of the biggest advantages of an at-home shoot is that your backdrop is full of meaning. Here’s how to pick the most memory-rich spots:

✨ The Master Bedroom

It’s usually bright and spacious—a perfect setting for snuggles, cuddles, or quiet moments on the bed.

✨ The Living Room

It’s the heart of the home, where you gather, play, or just hang out. Your couch, a cozy rug, or even the floor can make for beautiful candid shots.

✨ The Kids’ Room or Nursery

Tiny toes in the crib, storytime on the rocking chair, or siblings playing with their toys—these moments are treasures.

✨ The Kitchen or Dining Table

Don’t overlook this one! Baking cookies together, morning coffee, or everyone gathered around the table can be incredibly real and nostalgic.

✨ The Front Porch or Balcony

If you have outdoor access, it’s a great spot for natural light and a change in scenery while still keeping it “homey.”

Tip: Tidy up these spaces just a little—think clutter-free but still lived-in. You want them clean, but not sterile.

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Bonus Tips to Keep Things Stress-Free:

• Relax: The more relaxed you are, the more natural the photos will be. Don't stress if the kids get silly—that's real life!

• Snacks & Breaks: Keep snacks handy for little ones. A quick bite can turn around a grumpy mood.

• Music: Play soft background music to keep everyone relaxed and smiling.

• Be Present: Forget the camera and just enjoy being together. Your love will do the rest.

At-home family shoots are about connection, comfort, and capturing the magic of your everyday life. When you look back at these images years from now, you’ll remember exactly how your home felt, how your kids snuggled into you, and how your love lived in every corner.

Ready to make your everyday moments extraordinary? Your home is already the perfect studio 💛