There are a few questions I often get asked by new mamas planning their Huntsville or Madison Alabama lifestyle newborn session. These sessions are growing in popularity and I'm here for it! here are some common topics of interest when planning an in-home session. If you're entering this season of life, this blog post is for you!
What to expect during your lifestyle newborn session
Lifestyle newborn sessions are intended to be relaxed and cozy. One main difference is that there are minimal props involved and your baby doesn't need to be in a deep sleep. The key to posed newborn photography is a deep slumber that allow you to manipulate baby into various poses and positions.
With lifestyle sessions, as long as your baby is content (and sometimes even when they aren't:) we can get amazing shots. Natural light is a key component to these shoots. And while your house doesn't have to be flooded with light, a room or two with a good window is perfect. Some of my most beautiful images have come form the shadowy element found in dark rooms with just a little light peeking in.
A room with a large window and lots of natural light.
This was a dark day in a dark room with just one small window.
What rooms do you shoot in and what time of day do you shoot?
Typically there are three main rooms we shoot in for lifestyle newborn photos. I love to use the nursery as it's such a beautiful space for documenting those early days with baby. All of the little elements will be a flood of emotion when you look back on those photos is 1, 5, 10 years. Beyond that the master bedroom is great and the bed acts as a great anchor for family shots. Depending on space and light, the living room can also be a great choice. Ultimately, we go where the light leads. Typically I aim for 10/11 am for these sessions as morning light tends to be the most consistent. Also, baby tends to be less fussy when the day begins (aren't we all?). If you have a home with afternoon light, we can definitely adjust to accommodate that.
If weather permits, one unique thing I love to do is grab a photo of your family on your front porch. There's just something so unique and sentimental about that time stamp of new baby in his/her first real home.
What props do you bring?
The short of it-none.
The beauty of these sessions is that baby and their connection to your family won't be covered up by a lot of excess props. I like to focus on keeping things as natural as possible and keeping your family's story unmuddled. i will bring a few texture pieces and wraps for baby. I also occasionally bring a Moses basket for me for some images of baby by themself. If you have special blankets and heirloom pieces for baby that you'd like included we can look at those together! Neutrals and knits are the best bet for creating timeless images you love.
Other than that, you're the star of the show!
What should I wear for my lifestyle newborn session?
Keep things pretty neutral. Neutrals and earth tones work great in any setting. You may still be deciding if you want in home or in my studio. Planning neutrals will make sure you look great in any setting. Also, it keeps the attention on that sweet baby and the connection you have. Avoid busy patterns and loud colors as they can distract from the soft intimacy a newborn session should have. I have a variety of comfy and flowy dresses that are tried and true to photograph well for mamas, so no stress needed.
Whites, tans, creams, denim all work great! If a dress is uncomfortable, opt for some leggings and a neutral, flowy top.
For husbands keeping it simple with a henley or a long sleeve button up, sleeves rolled 3/4 is perfect and casual.
Avoid: black, jersey knit dresses, stiff materials that don't allow nursing access if you choose to nurse, neons and bright colors.
**One exception to the neutrals... If your home is all white/light gray walls with little color it can be nice to add a pop of color in your wardrobe for some contrast.
Cleaning and Prep
One big misconception with in-home/lifestyle shoots is that you have to clean your entire home. Or that your home has to be Pinterest perfect.
False.
While we do want there to be a clean, clutter free area, it doesn't mean the whole house has to be that way.
Go through the 1-2 rooms that you want to use and declutter those spaces. Clear off dressers and end tables as those tend to hold the most miscellaneous things (coffee cups, magazines, breast pumps, etc).
Get rid of the diaper genie for the session!
Throw all the random extras in a laundry basket that can be removed until after the session.
Consider switching to neutral bedding for this session.
Lastly, buys some fresh flowers for the space. They go a long way in adding a cozy and warm feeling to your home! Even better, give this task to hubby. We want him to feel a part of this session as well!
Tiffany Crenshaw is a lifestyle and documentary photographer in Northern Alabama. She specializes in newborn and family storytelling sessions.
Reach out to secure your Winter 2023 newborn session or your Spring 2023 family session.
Questions about your lifestyle session? Let's chat!
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