Preparing for a lifestyle newborn photoshoot is a little different than preparing for a studio newborn session. I’ve already shared a bit about my style of newborn photography, so today I want to share how to prepare for your lifestyle newborn session. Here are a few key differences to think about beforehand.
The perfect location
One of the biggest perks of a lifestyle newborn session is that I come to your home. This takes the stress out of packing everything up for your whole family. Especially, your new baby that you’re still figuring out their ever-changing needs. I love that a lifestyle session allows you to just relax and be comfortable together in your home.
Another thing I love about lifestyle newborn photoshoots is capturing all the details. You’ve created the perfect nursery for this tiny human, let’s document how much love and care you put into their special place. From the perfect baby blanket knitted by grandma to the teddy bear that was yours as a baby, you may want to show them these details when they are all grown.
Beyond the nursery, other areas of your home that we could be in, include the master bedroom or the living room. This will be determined by the light. Check out this post to see how you can find the best light in your home.
Prepping the family
An in-home lifestyle photo shoot typically lasts about 2 hours. Let your husband know what to expect but that his main job is keeping older siblings entertained. Typically, family portraits and dad with baby will last about 30-40 minutes. To prepare your little ones, share that someone will be coming over to take photos of them with their new baby brother/sister. You can tell them they’ll need to be a big helper and really let them take on the big sibling role. You can also offer a special treat for the end of portraits.
Before your session, I will send you a couple of great tips for the baby. For example, make sure your newborn has a full belly and has been awake prior to the session. These tips will help make sure your session goes as smoothly as possible.
Styling the family
I’ll share my session style guide and lots of tips with you to make sure you feel your best at the session. I always recommend starting with mom’s outfit first and then building out the family from there. Check out my favorite places to shop for dresses. If you plan a newborn outfit, that’s great. But it’s also okay and looks natural to keep baby wrapped in the white swaddle that I provide.
Cleaning the house
Last but not least, I don’t want you to stress about making the house look perfect. I completely understand how overwhelming those first few weeks of bringing a baby home can be. Prior to our session, we can discuss the best areas of your home so you don’t have to worry about any other rooms. If I see an area I think will create beautiful photos, I am happy to move a few items around to create the illusion of a spotless home. (And I promise anything I move will be put back in its original spot!)
Prepare for a Lifestyle Newborn Photoshoot
I’m sure if you follow these tips, we’ll have a great newborn session together. If you’re ready to book your session, let’s connect! You can also view more of my work on Instagram and Facebook.
