I love my newborn sessions; there’s nothing better than baby cuddles and capturing beautiful images of them being brand new. But what I love most is capturing the whirlwind of bringing your baby home and beginning this new chapter together. One day you will share these photos with your baby; what would they want to see? What they looked like as a baby? Sure. But seeing what you looked like back then and the details of their first-ever home that housed all your love in those first days together would mean much more.
This is more than newborn photos; it’s lifelong memories.
I feel like I say it all the time, but there really is nothing more special than return clients. I was honoured when Magda reached out to let me know that they were expecting again. It was so lovely to catch up with them to meet beautiful baby Emilia, who was a dream. Plus, big brother Jacob who I had previously photographed when he was a baby. Lifestyle sessions are so special; let me share with you why I love them so much.
What is a lifestyle newborn session?
Lifestyle photography is very different from typical studio newborn photography. They are gentle and free-flowing with a focus on what really matters, and that’s your family welcoming it’s the newest member, how that looks and feels. I have a super relaxed approach to documenting the little moments and the big emotions because those first few days with a newborn are some of the most overwhelming, scariest, most beautiful days, but they are so fleeting. You look back before you know it, and it feels like it was all just a hazy dream, a distant memory.
When is the best time for a newborn session?
The thing with lifestyle newborn photography is there is no perfect time. It’s totally dependant on what works for you. If you want sleepy, new baby photos, I’d recommend shooting around 6-14 days old. However, if you want extra time to settle in or photos with more interaction, we can absolutely wait.
The thing with lifestyle newborn photography is there is no perfect time. It’s totally dependant on what works for you. If you want sleepy, new baby photos, I’d recommend shooting around 6-14 days old. However, if you want extra time to settle in or photos with more interaction, we can absolutely wait.
Do I need to prepare my home for the newborn session?
Please, please, please don’t stress over this! Your house doesn’t need to be “perfect”. Clear the clutter, but keep things looking lived in because I want your photos to be honest, not fake. The main rooms we are likely to use will be your bedroom and kids bedrooms/nursery, a living room, and anywhere there is an amazing light. I can bring a few blankets and wraps to use, but it’s always nice and special to have items you’ve bought and use.
Tip: I almost always photograph my families on the master bed, so it’s worth choosing bedding that compliments your outfit choices. If in doubt, go neutral.
How does the session work?
I’ll turn up with my camera. If you have older children, I’ll spend some time getting to know them. I’ll ask someone to give me a tour through your home (usually the kids!), so I can work out the best areas to shoot in. At every session, I follow the youngest child’s lead; for example, If a toddler is running around, they are the boss for the session. The first 20 minutes are mostly documentary in style to ease into the session, and you can get comfortable and not feel awkward. I will gently guide you, but I try to avoid posing as much as possible; I won’t make you stand still and smile at the camera; in fact, the less you look at me, the better! Sometimes it might just be to move to a particular area of light or placing a hand on someone’s cheek. Easy.
All you need to do is to focus on your family. Loving your loved ones is what I need from you: Cuddles, kisses and snuggles, smiles and laughter. Just you being you, and together we’ll tell your story honestly through photographs so that you can share these moments with your baby forever.
I was touched when Victoria reached out and asked me to photograph their newest arrival. I had already photographed her family of boys several times before, so I couldn’t wait to catch up with them all to document one of the first special days with their brand new baby GIRL!
Welcome, baby Darcey! From two to three, it’s certainly a journey. Three times the sleepless nights, the wild and the crazy, but also three times the love and cuddles. A favourite moment from my time with these guys was the big boys snuggling their baby sister. These really are the best, most special days.
