There’s something truly magical about capturing your family’s moments together right where your story unfolds: at home (be that here in Zurich or somewhere else in Switzerland).

For newborn photos, a home photo session is simply the most comfortable and gentle way for parents. No packing up tiny socks, no hustling out the door. Just the familiar scent and softness of your own nest.

An at-home session is a wonderful way to capture babies, toddlers, and small children just as they truly are. Imagine documenting your child’s bedroom, filled with the colours, books, and playful chaos they’ll one day outgrow and likely forget. There’s such joy in watching your little one lost in play with a favourite train, building tower, or cuddling a well-loved teddy.

You can read more about why family photos at home are a great way to capture your story, HERE.

I often hear that parents are stressed that their home might not be big enough and tidy enough for family photos at home. But let me assure you, the smallest space is still your home and can be captured in a beautiful way.

Your Space, Their Memories: Decluttering for Picture-Perfect Family Photos

So when it’s time for your family photo session, you want that story to be about the beautiful faces you love most (and not the pile of washing in the corner or yesterday’s breakfast dishes still sitting on the counter).

Family photos at home is about crafting a space where your family’s authentic emotions can shine without distraction.

Let me share how thoughtful preparation can transform your family photo session into something truly magical.

Why Your Space Matters for Family Photos

The backdrop of your newborn photo session or family portraits becomes part of your story forever. These images will hang on your walls, fill your albums, and become treasured heirlooms your children will cherish long after they’ve grown.

Visual clutter competes with the most important elements of your photograph: the tender way your toddler reaches for daddy’s hand, the quiet contentment on your baby’s sleeping face, or the laughter shared between siblings. When unnecessary objects crowd the frame, they pull attention away from these precious moments. After all, their beautiful faces are the most important thing in your photographs.

A thoughtfully prepared space allows your photographer to capture what truly matters: the love, the tenderness, the cuddles, the play, and everything beautiful in between.

Room-by-Room Decluttering Guide

The Living Room: Your Family’s Heart

Start with surfaces. Clear coffee tables, side tables, and mantlepieces of everyday items like remote controls, magazines, and charging cables. Feel free to keep one or two meaningful object like a flower bouquet or a cherished family photo album.

Straighten cushions and fold throws neatly. These soft textures add warmth to your photos without creating visual noise.

Master Bedroom: Intimate Moments

For newborn photo sessions, your bedroom often becomes the most intimate setting. Make your bed with crisp, neutral linens that complement your family’s clothing choices. Clear nightstands completely, and tuck away personal items like glasses, books, or skincare products. Be mindful of charging cables lying around.

Even with older kids, the bedroom can become a stage for bed jumping or cuddling photos of the whole family.

Your Child’s Room: Fun Moments

Children’s bedrooms can work beautifully for all sorts of photos. Your child in their own environment, with their favourite toys: reading, playing, cuddling with their stuffies.

But select toys thoughtfully. Choose a few favourite items that reflect your child’s personality whilst removing the overwhelming collection that accumulates throughout the week. If there’s a particular toy that you don’t necessarily want in your photos, remove it from sight.

The Kitchen: Natural Family Interactions

Your kitchen could feature in your family photos just as prominently. You could bake pancakes or your favourite biscuits together, having lots of fun while splashing flour. Or you can have a snack together at your dining table. Photos of small kids eating are always very cute. (Photos of us adults not so much though 🙂

Clear countertops entirely, leaving only perhaps a bowl of fresh fruit or a simple vase of flowers. Put away small appliances, wash any visible dishes, and ensure your sink is empty and polished.

Quick Wins for Maximum Impact

Thirty minutes before your photographer arrives, walk through each room with fresh eyes. Remove obvious distractions first: piles of post, random shoes, and electronic devices. Straighten books on shelves so they create clean lines rather than chaotic angles.

Open curtains and blinds to welcome natural light, but ensure window sills are clear of accumulated items.

Turn off televisions and put phones in another room entirely. Their screens can create unwanted reflections and draw attention even when not in use.

Your Beautiful Story Awaits

These photographs aren’t just for today. They’re gifts your children will treasure for a lifetime, tangible reminders of love they can hold close for a lifetime.

I will work with you to find the most beautiful light and angles, but starting with an uncluttered canvas allows creativity to flourish. Whether capturing quiet newborn moments or energetic family play, a thoughtfully prepared space ensures nothing competes with the stars of the show — your beloved family.

And if you want to learn how to prepare your children for a relaxed and fun session, read this article HERE.