I am using a Nikon D5500, probably just use the kit lens for this project AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II lens

Hello! My best friend just recently asked me to do the photos for her pregnancy announcement and to be in the room for photos while she is in labor. I've really only done still life photography and I always work in a manual camera setting. What setting do portrait photographers usually work in? I'm sure manual would take too long to adjust for something like this, especially the labor pictures, which will be indoors lighting. Any tips would be appreciated, I sure don't want to mess this up!