From bump to baby: why at-home family photoshoots in Toulouse are worth It. Eugénie Smirnova — your photographer in Toulouse and southwest France

Home photo session in Toulouse

with family photographer — Eugénie Smirnova

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When I think about what makes photography truly powerful, it’s not just the beautiful light, the perfect location, or the right outfit. It’s the story. And few stories are as heart-warming as the journey from pregnancy to those first months with your baby.Last winter, I had the honour of photographing a wonderful couple in Toulouse as they prepared to welcome their first child. 

We spent time capturing the tenderness of pregnancy: the anticipation, the connection, and the quiet joy of waiting. A few months later, they invited me back into their home to meet their sweet 4-month-old son, Louis.

This session reminded me why I love lifestyle family photography — and why an at-home photoshoot can be one of the best decisions for new parents.

Why Choose an At-Home Family Photoshoot?

Toulouse is a city full of charm: its pink brick streets, the Garonne river at sunset, and the beautiful parks. But sometimes, the most meaningful backdrop is much simpler — your own home.Here are a few reasons families love at-home sessions:

Comfort for your baby A four-month-old, like little Louis, feels safest in familiar surroundings. At home, parents don’t have to worry about the cold, bright lights, or timing around naps. Everything your baby needs is already there.
Authenticity The photos reflect your real life: the nursery you decorated, the cozy couch where you spend hours cuddling, the little details of everyday life that will change so quickly.
Relaxed atmosphere Parents often tell me they feel more at ease at home. Without the stress of traveling to a location, everyone is calmer — and that shows in the photos.
Timeless storytelling These images are not just portraits, they’re part of your family story. Years later, you’ll look back not only on how tiny your baby was but also on the place where your family’s story began.

From bump to baby: why at-home family photoshoots in Toulouse are worth It. Eugénie Smirnova — your photographer in Toulouse and southwest France

What to Expect During a Home Session in Toulouse

Many families wonder how an at-home session works. Here’s what you can expect when booking with me:
  • Natural light first: I always look for the best light in your home — near windows, in the living room, or in the nursery. Toulouse homes often have beautiful, soft light that creates warm, timeless images.
  • Candid moments over posing: I guide you lightly, but I focus on capturing genuine moments — cuddles, laughs, yawns, and even the chaos that makes life beautiful.
  • Baby-led approach: If your baby needs a feed, a nap, or simply a break, we pause. No rush. The goal is to create a relaxed space where your family feels completely at ease.
  • Details matter: Tiny hands, little smiles, the way parents look at their child — these are the moments that define the story.


From bump to baby: why at-home family photoshoots in Toulouse are worth It. Eugénie Smirnova — your photographer in Toulouse and southwest France

What to Wear for an At-Home Family Photoshoot

Clothing can make a big difference in photos. Here are my top tips for families in Toulouse:
  • Neutral, soft tones work best (beige, white, soft grey, muted pastels). They keep the focus on connection and emotions rather than outfits.
  • Avoid large logos and busy patterns — they can distract from the tenderness of the images.
  • Coordinate, don’t match: choose a color palette (e.g., cream + earthy tones) and let each family member wear something within it.
  • Comfort first: especially for mom and baby. Flowing dresses or cozy knits look beautiful and feel natural.

From bump to baby: why at-home family photoshoots in Toulouse are worth It. Eugénie Smirnova — your photographer in Toulouse and southwest France

Preparing Your Home

Don’t worry — you don’t need a spotless, magazine-ready house. But a little preparation helps:
  • Tidy one or two rooms where you’d like photos taken (living room, bedroom, nursery).
  • Personal touches — fresh flowers, a cozy blanket, or a favorite book — can add warmth.
  • Turn off artificial lights if possible. Natural light is softer and more flattering.
Remember: the focus is on your family, not your furniture.

From bump to baby: why at-home family photoshoots in Toulouse are worth It. Eugénie Smirnova — your photographer in Toulouse and southwest France

Why Combine Pregnancy and Newborn/Family Sessions?

One of the most beautiful parts of Louis’s story is that I photographed his parents before he was even born. Looking back at their maternity session and then seeing them with their baby in the same home feels magical.

That’s why I recommend booking both a pregnancy and an at-home newborn/family session. Together, they create a full story: the anticipation, the waiting, and the reality of those first months.

Special Offer: If you book both a pregnancy photoshoot and an at-home family session in Toulouse, you’ll receive a discount. It’s my way of encouraging families to document the complete journey.

From bump to baby: why at-home family photoshoots in Toulouse are worth It. Eugénie Smirnova — your photographer in Toulouse and southwest France

Recommendations for Your Family Photoshoot in Toulouse

Book early: especially for newborns, as the first months fly by.
Decide between home and outdoor: both have unique advantages, and sometimes we combine them.
Think about storytelling: Do you want just portraits, or a mix of details and candid lifestyle images?
Relax and trust the process: the best photos come when you’re simply enjoying time with your loved ones. 

From bump to baby: why at-home family photoshoots in Toulouse are worth It. Eugénie Smirnova — your photographer in Toulouse and southwest France

What to wear for your session

When preparing for your at-home family photoshoot with your baby, think soft, cozy, and timeless. Neutral colors like beige, cream, grey, or pastels photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your connection rather than your outfits. Avoid busy patterns or large logos, as they can distract from the tenderness of the images. Coordinating tones across the family looks harmonious, but there’s no need to match exactly — think of a shared palette instead. Comfortable fabrics like cotton, knits, or linen work especially well, both for parents and for baby. Above all, wear something that makes you feel 

📍 Ready to book? Here’s what to do next

Let’s talk! 🔗 Click here to view packages & pricing

Or send me a message at ezhphotos@gmail.com

Follow me on Instagram for inspiration and recent sessions

Availability for the autumn is limited, so don’t wait too long. Book your family photo session  today and let’s create something beautiful together!

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From bump to baby: why at-home family photoshoots in Toulouse are worth It. Eugénie Smirnova — your photographer in Toulouse and southwest France

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