6 Important Tips for Your Best Lifestyle Newborn Session
One of the coolest things I’ve witnessed during my photography career is the evolution of baby portraits. I’ve seen them transform from beautiful, posed newborn sessions into artistic, authentic experiences that truly capture the love between a family and their newborn. Each newborn shoot is unique, reflecting the special dynamics of each family and the individuality of their home.
In this post, I want to help you decide if lifestyle newborn photography is the right choice for you, your family, and your baby. Lifestyle photography is more than just a trend; it’s an experience that produces artistically captured moments of the love you share. I always appreciate when families bring their unique culture, faith, and traditions into the session. When you feel comfortable and free to be yourselves, I believe that’s when the best photos happen!
Here are my six best tips to your best lifestyle newborn session. ❤️ -Laura Mares, Pittsburgh newborn lifestyle photographer
1. Family-Centered
As an experienced newborn and family photographer, my focus during newborn sessions is to capture the love and connection within your family. I aim to document not only your precious newborn but also the interactions and daily life that make your family unique. When your little one grows up, the most cherished images will be those where you’re all together, showcasing the love between you. Think of me as a friend in your home, capturing those special, seemingly small moments that you share.
2. Neutral Palette
While ensuring that you and your family feel comfortable is my top priority, I encourage clients to consider the style of their clothing. I recommend starting with a neutral palette. Bright colors and busy patterns can be distracting, so it’s best to keep the focus on your newborn. Neutrals don’t have to mean plain; consider a palette of grays, navies, tans, whites, ivories, soft blues, pastel pinks, soft greens, and muted yellows. Aim for 3 to 4 complementary colors. For example, men photograph well in a solid sweater over a patterned collared shirt, especially in cooler months.
3. Incorporate Personal Items
Since your lifestyle session is in your home, you have the chance to incorporate bits and pieces of yourself. Everyday objects such as wall art, books, toys, or even a favorite blanket can be utilized. Because we will not be in the confines of the studio, a lot more creative liberties can be taken.
4. Good Lighting (& Decluttered Spaces)
It is crucial that your house has adequate light and a decluttered background. The lighting can make or break the images, so don’t get your hopes set on shooting in a room without a window, after all photography is the art of capturing light. I love natural widow light. Make sure to look at your space between 10:00-12:00 in the morning and study the light. Let me know what you see!
5. play music
I know this might seem strange, but I have found it helpful in previous sessions to have a prearranged playlist with some of your / your newborn’s favorite songs. Some suggestion to add to your personalized playlist are Raffi, Classical Music, and just about anything from Putumayo. This will help relax the environment and allow you and your family to feel the most comfortable. Additionally, this will help settle your newborn! (When baby’s not happy, ain’t nobody happy!)
6. Breathe!
This is such a special time in your family’s life. I’m so excited to capture the many emotions during the shoot—love, excitement, wonder, and amazement. I know it will be tough, but make sure to relax! Many new moms tend to stress out because this is a new experience and understandably they want things to be “perfect.” Rest assured that I will create images that you and your family will cherish forever. This session is meant to be a beautiful, relaxed, and natural experience for you, your baby and your family. Nothing can ruin this vibe more than negativity. Don’t worry! I promise that we will end up with beautiful and tasteful images that your whole family will adore. Right now, promise yourself that you will not become overwhelmed, but let yourself breathe and be in the moment. Your session is an experience that you will cherish… don’t taint it with worry.
I hope that this blog post has helped, and that you leave this with 6 helpful tips under your belt. I can not wait to visit you and your beautiful newborn and capture this special time in your family’s timeline. I hope that you decide on a lifestyle session for your newborn, and are excited and prepared.
Read more tips on preparing for your newborn shoot, here.
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