The initial weeks and even months following the arrival of a baby bring about a whirlwind of chaos at home. Mom is exhausted, dad is fatigued, and if there are siblings, they often grapple with adjusting to the newborn's demands. Despite the shared excitement, adapting to this significant change becomes more challenging amid sleep deprivation.
However, eager parents are reluctant to miss the opportunity to capture precious moments with the baby. Preparing everyone for a studio newborn session proves no small feat. This is where a home Newborn Lifestyle session becomes invaluable. Taking place in the familiarity of your own home - whether it's in your bedroom, the new nursery, or on your cozy couch - it offers a distinctly relaxed experience.
Furthermore, a studio session fails to authentically narrate your family's story. Opting for a session in the comfort of your home allows for a more genuine and intimate portrayal of your unique family narrative. Your images will be unique to your family.
As a Bay Area Newborn and Family photographer, I offer Lifestyle in-home maternity and newborn sessions. This blog will try to cover all the questions and tips on the subject of in-home newborn portrait sessions.
What is a Lifestyle Portrait Session?
Lifestyle photography falls between portrait photography and documentary, focusing on capturing meaningful moments. It revolves around photographing emotions and connections, emphasizing a genuine portrayal. However, the photographer doesn't merely rely on the family to intuitively know what to do; instead, they offer gentle direction to ensure the best possible outcome.
Even when I pose my clients, the captured images exude an authentic and candid quality. I actively promote movement, considering it a vital element in lifestyle photography. Encouraging subjects to stay in motion serves a dual purpose—it not only enhances the visual aesthetics but also provides them with engaging activities, fostering a more comfortable atmosphere.
You can read my blog about lifestyle photography here What is Lifestyle Photography
Is Lifestyle Photography Right for Your Family?
In lifestyle photography, clients are urged to gaze at each other and express affection naturally. Simple gestures like touching a partner's arm, sharing a kiss, or maintaining a relaxed posture all translate into movements that appear spontaneous and authentic in the camera lens. The end result is a collection of intimate and candid family moments, a departure from the conventional approach of everyone posing for the camera.
So here are some questions to ask yourself:
Are you in search of photographs that narrate the unique story of your family?
Is cuddling with your loved ones a natural and cherished activity, and would you like to showcase such heartwarming images in your family room?
Do you desire authentic images that capture the genuine moments of laughter and interaction within your family?
If the answer to all of these is ‘Yes!’, then lifestyle portraits are for you.
When Should You Schedule a Lifestyle Newborn Photography?
Optimal timing for capturing newborn photos is during the initial two weeks of life. During this period, the baby tends to be exceptionally sleepy, creating an ideal setting for the photoshoot. Avoiding moments when the baby is awake and fussy is crucial for a smooth session. Ensuring the baby is well-fed and in a sleepy state contributes to a seamless and enjoyable experience for both the mother and the photographer.
However, since the Lifestyle Newborn session focuses on the bond and connection between each family member and the baby, we don’t have to worry about posing the baby in a basket. Therefore, if your little angel is a bit older, it is not a problem. It is all about capturing your baby in your loving arms, right?
What is the Best Time of Day for In Home Newborn Photoshoot?
Since I will photograph your baby at your home with natural light, the best time to start is in the morning, between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. This will ensure the most beautiful natural light which will result in amazing images.
How Long Does a Newborn Session Last?
Typically, a session spans 1.5-2 hours, as it involves necessary breaks for diaper changes, feedings, and outfit changes. Attempting to rush through the session within an hour is not conducive to achieving the best results. Patience is key, as the baby dictates the pace, allowing for a more relaxed and successful photoshoot.
Should You Include an Older Sibling in the Newborn Session?
Absolutely! The relationships between siblings are truly unique, and integrating the bond between an older sibling and a newborn into a photography session can yield priceless images. We will capture the genuine moments of the older sibling kissing the newborn's forehead, holding their tiny hands, or sharing a quiet moment. These heartwarming images will be treasured for years to come, reflecting the genuine bond between siblings.
How to Prepare Your Home for a Newborn Photography
It's only natural for many to feel apprehensive about scheduling a photography session within their homes. Worries about messiness, perceived lack of Pinterest-worthy aesthetics, or concerns about limited space may creep in. However, don't let these thoughts deter you from capturing your family in its natural environment. Here are some tips on preparing your home for an in-home newborn photography session.
1) The session will take place in the room with the best light in the house. You only need one great window with natural light.
2) The key advice is to declutter the room designated for the session. While artwork on the walls adds charm, stacks of laundry, scattered toys, shopping bags, old dishes, or piles of mail can divert attention from the primary focus of the pictures – your family.
3) Open up the window blinds to make sure plenty of natural light is entering the room.
4) Turn off the overhead lights, we want to make sure we utilize the beautiful natural light from the window. The overhead lights are not flattering.
5) Make sure you have 2-3 clean outfits for the baby for different images and in case she spits out or has an accident.
6) The photography session for newborns should be strategically planned around their individual schedules and accommodate their feeding and sleeping times. Make sure the baby is fed right before my arrival (we can include nursing images if the baby needs to be fed again and you are comfortable enough with the idea).
7) Turn up the heat! Babies are happier when they are warm.
How to Prepare the Baby for a Lifestyle Newborn Session
1) Your newborn is perfect just the way he or she is. We let the baby guide the session.
2) I don't try to make babies sleep or place them in unnatural poses.
3) Have your newborn in a simple onesie that is form fitting with no graphics or words. This usually means that you will need a preemie or newborn sized onesie. I will likely take it off and get some nude or near nude newborn photos as well.
4) Gather a few favorite swaddle blankets for your baby to be wrapped in.
5) I recommend feeding the baby as much as he or she wants about 15 minutes prior to my arrival.
What to Wear for In Home Newborn Photography
1) I recommend that moms select their outfit first and then coordinate other outfits around that choice. Opt for something comfortable and flowy to avoid constriction on your fresh postpartum body. Loose-fitting clothes are also great if mom has any worries regarding her post-pregnancy figure. Additionally, having a light sweater or cardigan to layer over your outfit can complement the overall look in pictures.
2) For dads, lighter-colored pants such as khaki or gray, paired with a neutral color palette for their top (button-ups and v-neck shirts are best).
3) If there are older siblings, think about coordinating the wardrobes. While they don't have to be dressed in identical outfits, opting for complementary colors or themes can elevate the overall aesthetic of the images.
4) Light neutral colors are most recommended for a softer look, which is the ultimate goal for a newborn session. Neutral colors help avoid color casts on the baby skin. This is a must for my session as I use natural light.
5) Make sure you are comfortable and can move freely in your garments. You will need to sit on the bed/couch in your home, and lay down for some images.
6) Refrain from graphic tees, as they can often be distracting and take away from the overall image.
7) Avoid prints and patterns. We aim for images that are elegant versus busy.
Can Props be Included in the In Home Newborn Shoot
Given the lifestyle and emphasis on candid and documentary aspects of this session, the choice of 'props' is entirely at your discretion! Feel free to bring along any items you wish to include in the photos, whether it's your own swaddles, hats, baskets, headbands, outfits, and more for your baby. I welcome 2-3 outfit and blanket changes, and I particularly enjoy capturing a variety of images showcasing your baby in different outfits and blankets! (Make sure the blankets and clothes are in neutral colors without busy patterns).
Should I Include Grandparents in a Newborn Session?
Absolutely. They are part of your baby's journey and your family story. Just remember to tell the photographer about it and add more time to your scheduled session. Images of the different generations are very moving.
Should I Include My Pet in a Newborn Session
Absolutely! Just make sure that your pet is calm and relaxed. So if you want to include your dog, for instance, take it to a nice long walk before the session. Dogs also tend to be super excited when a new guest arrives. So I would recommend adding the dog towards the end, when it is much calmer and gets all his sniffs out of the way.
How to Book a Newborn Session with Me
Ready to schedule your In-Home Lifestyle Newborn session with me and capture these beautiful moments? All you have to do is be yourself and cuddle with your loved ones. That cannot be too hard. In fact, it is actually lots of fun and I cannot wait to meet you!
Click the link below to connect.
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