How to prepare and what to expect from a lifestyle newborn session at home with Margot | Abu Dhabi Newborn Photographer

Margot S Photography
Mar 17
4 min read

Welcoming a new baby is one of the most emotional and transformative times in your life. My lifestyle newborn sessions at home in Abu Dhabi are designed to capture this season in a natural, relaxed and safe way — focusing on connection, love and authenticity.

Here is everything you need to know to feel fully prepared.

When Is the Best Time for a Newborn Session?

You will often hear that the best time for newborn photos is within the first 2–3 weeks. At that stage, babies usually sleep a lot and are less likely to experience colic, which can make sessions smoother.

However, as a mum myself, I understand that those first weeks can feel overwhelming. You may need more time to recover, adjust and feel comfortable in your new role. That is completely okay.

I am happy to photograph your baby at one month old or even later. In fact, slightly older babies often reward us with beautiful eye contact, first smiles and even more visible connection.

There is no “perfect” time — the best time is when you feel ready.

Why an At-Home Lifestyle Session?

I truly believe that welcoming your baby at home is the most meaningful way to document this chapter.

Having your session in the comfort of your own house means:

No packing baby essentials
No stress about being somewhere on time
No exposing your newborn to unnecessary environments
Familiar sounds and smells for your baby

Your little one will spend most of the session in your loving arms, where they feel safest. I avoid complicated poses or props that could put your baby at risk. Safety is always my top priority.

There is no need to separate you from your baby for long periods — this session is about your connection.

What to Expect on the Day

When I arrive, I will quickly walk around your home to find the best light. I usually photograph in the master bedroom and nursery, but we may also use the living room or another bright space.

Please don’t worry if your home is not perfectly clean. I know life with a newborn can feel overwhelming. We can easily tidy a small area together where we plan to shoot.

My sessions are baby-led. That means:

We follow your baby’s rhythm
We pause for feeding or soothing when needed
There is no rushing

I usually recommend scheduling the session in the morning, when there is the most natural light and babies are often well-rested. Light is very important for achieving the bright, airy look you see in my portfolio. Before we meet, I may ask you to send a few photos of your bedroom and living room. This helps me understand your space and light conditions in advance.

What to Wear

Wardrobe plays an important role in creating timeless images.

I recommend:

Neutral, pastel or soft tones
1–3 colours that complement each other
Simple, classic pieces
Comfortable outfits

Please avoid:

Strong patterns
Large logos
Busy prints

Less is more. Subtle textures and soft fabrics photograph beautifully. Try to keep everyone in a similar level of formality (all casual or all slightly dressy).

I will also ask you to be barefoot during the session, so don’t forget to remove socks before we start.

If you would like guidance, I am always happy to help you plan your outfits.

If You Have Older Children

If your baby has siblings, we will gently include them in a natural way.

Before the session, think of simple games they enjoy that don’t require toys:

Jumping on the bed
“Flying” baby in the air
Reading favourite books
Singing songs

These activities help create genuine smiles and real emotions.

On the day of the session, I suggest not making a big announcement that a photographer is coming. Instead, you can say that “auntie is visiting with a camera to capture some fun moments together.” Keeping it relaxed helps children stay natural.

My Approach

You do not need to know how to pose. You do not need to be a model.

Becoming a parent can be exhausting — especially in the first months. I know exactly how that feels. This is a beautiful, emotional and unique time in your life, even if it sometimes feels messy. My job is to show you how beautiful this season truly is.

There will be very few moments when I ask you to look at the camera. Instead, I will gently guide you to connect with each other — hold your baby, kiss their forehead, laugh with your children, breathe them in.

Those are the images your children will cherish one day.

A lifestyle newborn session at home is not about perfection. It is about authenticity. It is about love, connection and the quiet magic of your everyday life.

If you have a baby on the way or have recently welcomed your little one in Abu Dhabi, I would be honoured to document this chapter for you.

If my approach feels right for you, you can explore more of my work or find all the details below: