Studio vs. In-Home Newborn Photography in Metro Detroit: Which Is Right for Your Family?

By Two Wild Souls Photography – Metro Detroit’s Luxury Newborn Photographer
Custom Heirloom Products | Hair & Makeup | In-Home + In-Studio Portrait Sessions

You’re expecting your precious little one, and among the thousands of decisions swirling through your mind, one keeps popping up: Where should we have our newborn photos taken? Should you bundle up your days-old baby and head to a professional studio in Rochester, or would you rather have a photographer come to your home in Birmingham or Troy? It’s a question nearly every Metro Detroit parent asks, and honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Here’s the thing—those tiny fingers, that perfect button nose, the way your baby curls up on your chest—these moments are fleeting. In just weeks, your newborn will look completely different. Whether you choose a luxury studio experience in Rochester or an intimate in-home session in Oakland County, what matters most is capturing these precious days in a way that feels authentic to your family.

At Two Wild Souls Photography, we specialize in both studio and in-home newborn photography throughout Metro Detroit. We’ve photographed hundreds of newborns in both settings, and we’re here to help you make the choice that’s perfect for your family’s unique needs, style, and comfort level. Let’s explore both options together.

Understanding Your Newborn Photography Options in Metro Detroit

Before we dive deep into the details, let’s clarify what each type of session really offers. Understanding the fundamental differences will help you envision which experience resonates with your family.

What Makes Studio Newborn Photography Special

Studio newborn photography is all about creating those timeless, polished portraits you’ve probably seen gracing the walls of homes throughout Rochester Hills and Birmingham. Think of it as a controlled, perfected environment designed entirely around your baby’s comfort and creating heirloom-quality images.

In a professional studio setting, everything is optimized for newborn photography. The temperature is kept warm (around 72-75 degrees) so your baby stays comfortable while undressed or lightly wrapped. Professional lighting equipment creates that soft, dreamy glow without harsh shadows. And there’s an entire collection of props, backdrops, wraps, and accessories specifically chosen to complement your baby’s delicate features.

Our Rochester Michigan studio offers something truly special—a dedicated space where every detail has been thoughtfully curated for luxury newborn sessions. From plush seating for parents to a carefully selected prop collection, it’s designed to make your experience stress-free and beautiful. As a certified and insured newborn photographer, safety is our absolute priority, with specialized posing equipment and training ensuring your baby is always secure.

Studio sessions typically create that classic, timeless aesthetic—posed portraits with artistic compositions, multiple backdrop options, and the flexibility to create various looks all in one session. It’s perfect for families who envision traditional newborn portraits displayed as wall art or in heirloom albums.

The Appeal of In-Home Newborn Lifestyle Sessions

Now, in-home newborn photography offers something entirely different—and equally beautiful. Instead of posed portraits, lifestyle sessions capture your family authentically in your own space. It’s documentary-style storytelling that preserves not just what your baby looked like, but what these early days felt like.

Picture this: Dad holding your newborn in the nursery you carefully designed. Your toddler gently touching baby’s tiny hand. Your family dog curiously sniffing the newest family member. Mom nursing in the soft morning light streaming through your bedroom window. These are the moments that in-home sessions beautifully preserve.

Throughout Oakland County—from Birmingham to Troy, Bloomfield Hills to Royal Oak—we bring our professional lighting equipment and expertise right to your door. While the aesthetic is more relaxed and candid, make no mistake: these are still professionally crafted images with careful attention to lighting, composition, and storytelling.

In-home sessions shine when you want your family’s genuine connections and your home environment to be part of the story. If you’ve lovingly prepared a nursery, want siblings and pets included naturally, or simply feel more comfortable in your own space, lifestyle newborn photography might be calling your name.

Studio Newborn Sessions at Our Rochester Michigan Studio

Let’s paint a picture of what to expect when you choose a studio session at Two Wild Souls Photography in Rochester.

The Luxury Studio Experience

When you arrive at our Rochester studio, you’ll immediately feel the difference that a dedicated newborn photography space makes. This isn’t a multipurpose room or a makeshift setup—it’s a thoughtfully designed environment created specifically for families like yours.

Temperature control is crucial for newborn comfort, and our studio maintains that perfect warmth that keeps babies content during posed portraits. You’ll find comfortable seating where you can relax during setup transitions, a private area for nursing or changing, and refreshments to keep everyone comfortable during your 2.5 to 3-hour session.

The prop collection is extensive and carefully curated. We’re talking gorgeous handwoven wraps in dozens of colors, wooden bowls and nests perfect for those curled-up poses, whimsical headbands and bonnets, vintage baskets, soft layers, and backdrop options ranging from classic creams to rich, textured fabrics. Every prop is cleaned and sanitized between sessions, because your baby’s safety is non-negotiable.

What truly sets the studio experience apart is the creative freedom it offers. Want images with three different backdrops? Done. Hoping for both neutral tones and a pop of color? Absolutely. Interested in parent portraits, sibling shots, and solo baby portraits? We have time for it all. The studio environment means we’re never limited by natural light, space constraints, or environmental factors.

And here’s something that makes Two Wild Souls unique in Metro Detroit: whether you choose studio or in-home, you still receive complimentary professional hair and makeup, no time limits, and that same luxury all-inclusive experience we’re known for throughout Oakland County.

What to Expect During Your Studio Session

Studio sessions are relaxed and baby-led, typically lasting 2.5 to 3 hours. Why so long? Because we never rush. Newborns set the pace—they need feeding breaks, diaper changes, soothing time, and patience. This is built into our process.

You’ll want to arrive with a well-fed, comfortable baby, though we always plan for additional feeding during the session. Bring any special blankets or items you’d like incorporated, though we provide everything else—props, wraps, backdrops, even wardrobe options for parents if needed.

The session flows naturally through different setups. We typically start with family and parent portraits while baby is alert, then move into posed newborn portraits as baby settles into deeper sleep. Throughout it all, safety comes first. Every pose is carefully executed with proper support, and composite images (where we blend multiple safe shots) are used for those adorable poses you see online.

Parents often worry: “What if my baby won’t settle?” Here’s the truth—it’s completely normal. We’ve photographed hundreds of babies, and some take longer to settle than others. We’re patient, experienced, and have plenty of soothing techniques. There’s no clock ticking, no stress. We simply work with your baby’s rhythm.

Who Studio Sessions Are Perfect For

Studio newborn photography shines for certain families and situations. You might be the perfect candidate if you’re a first-time parent wanting those classic, polished newborn portraits. Maybe you’re prioritizing heirloom-quality wall art for your home, or you love the idea of multiple setup options in one session.

Studio sessions are also ideal if you have limited space at home, prefer a controlled professional environment, or want the confidence that comes with specialized newborn equipment and safety certifications. Families who value that timeless, magazine-worthy aesthetic often gravitate toward studio sessions.

And if you’re planning to give grandparents framed portraits or create a gallery wall of professionally matted images, the studio setting delivers that polished, cohesive look beautifully. Many of our Rochester area clients specifically choose studio sessions because they’re planning significant wall art or albums—investments that deserve that elevated, professional finish.

In-Home Newborn Photography Throughout Oakland County

Now let’s talk about bringing the studio experience to you—because in-home doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or professionalism.

Bringing the Studio to Your Home

Here’s what makes Two Wild Souls different from other Detroit newborn photographers: we don’t just show up with a camera. We bring our entire mobile studio setup—professional lighting equipment, backdrops, props, and everything needed to create stunning portraits right in your Birmingham, Troy, or Bloomfield Hills home.

We service families throughout Oakland County and beyond, including Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, Shelby Township, Macomb County, and surrounding Metro Detroit communities. Travel to your home is included, and we coordinate timing around your baby’s schedule and your family’s needs.

During your pre-session consultation, we’ll discuss which rooms in your home would work best. Typically, we use master bedrooms (beautiful for family bed portraits), nurseries (especially if you’ve designed a special space), and living rooms with good natural light. You don’t need a mansion or a perfectly styled home—we work with your space and make it beautiful.

The preparation is minimal. We ask that you declutter the areas we’ll be using and ensure the home is warm (about 72-75 degrees, since baby will be undressed). Everything else—the artistic vision, lighting, posing, and technical expertise—that’s on us. You simply need to be present and soak in these precious moments with your newborn.

Creating Authentic Lifestyle Moments

In-home newborn sessions have a completely different feel than studio sessions, and that’s intentional. While we can absolutely create some posed portraits in your home, the real magic happens in those candid, authentic moments.

Picture Mom gently placing baby in the bassinet you chose so carefully. Dad reading a children’s book to your older child while baby sleeps nearby. Your toddler’s genuine reaction as they interact with their new sibling. These aren’t posed scenarios we’re directing—they’re real moments we’re artfully capturing.

The lifestyle approach means your family’s story takes center stage. We document connections, not just faces. The way you look at your baby. The nursery details you spent months selecting. Your family dog’s curiosity about this new little human. These contextual elements make in-home images deeply personal and meaningful.

Natural light plays a starring role in lifestyle sessions. That gorgeous window light in your bedroom, the soft glow in the nursery—these create images with a timeless, film-like quality. And when needed, we supplement with professional lighting to ensure every image is beautifully lit, regardless of your home’s natural light situation.

Many of our Oakland County families especially appreciate lifestyle sessions because they preserve not just their baby, but their home and family dynamics during this specific chapter. When you look back at these images years from now, you’ll remember exactly what life felt like during those early newborn days.

Who In-Home Sessions Are Perfect For

In-home newborn sessions are particularly wonderful for certain families and circumstances. If you have older children who would be more comfortable in their own home, lifestyle sessions often work beautifully. Toddlers can play with their toys, siblings can interact naturally, and everyone feels more at ease.

Second or third-time parents often choose in-home sessions because they’ve already experienced studio portraits with their first child and want something different—something that captures this new family dynamic authentically. There’s less pressure, more relaxation, and a documentary approach that honors the reality of life with multiple children.

In-home sessions also appeal to families who prefer not to travel with a days-old newborn, parents who want their nursery design incorporated into images, or those who simply feel most comfortable in their own space. If you’re someone who loves documentary photography and authentic storytelling over posed portraits, lifestyle sessions will resonate with your aesthetic.

And here’s a beautiful truth: in-home sessions often capture Dad and siblings more naturally. In a studio setting, older kids can sometimes feel out of their element. At home, they’re relaxed, genuine, and those sibling connections shine through effortlessly.

Making the Right Choice for Your Detroit Area Family

Still unsure which option is right for you? Let’s break down the decision-making process with some practical considerations.

Consider Your Personal Style and Priorities

Start by thinking about your aesthetic preferences. When you envision your baby’s newborn portraits, what do you see? Are they polished, artistic portraits with beautiful props and backdrops—the kind you’d display as a large canvas above your sofa? Or do you picture intimate, candid moments that tell your family’s story—images that capture what these days truly felt like?

Neither answer is wrong. They’re simply different artistic visions, and one will likely resonate more strongly with you.

Consider your family dynamics too. If you’re welcoming your first baby, a studio session offers that classic newborn photography experience without the distraction of managing other children or household details. If you have toddlers or pets you want included, in-home sessions often work more seamlessly.

Think about what you plan to do with your images. If you’re envisioning a gallery wall of matching frames or a significant piece of wall art, the cohesive aesthetic of studio portraits might serve you better. If you’re imagining a storytelling album that documents your family’s journey, lifestyle images offer that narrative quality.

And consider your comfort level. Some parents feel more relaxed at home, while others prefer the separation of a professional space where they can focus entirely on the experience without household distractions. There’s no wrong answer—just what feels right for you.

Practical Considerations for Metro Detroit Families

Let’s talk logistics. Space is an important factor for in-home sessions. We can work with most spaces, but we do need room for lighting equipment and to move around for different angles. If you live in a small apartment or have very limited space, a studio session might be more comfortable for everyone.

Travel considerations matter too. Some parents love the idea of not traveling with their newborn, while others don’t mind a short drive to our Rochester studio. Consider what feels manageable for you during those early postpartum days.

Timing is similar for both session types—ideally scheduled within the first 5 to 14 days of life when babies are sleepiest and still naturally curl into those newborn poses. Whether studio or in-home, early booking is essential since newborn photographers typically book months in advance. Many of our clients book during their maternity session or even earlier in pregnancy.

Weather can be a consideration for Metro Detroit families. Michigan winters mean icy roads and cold temperatures. If you’re due in January or February, you might prefer an in-home session to avoid travel. Conversely, summer due dates mean easier travel if you’re considering our Rochester studio.

Budget may also play a role depending on your photographer’s pricing structure. At Two Wild Souls, we offer comparable investment levels for both studio and lifestyle sessions because we provide the same luxury experience, professional equipment, and time commitment regardless of location.

Why Not Both? Combining Studio and Lifestyle Sessions

Here’s something many Metro Detroit families don’t realize: you don’t have to choose just one approach. Some of our most satisfied clients book us because we can shoot studio and lifestyle portraits at your home.

One popular option is booking a studio maternity session during pregnancy, then an in-home newborn session after baby arrives. This gives you both aesthetic styles while minimizing newborn travel. You get those gorgeous, styled maternity portraits in our Rochester studio, then studio style newborn & authentic family moments at home with your new baby.

Another approach is a studio newborn session followed by an in-home family session a few weeks later when baby is more alert and interactive.

Booking multiple sessions will always save money down the road. We often will allow clients to combine credit to be used between both sessions and waive extra fees if booked separately. Our maternity and newborn packages are specifically designed for Metro Detroit families who want to document their entire journey from pregnancy through baby’s first year.

If you’re drawn to both styles, don’t feel like you have to choose. The investment in documenting your family thoroughly is one you’ll never regret.

What Sets Two Wild Souls Apart (Regardless of Location)

Whether you choose our Rochester studio or an in-home session in Oakland County, certain elements remain consistent—because luxury isn’t about location, it’s about experience.

Luxury Experience, Anywhere in Metro Detroit

Here’s what makes Two Wild Souls Photography unique in the Metro Detroit area: we’re the only studio offering a fully custom, luxury experience with complimentary professional hair and makeup regardless of whether you choose studio or in-home sessions. Yes, even in home sessions include hair and makeup because you deserve to look and feel your best after giving birth!

We never impose time limits. While sessions typically run 2.5 to 3 hours, if your baby needs more time, we’re patient. There’s no rushing, no stress, no watching the clock. We work at your baby’s pace, period. Unlike other photographers in the area, when you book us you have us for the entire day. We don’t double book and we allow you the time and courtesy you deserve!

All props, wraps, and equipment are provided, whether we’re in our Rochester studio or your Metro Detroit home. You don’t need to purchase or bring anything unless you have specific heirloom items you’d like incorporated. We will even purchase additional themed props just for you (if we don’t own them already).

Safety is paramount. As a certified Baby Safe photographer, every pose, every prop, and every setup prioritizes your baby’s wellbeing. Newborn photography requires specialized training, and we’ve invested in proper certifications and ongoing education to ensure your baby is always safe in our care.

The same white-glove service, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence applies whether you’re in our studio or we’re in your home. Location changes, but our standards never do.

Serving Rochester, Birmingham, Troy, and Beyond

Two Wild Souls Photography is based in Rochester Michigan, where our beautiful studio provides the perfect setting for studio newborn and maternity sessions. But our service extends throughout Oakland County and beyond.

We regularly photograph families in Birmingham, Troy, Royal Oak, Bloomfield Hills, Shelby Township, and Macomb County. For in-home sessions, we bring our full professional setup to you, ensuring the same quality and artistic vision regardless of location.

Our Rochester area expertise means we understand the Metro Detroit market, the local aesthetic preferences, and what families in this area value. We’re not a national chain or a photographer who dabbles in newborns—we specialize in luxury motherhood photography for Oakland County families. over 50% of our revenue on an annual basis is just maternity and newborn portraits sessions, this is our bread and butter.

Many clients appreciate working with a local photographer who understands the community. We can recommend local baby boutiques, parenting resources, and even other trusted service providers. We’re invested in Metro Detroit families because this is our community too. We always support local businesses when we can and we work with local non-profits, such as On The Wings of Angels, as a way to give back to our community because we care about you and your loved ones as much as our own.

Whether you’re in downtown Rochester or the suburbs of Troy, whether you prefer our studio or your home, we’re committed to providing an exceptional experience that results in heirloom-quality portraits you’ll treasure forever.

Frequently Asked Questions About Studio vs. In-Home Newborn Photos

Let’s address some of the most common questions Metro Detroit parents ask when deciding between studio and in-home newborn photography.

Questions About Studio Sessions

“What if my baby gets fussy at the studio?” This is completely normal and expected. Newborns don’t follow schedules, and some babies take longer to settle than others. We build extra time into every studio session specifically for feeding, soothing, and diaper changes. There’s no pressure, no rush. We’ve photographed hundreds of babies, and we’re experts at baby soothing techniques. Your session continues until we’ve captured beautiful images, regardless of how long it takes.

“Can we include family members in studio portraits?” Absolutely! Studio sessions are perfect for family portraits, parent portraits, sibling images, and even grandparent photos. The controlled environment and multiple setup options mean we can capture every family combination you’re hoping for. Many families specifically choose studio sessions because they want formal family portraits in addition to baby-only images.

“How long does a studio session take?” Typically 2.5 to 3 hours, but remember—there are no time limits at Two Wild Souls. We work at your baby’s pace. Some babies settle quickly, others need more time. We never rush through your session or leave with incomplete coverage. Your experience is relaxed and stress-free, however long it takes. Typically we start with baby as mom gets her hair & makeup done, then feed baby and then do family portraits after baby is fed. Sometimes we have clients that want 2 or more individual newborn rounds before family portraits, and other times baby needs 3 or more feedings during our time together. No family or baby is the same, but we make sure to accommodate everyone!

“What should we wear to the studio?” We provide guidance during your pre-session consultation, but generally, neutral colors and simple, solid clothing work beautifully. The focus should be on your baby, so avoiding busy patterns or loud colors is recommended. We even have some wardrobe options available if you need them. And of course, your complimentary hair and makeup ensures you’ll look polished and beautiful.

Questions About In-Home Sessions

“Do I need to clean my entire house?” Not at all! We only need the specific rooms we’ll be using, and we’re focused on the areas that will appear in images. A quick declutter of visible surfaces is helpful, but we’re not judging your housekeeping. We’re professional photographers who understand that you just had a baby—your home doesn’t need to be magazine-perfect. We make your space look beautiful through our lens.

“What rooms do you typically use?” Master bedrooms are favorites for family bed portraits and intimate nursing images. Nurseries are beautiful if you’ve designed a special space. Living rooms with good windows work well for natural light portraits. We usually use 2-3 rooms during a session, which we’ll discuss during your consultation. We work with whatever spaces are most comfortable for your family.

“How much space do you need?” Less than you might think. We need enough room for our lighting equipment and to move around for different angles, but we’re skilled at working in various spaces. Even smaller homes can work beautifully for lifestyle sessions. During your consultation, we can discuss your specific home layout and make a plan that works perfectly.

“What if my home doesn’t have great natural light?” This is why we bring professional lighting equipment to every in-home session. While natural light is beautiful when available, we’re never dependent on it. Our portable lighting setup allows us to create gorgeously lit images regardless of your home’s windows or natural light situation. You’re in expert hands.

General Planning Questions

“When should I book my newborn session?” As early as possible—ideally during your second trimester or alongside your maternity session. Dedicated newborn photographers typically book 2-3 months in advance, sometimes more. We keep your due date on the calendar, and you contact us after baby arrives to schedule the specific session date within that first two weeks.

“Can I see both studio and lifestyle samples?” Of course! During your consultation call, we can share full galleries of both session types so you can see our work in both styles. This helps you visualize which aesthetic resonates more with your family. We want you to make an informed decision that you’ll be thrilled with.

“Do you offer maternity + newborn packages?” Yes! Many Metro Detroit families choose to document their entire journey with combination packages. This often includes a maternity session (typically at our Rochester studio or at an outdoor location) and a newborn session (studio or in-home). Packages provide better overall value and ensure visual continuity throughout your experience.

“What’s included in each session type?” Whether studio or in-home, your Two Wild Souls experience includes: complimentary professional hair and makeup, no time limits, all props and equipment, baby-safe posing and handling, expert guidance throughout, and the same luxury service. The only difference is location and aesthetic style—everything else remains consistent.

Ready to Book Your Metro Detroit Newborn Session?

By now, you probably have a good sense of which option—or combination—feels right for your family. Maybe you’re drawn to the polished, timeless beauty of studio portraits in Rochester. Or perhaps the authentic, documentary style of in-home lifestyle photography speaks to your heart. Either way, you’re making a beautiful choice to preserve these fleeting newborn days.

Here’s what happens next: reach out to us for a complimentary consultation. We’ll discuss your vision, answer all your questions, and help you decide definitively between studio and in-home—or explore package options if you’re interested in both.

During your phone consultation, we’ll talk about timing (when you’re due, when to schedule your session), aesthetic preferences (the style of images you’re drawn to), family dynamics (older children, pets, who will be included), and any specific requests or concerns you have.

Two Wild Souls Photography limits the number of sessions we take each month because we believe in providing truly personalized, luxury experiences rather than volume photography. This means availability fills quickly, especially during busy seasons. If you’re expecting soon or know your due date, don’t wait to secure your spot.

The newborn phase is so incredibly brief—just days where your baby is this tiny, sleepy, curled-up little being. Whether you choose the elegance of our Rochester studio or the intimacy of your own home, the important thing is capturing these moments before they’re gone.

Let’s chat about your vision. Call or text us, or fill out our inquiry form to schedule your consultation. We can’t wait to meet your family and create heirloom portraits you’ll treasure for generations.

Your baby’s story deserves to be beautifully told. Let’s create something magical together.