A lifestyle newborn session is defined by cozy, unposed moments typically done in the family’s home. There are many reasons to choose a lifestyle newborn session and they are growing in popularity! As a newborn and family photographer in Morris County, NJ, I'd love to share some tips on how to prepare for a lifestyle newborn session in your home.
Scope out the setting.
Take some time to walk through your home at various times of the day and see which areas look best at which times. Are there any areas you really want to use? Make note of which times of day you like the room the best so that you can share that information with your photographer when deciding the best time for your lifestyle newborn session.
Decide what to wear.
It’s your session, so wear something that is comfortable but also makes you feel beautiful! You can go casual in a matching robe and swaddle set or wear something more elegant if that is your style. I also recommend sticking with a neutral, tone on tone color pallet, as this is always timeless. If you're stuck on what to wear, don't worry! I offer complimentary styling with every session, so if you need some help figuring out your wardrobe, don't hesitate to reach out.
Think about the details.
Set out any items or gifts you want to incorporate in your lifestyle newborn photos. Examples include hospital tags, special gifts, blankets, items of clothing, signs, or my personal favorite, antique items handed down or gifted to you.
Feed baby before starting.
Feed baby so that he or she is happy, sleepy, and ready for lots of snuggles. However, lifestyle newborn sessions are super chill and don't require baby to be sleeping for any part. If we need to take a break to feed baby (or Mama) or change, or just plain take a break, we will have plenty of time and your session will be super flexible. I usually try to take advantage of any breaks to photograph the nursery and any special items or details so that you and baby can have some alone time too.
Don't sweat the mess.
Seriously, don’t worry about cleaning your entire home. You don’t even have to clean most of your home! Most lifestyle newborn sessions take place in 1 or 2 rooms or areas of the house, usually the baby’s nursery and the parent’s bedroom or a common living area. I’ve done some lifestyle newborn sessions almost exclusively in little corners of magic light or in one spot by a big window where the best light is found. You can choose which areas of your home you want to use and any distracting items can simply be set to the side, just out of frame. Let your lifestyle newborn photographer take care of the details so that you’re free to focus on yourself and your baby.
Last, but not least...
New Jersey lifestyle newborn sessions don’t have to only take place inside! If the weather is agreeable, consider using an outside area of your home for some of the photos in addition to inside photos.
I also encourage the parents to consider doing some skin-to-skin and/or breastfeeding photos with baby. There is something so extra special and emotional about that close connection between you and your baby and having a photograph to remember this time by will mean so much to you in the future.
As always, be sure to discuss with your photographer any special requests, concerns, or questions you may have ahead of time. My main concern is that all those participating have a fun, stress free, and memorable experience resulting in images you'll cherish for a lifetime.
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