What is newborn lifestyle photography?
Unlike newborn photography that takes place in a studio, with the baby wrapped and posed in various props, Newborn lifestyle photography takes place in the comfort of your home and aims to capture candid moments between the family members and the new baby. This type of photography is documentary style and is meant to tell your story.
What to expect?
I come to you, so no need to worry about getting everyone ready and rushing out the door! These sessions typically take between 1.5 to 2 hours. I will capture photos of the baby with both parents, with each parent individually, with siblings, with the entire family and by themselves. We can even include the family dog! Don't worry about being awkward in front of the camera, I will guide you every step of the way! The turn around time to receive your photos is 2 weeks. Once ready, they are uploaded to a digital gallery and a link is provided for you to download the photos. A print release is also provided.
What do I need to do to prepare my home?
I recommend considering where you would like to have the photos taken. Some popular choices are the living room couch, the master bed and the baby's nursery. You can choose just one area, or a variety of rooms. Rooms that have large windows or that provide nice natural light are good options. Once you have decided, remove any clutter or items from the vicinity that you would not wish to have in the photos (think bottles, pumps, cups on nightstands). Typically speaking, the more sparse, the better. This is, however, meant to be a real representation of your home and life, so no need to go too crazy cleaning or moving things. (I'm looking at you, new mama!) And please, do not feel like you need to clean house or make things Pinterest perfect. I am a mom of 4 kids, myself, so I know all about how messy life can be with kids!
What to wear?
I suggest wearing something comfortable that you feel confident in. For mom, flowy dresses or layered outfits are typically most flattering postpartum. Neutral colors are always a good choice, but don't be afraid to go bold if that's what you like! Its best to keep things simple, as to keep the focus on the baby. Avoid logos, characters, and distracting patterns. As for the baby, I suggest a neutral onesie, sleeper, or knotted gown, along with anything special you would like them to wear.
What about baby?
Turn up the heat, or turn down the air! The baby will have outfit changes, as well as probably some photos in their diaper, so keeping the environment warm will help them from getting chilled. I bring a variety of different colored wraps, headbands, and hats to select from. I also bring a bowl and basket for some posed photos of the baby. Make sure baby is well fed prior to my arrival, but please expect that most babies want to eat at least once during their session, which is totally fine by me!
What about siblings?
I suggest toddler siblings are well rested and well fed before my arrival. When scheduling, try to consider nap times and when your toddler is the most easygoing and likely to cooperate. Some parents like to offer a treat for good behavior during the session. I do find most kids are very willing to participate and at ease in their own homes and often very excited to show off their new baby sibling!
How do I schedule?
Since the timing of newborns can be quite unpredictable, I ask that you contact me within a few days of the baby being born so we can get you on the schedule. Ideally, I like to take the photographs in the first two weeks of baby's life, while they are still in that sweet sleepy phase. However, I understand that newborn life is incredibly hectic, so if you have missed the two week window, not to worry! Newborn lifestyle photography is very adaptable and it's almost never too late!
