What To Expect At Your Lifestyle Newborn Session | Yellowbird Photography
Lifestyle Newborn Session - How Does It Work?
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What is Newborn Lifestyle Photography?
On Wikipedia it says Lifestyle photography is a genre of photography that mainly aims to capture portraits of people in situations, real-life events or milestones in an artistic manner and the art of the everyday.
For me, Lifestyle means your style of life. My work should represent a time in your life, that honestly, you might barely remember. The crazy sleep schedule and intermittent meals are enough to drive anyone nuts. But it is such a magical time, whether it feels like it at the time or not.
My style is different from typical studio newborn photography where there are lots of props and big lighting equipment. Those sessions tend to take long hours because it’s best for the baby to be super sleepy throughout the session so they can be easily placed into pretzel-like poses. Although that type of photography is seriously adorable, it’s just not my style. I believe babies are magnificent just the way they were born. Your baby can be awake or asleep, it doesn’t matter. I will put them in realistic poses such as in your arms, laying in their bassinet, or curled up on your bed. My ultimate goal is to capture the realness and beauty of your newborn. The flakey skin, the peach fuzz hair, and milk-stained lips. I’m here for all of it!
What to expect.
Newborn sessions take anywhere from 1-3 hours, however, we won’t be shooting the entire time. We will take lots of breaks for feedings and diaper changes.
The baby will likely determine the flow of the session. Nothing about my sessions is forced or rushed.
Once I arrive, I will start to look around for the best lighting in the house. I typically photograph newborns in the Master Bedroom, Living Room, and Nursery, but will likely gravitate to the room with the best light.
Will you help us pose?
Absolutely. I promise I won’t just shove a huge camera lens in your face and yell “say cheese!” My style is much more relaxed and go-with-the-flow. I will put you and baby in different poses that should feel easy and natural. I go with what looks and feels best. If your baby isn’t agreeing with a certain pose or location, I don’t mind switching gears and letting them lead the show. I do encourage families to be silly and playful during the session. The more you laugh and feel good, the better it will pay off in the end.
Where will the session take place?
Most Newborn Lifestyle Sessions take place in the comfort of your own home. It’s safe and easy for baby and for you. It’s also the most personal and sacred space, which makes for amazing photos. When I arrive at your home, I will take a good look around at all the rooms available and will likely choose the room with the best lighting. If you already know which room that is, great! If you don’t, that’s okay.. I can help. The master bedroom, living room, and the baby’s nursery are typical places I use.
For any reason, you cannot have the session in your home, I do offer outdoor and studio sessions upon request.
Studio sessions are a great alternative if you want indoors but cannot shoot in your own home. The Studio I use is located in Pflugerville and has stunning natural light. It also has a bed, couches, and chairs we can use to make it look more home-like. Studio rental fees will apply.
Outdoor sessions can be a little tricky since we have to deal with the outdoor elements, but they can be just as beautiful as an at-home session. I recommend not doing outdoors sessions with your newborn during the hot Summer and cold Winter months.
Can our family pet be in the session?
If your pet is well-behaved and non-aggressive, I highly suggest letting them join in on the fun! They are part of the family. If they are hard to handle, consider inviting a friend or family member to help wrangle them when they aren’t needed for photos. We want to keep the vibe mellow and chill for the baby.
Covid-19 & Hygiene
I take health and hygiene very seriously. I will wear a mask, take off my shoes, and wash my hands upon entering your home. This will cut down on the amount of germs I track in. I have been vaccinated and double-boosted, but I still take all precautions to remain safe. I allow 24 hours between newborn sessions so that I am able to sanitize my equipment and change into clean clothing. I ask that you monitor everyone’s health a few days leading up to the session and let me know if anyone, including baby, are feeling ill.