There’s something extra special about photographing a newborn in their very first home. The place where they’ll hit so many milestones, where their family will spend countless sleepy mornings and giggle-filled evenings. For baby Emmett, that home is tucked into the heart of Camp Hill, PA—and it was the perfect backdrop for his in home newborn session this July.
When I arrived at his parents’ house, the weather was exactly what you hope for in the middle of a Pennsylvania summer: sunny, warm, and peaceful. Their Camp Hill home was equally inviting—thoughtfully decorated, full of personality, and most of all, filled with love. Every corner told a little piece of their story. Family photos from their adventures out west lined the walls, and you could tell that every item in the space had been chosen with intention. It’s one of my favorite parts about in home newborn photography—there’s just something magical about freezing these early moments in the same spaces where life is actually happening.
And then there was Emmett.
This sweet little guy may have only been days old, but he came ready to party. He stayed awake for most of his session (which, if you’ve ever met a brand-new baby, is quite the feat). Wide-eyed and curious, he gave us a full range of newborn expressions—squishy little yawns, furrowed brows, and the most adorable side-eye I’ve ever seen. It’s always a toss-up with newborns: will they sleep the whole time or decide to show off those early facial expressions? Emmett made it clear he wasn’t about to miss a moment.
His nursery was such a reflection of his family’s style and journey—decorated in calming greens, cozy textures, and soft mountain-themed accents that hinted at his parents’ love for the outdoors. It felt peaceful, grounded, and full of hope. Every little detail, from the handmade signs to the well-loved books on his shelf, added to the warmth of the session.
Of course, no family photo is complete without the fur baby. Their dog—who was very excited to be included—joined us for a few photos, and I have to say, they may be some of my favorites. I always encourage families to include their pets when possible during in home newborn sessions. After all, they’re part of the family too! The way their pup nestled in beside Emmett, so gentle and protective—it melted me.
One of the sweetest surprises of the day was being able to capture Emmett with his grandparents. They had just stepped out to grab groceries as I was pulling up, and I was this close to missing them. But just before I wrapped up the session, they came through the door, and I was able to grab a few quick portraits with them and their brand-new grandson. These images weren’t planned—but they turned out to be some of the most meaningful. I can already imagine Emmett looking back at these photos one day, seeing the joy on his grandparents’ faces, and knowing just how loved he’s been since day one.
That’s the magic of in home newborn photography in Camp Hill and beyond. It’s not just about capturing a baby wrapped up in a swaddle—it’s about storytelling. About preserving the little, fleeting things that might otherwise be forgotten: the way mom cradles him instinctively, the proud look in dad’s eyes, the nursery that was decorated with so much anticipation. And sometimes, the serendipitous moment when grandparents return with bags of groceries and end up being part of a forever memory.
I truly believe that in home newborn sessions offer something uniquely timeless. There’s a relaxed pace, an organic rhythm that allows the day to unfold naturally. Emmett’s session was the perfect example of that. We moved around their home—soaked in the natural light from their windows, used their own meaningful spaces, and let Emmett lead the way.
I always encourage Camp Hill families considering newborn photography to think about having it done in their home. You don’t need a magazine-perfect space. You just need love, and I promise, your home will photograph beautifully just as it is. Because one day, your baby won’t be able to remember what the nursery looked like, or how you looked holding them on the couch—but the photos will remind them.
To Emmett’s parents—thank you for welcoming me into your home and trusting me with these early moments. Your little boy is already so lucky to be surrounded by so much love, and I know the walls of your home will soon be filled with even more photos—this time starring your sweet son.
To anyone looking for Camp Hill in home newborn photography, I’d love to help you document this chapter. Whether you’re just welcoming your first baby or adding to your growing crew, these quiet in between moments deserve to be preserved. My approach is relaxed, baby-led, and always focused on connection—no stiff poses or stressful timelines here. Just real, beautiful memories of this once-in-a-lifetime season.
If you’re expecting and curious about booking your own in home newborn session in Camp Hill, PA or the surrounding areas like Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, Hershey, or York, reach out here to learn more. Let’s create something timeless together, in the place your family calls home.
Want to see more in home newborn sessions by Kate McCord Photography? Check out this adorable twin sister in home newborn session!
