Curious what Lifestyle Newborn Photography is all about? It’s trending in newborn pictures and we couldn’t love it more. Find more about this type of photography here.

Lifestyle Newborn Photography

Over the last few years, a new style has emerged in the newborn photography world. Instead of fake, cheesy smiles against a black backdrop, photographers have been capturing genuine emotions in a home based setting. Lifestyle newborn photography is so much more relaxed and natural, capturing the raw emotion of the family with their newborn baby. These types of sessions give the client lots of variety, and they make wonderful coffee-table albums!

Pros of  Lifestyle Newborn Photography

• Natural and relaxed session in the clients home
• Can be taken with any age of baby
• Lets mom relax after giving birth without having to leave her house
• Easier to get other children or pets involved
• Makes wonderful albums

Cons of  Lifestyle Newborn Photography

• Harder to get “artistic” images that parents will want to hang on their walls
• No control over lighting. Have to use available light in the house which can be difficult with small windows
• Parents will have to tidy the house (which I found quite difficult after having my babies!)
• The photographer has to bring their equipment with them, which may make it difficult for clients with smaller houses

Although Lifestyle sessions are gaining popularity, there is something timeless and classic with studio newborn sessions. Styled studio sessions make it easier for the photographer to ensure even lighting throughout the session, as well as getting a sellable shot for wall art. Newborn studio photographers should also be well instructed in newborn posing and safety in studio settings to give the parents peace of mind while handling their little ones. Also, once parents are in the studio, they can see samples of your work, which can lead to higher sales if you have sample canvas wraps on your walls.

Pros of a Studio Session

• Controlled lighting and environment to ensure continuity
• Parents love having artistic styled prints for hanging on their walls
• Mom can come in, sit down & relax while the photographer takes her baby’s portraits
• Parents can see studio examples which may lead to higher sales

Cons of a Studio Session

• Best results are generally with a baby between 4-14 days old, so this option may not work well for older babies
• Mom has to get baby, diaper bag, and car seat all packed up and out of the house. (This may be especially difficult for C-section moms)

As you can see, there are benefits and disadvantages to both types of newborn sessions. Ultimately, it is the photographer’s job to consult with the parents and find out what their vision is for their session. I have clients who have specific requests that would be impossible to carry out in a lifestyle session, but were easily accomplished in the studio setting. As a newborn photographer, I really enjoy photographing both types of sessions, but I do like my clients coming to me so I don’t have to pack up my equipment! Maybe I’m just lazy! 

What should you wear for newborn photos?

If you are going for lifestyle newborn photography then consider what to wear as a family. Your outfits have a big impact on the look and feel of your photo session.

• Neutrals/light colors are always a winner for newborn sessions.
• Mamas, wear what you feel best in.
• As for dads, have him wear what is complimentary to your outfit.
• If you have older children, feel free to dress them in interesting patterns!
  To get more tips go to –> What to Wear for a Newborn Photoshoot

You may have many more questions like: When should newborn pictures be taken? maybe needing ideas on how to prepare for your newborn pictures or you may even be brave enough to attempt a little DIY on your own baby pictures at home! Either way we’ve got all of the answers to these questions (and more) over at our Ultimate Guide to Newborn Photography!

Maybe you are wanting a more posed newborn photography session more of a photo studio look…that’s definitely ok too! The most important idea is that you get newborn pictures of your sweet little one. If you need more tips in the Studio/Posed look be sure to check out these 10 tips.