Tips for a Smooth In-Home Newborn Session with Three Kids

Bringing home a new baby is a big adjustment—and when it’s your third, the energy in the house is usually anything but quiet. But that’s exactly what makes an in-home newborn session with three kids so special. It’s real life, full of snuggles, surprises, and personalities that shine (or hide) in front of the camera.

When I walk into a home for a session with three kids, I expect a little bit of everything. There might be a toddler who wants to be in every frame, a big sibling who’s ready to help, or a kiddo who needs some time to warm up. And that’s the beauty of being at home—we can roll with it. Here are my best tips to help your session go as smoothly as possible.

1. Set the tone with no pressure
Kids follow your lead. If you’re relaxed and having fun, they’ll usually follow suit. Remind them that there are no rules—they don’t have to smile or pose a certain way. In an in-home newborn session with three kids, there’s room for everyone to show up exactly as they are. I’m an expert at reading kids cues and adjusting my approach in the moment, so leave that to me!

2. Embrace different personalities
Got a show-stealer? Let them shine. I’ll make sure they feel seen without taking over. Got a shy sibling? We’ll ease them in slowly—maybe holding the baby with a parent, or just sitting close by. Sometimes, showing them the back of the camera or even letting them snap a photo can break the ice. And for the in-between kids? We keep things playful and move at their pace.

3. Prep just enough—but not too much
A snack before the session, a favorite stuffed animal nearby, and clear expectations go a long way. Let the kids know I’ll be taking pictures of everyone, not just the baby, and that we’ll play a few silly games along the way. With three kids, plan on using other areas of your home like the kitchen and the kids rooms, not just the living room and bedroom, since older siblings usually want to show me their spaces.

4. Let the moments unfold
The best images from an in-home newborn session with three kids aren’t the perfectly posed ones—they’re the cuddles on the couch, the toddler tickling baby’s feet, or the big sibling reading a book while mom nurses. I’ll guide you gently, but the magic really comes from letting your real life shine.

As a San Francisco and Bay Area newborn photographer, I see many families who have one or two kids, but I absolutely thrive on the higher energy that comes with bigger families.

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Session Inspiration: Extended Family at the Golden Gate Bridge