As a photographer, there are some sessions that just stick with you—sessions that go beyond capturing beautiful moments to telling a story that is close to your heart. One such session for me was the recent newborn in-home family shoot I did for my sister-in-law, Hannah, her husband Sammie, their sweet two-year-old daughter Betty, and their brand new bundle of joy, Eden.

This session was extra special for many reasons, and I can’t wait to share the beautiful story behind it.

A Family’s Journey at Home

When Hannah and Sammie reached out to me about doing a newborn session, I was beyond excited. This wasn’t just another family shoot; it was for my own family, and I was about to capture a pivotal moment in their lives.

Their home in El Dorado, Kansas, is a warm and inviting space filled with love, laughter, and a little bit of chaos (in the best way possible). But it was in this very home that something even more incredible happened—Hannah gave birth to little Eden in the most beautiful, intimate way.

Eden’s birth was nothing short of magical. Unlike the typical hospital setting, Eden was born at home, surrounded by the love and comfort of her parents and her grandmother—my mother-in-law, who was there to help welcome Eden into the world. In fact, it was her grandmother who caught Eden as she came into the world, right into her arms. No midwife, no doula, just pure love and the strength of family. There was something so beautiful and empowering about that moment, and I knew from the very beginning that this session would be something deeply meaningful.

Capturing the Beauty of Family and Newborn Love

While this session was primarily focused on newborn Eden, the beauty of this shoot came from capturing not just the baby but the entire family in their element—together, at home. This wasn’t just about Eden’s arrival; it was about the love, joy, and bond that surrounds her.

Little Betty, already 2 years old, was so excited to welcome her new sister into the world. As a big sister, she was gentle and loving, always reaching out to check on Eden, kiss her little forehead, or cuddle up next to her for a photo. But let’s be real—she was also being a bit of a brat (haha), trying to get attention and pulling some classic toddler stunts. But, honestly? That’s what made this session so real and special. Betty was full of energy—sometimes sweet, sometimes a little mischievous—but it’s exactly who she is right now, and that’s what made the session so genuine.

Eden, only a few days old, was calm and peaceful throughout the shoot. There’s something so serene about newborns, and Eden’s sweet little face and delicate features were a photographer’s dream. She curled up in her parents’ arms, slept peacefully in her crib, and gave us a few little open-eyed moments that absolutely melted my heart.

We spent the session capturing candid, heartfelt moments in their home. Whether it was Sammie gazing at his newborn daughter or Hannah rocking Eden to sleep in her arms, these are the memories I know they’ll cherish forever. It wasn’t just about the poses—it was about real, honest love. The simple, yet powerful moments that define what it means to be a family.

A Session Full of Meaning

The beauty of an in-home family session, especially one that focuses on a newborn, is that it’s deeply personal. There’s something about being in your own space that brings out a different level of comfort and intimacy. No fancy studio lights or staged backgrounds—just the genuine warmth of home and family.

This particular session felt especially meaningful because it wasn’t just about photographing a newborn, it was about documenting a chapter in my family’s life—one that was deeply personal and uniquely beautiful. From Eden’s home birth, caught by her grandmother, to the loving family surrounding her, this session told a story of strength, love, and new beginnings.

Why Newborn In-Home Sessions are So Special

Newborn sessions are some of the most emotional and intimate shoots I get to be a part of. There’s just something so special about capturing those first days of life. But in-home sessions take it to a whole new level. These sessions allow families to feel at ease in their own environment, surrounded by their personal touches and memories. The home itself becomes part of the story—the cozy couch, the nursery filled with love, and the details that are uniquely theirs.

As a photographer, I absolutely love the opportunity to not only document these fleeting moments but to tell a family’s story through my lens. And when that family is your own, it adds an extra layer of meaning that I will forever cherish.

Closing Thoughts: A Family’s Love Captured Forever

The newborn in-home family session with Hannah, Sammie, Betty, and Eden in El Dorado, Kansas, was nothing short of magical. It was a beautiful reminder of the power of family, love, and new beginnings. I am so grateful to have been able to capture such a special moment in their lives, and I’ll forever treasure the memories we made together.

If you’re looking to capture your own family’s story, whether it’s a newborn session, a family milestone, or just a day spent together at home, I’d love to help you create lasting memories.

Let’s make your family’s story unforgettable. Book your in-home session with me today at www.abbyreephotography.com, and let’s capture those beautiful, real moments that matter most.