Newborn Lifestyle Photography: What to Expect?
August 2020
“FOR ALL THE THINGS MY HANDS HAVE HELD, THE BEST BY FAR IS YOU.”
What is a newborn lifestyle session?
If you are a parent, you know that the LAST thing you want to do after having a baby is get dressed up and go out of your home for a photo session. At- home, newborn lifestyle sessions are all about the connection of your family and the newest little addition! During a Newborn Lifestyle session, my goal is to capture the little moments of each family member as well as the family as a whole. You get to be in your own home AND get timeless pictures! When siblings are involved, I will always get the family pictures before anything else so they can run off and play as siblings tend to wear out fast! One thing that is important for me to get is individuals of the siblings! Being a big brother or sister is HARD when a new sibling arrives. They tend to crave that extra attention and love from mom and dad, so I will always try to include the them just as much as new baby! Do you have a fur baby?! PLEEEEEAASE let them be a part of the session.
TIP: If you can, have a friend or family member come help with the siblings after they are done with their part. This will free mom, dad and baby up to get pictures done of the three of them and of baby alone, in a stress free and calm environment.
Where will we take the photos?
The session will take place in the clients home! If you do not wish to do them in your home, you also have the option to do them in studio (they will still look like my typically lifestyle sessions and will not be super posed) or at a friend or families home. Within your home, I typically like to do them in the nursery, master bedroom and sometimes in the living room. When weather/time permits, I like to snag a few outside. DO NOT WORRY ABOUT A MESSY HOME! I can not stress this enough, you just had a baby. Remember, as your photographer, I have had two babies and understand to the full. To prepare, just open the blinds/curtains to let all the light in and make your bed. I will push things in corners as needed and your home will appear spotless! Side note: do not be surprised if I rearrange furniture to get the best shot, I promise to move everything back afterwards.
What should we wear?
Typically, I recommend comfortable, neutral colors. Keep it simple and try to avoid bold colors/patterns. Anything that is natural such as creams, whites, earthy tones, pastel and grey is always safe. Following these palettes will insure that attention will not be taken away from the little one in photos! Do you love color? If so, choose to add color to your accessories/jewelry. Stay clear of logos and writing on clothing as this is another distracting element! As far as baby, I would keep the same rules. Dress baby in simple/soft colors. Simple neural onesies and muslin swaddles are best! If you have a sweet coming home outfit I try to snag a few of that too!
Do you use props or do studio styled poses during lifestyle session?
The type of newborn photography that I specialize in is lifestyle. That being said, I choose to focus in creating and capturing the connection of your family in the comfort of your home. I specialize in getting shots where your relationships and interactions are present rather than posed studio shots. Individual pictures of your baby will be captured as well as the sweet close ups of the little fingers and toes, don’t worry!
How long does the session last?
Typically, a newborn session lasts anywhere from 1-1.5 hours. Baby tends to call the shots at these sessions so if baby needs to eat or get a diaper change, so be it!
What do we need to do to prepare?
Plan on keeping it a tad warmer in your home during this time! Babies LOVE warmth and will settle easier during outfit or diaper changes when it is warmer. Try to plan feeding the baby right before your session. This will help baby to stay sleepy and calm throughout the session. If you have any sentimental items ( a gown from when you were a baby, a handmade blanket from grandma or special jewelry) make sure those are all together for the session. If siblings are involved, I would suggest having a special treat handy for after the session. I am NEVER above a good bribe!
Remember, a newborn lifestyle session is meant to be a relaxed and comfortable way for your family to have capture this important milestone. I am here for any question about locations, outfits or anything else concerning your session and I am here for any special requests! Children are the biggest blessing and we need to preserve this special, exciting and somewhat exhausting time in your life!
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