A Newborn Photoshoot In Your Home


I recently started offering "lifestyle" photoshoots- that is, a photoshoot with your family in the comfort of your own home. These are quite different from my traditional studio newborn photoshoots in which I use a large variety of my own props and accessories. The studio shoots are highly managed with my ability to control the lighting, temperature, and poses. Once you show up with your baby, I take it from there!


In contrast, for a lifestyle shoot, I show up at your home with just my camera and use what is available to me from your house for the shoot. Meaning, the light source is your windows, there are no props or accessories (other than your own furniture and baby blankets), and the rest of the family (mom/dad/siblings/pets) are involved with most the shoot. The structure is more go-with-the-flow and is a great option for unpredictable-aged toddler siblings.


All that to say, last week a studio client asked me how the lifestyle shoots have been going. So, after doing a few more recently, here's my honest answer!

  1. I love the variety of images we get, especially with sibling involvement. Most little kids are more comfortable and expressive in their own homes.
  2. I get a little anxious for these shoots! With the unpredictability of the lighting situation, and the home in general, I never know quite what I will be walking into. As a planner, this stresses me out a bit.
  3. As a whole, these take a lot more time! While the shoot time is actually, sometimes, less than in the studio, everything else takes longer! From the driving/traffic to get to my clients house, to the extra time editing (because of the inconsistency of natural window light,) to the number of photos taken, it all adds up to a longer process.
  4. Another thing I enjoy about lifestyle shoots is the ability to be creative with the editing process. There are so many different directions you can take these images.


So, what's my conclusion? I love both studio and in-home shoots right now. It really comes down to what you (as the client) want for your photoshoot experience and what you want your final gallery to look like. The in-home shoots tell more of a story so they work really well in an album. The studio shoots are perfect for framing for the nursery and birth announcements. Each image stands well on it's own.


Either way, I am always honored that my clients choose and trust me capture such an emotional and fleeting time in their lives! I do not take that lightly!


And yes, I have had clients choose both!

A collection of tender newborn lifestyle photography moments showing parents bonding with baby in soft natural light.
Modern family portrait collection in coordinated neutral outfits against white backdrop.

If you want to capture the beautiful and fleeting stage of newborn life, contact me today to book your session.