When I first speak with potential clients, they often ask the difference between lifestyle and newborn photo sessions. If you are just beginning your search for a photographer, you will come across words like “lifestyle,” “documentary,” “posed,” and “studio.”
Deciding which session to book depends on a few questions you should ask yourself:
- Do I want the session to take place in my home? Do I want my pets included? Do I want to tell a story with my photos?
If yes, then a
is for you!These sessions use your home as the backdrop and tell the story of your family with a new baby. I mainly work in the living room, master bedroom, and nursery or wherever light is best. Don’t worry too much about messes, it is amazing what you can capture in a small pocket of a home with a bit of great lighting. When I arrive, I do a quick look around and clear any clutter that may be in the photos. I have also been known to move some furniture to get the best shot. I give small prompts and guide you through the session while allowing you to interact in natural ways and evoke real emotions. While the majority of the session includes one parent holding the baby, I do capture images of the baby on their own and make sure to get that adorable closeup for the announcement 🙂 
2. Do I want my baby posed in props like baskets, bowls, and buckets? Do I want oh-so-perfect poses with smooth blanket backdrops? Does my home have poor natural light?
If yes, then a
is for you!These take place when your baby is 6-12 days old to ensure those squishy womb-like poses. You and your family come to the lakeview studio where we are fully stocked with hats, wraps, and props galore. Sessions generally last 2-3 hours with plenty of time for feeding and soothing to keep your baby happy and sleepy. I spend the first portion of the session on family and sibling photos and then focus on your baby by themselves. During this time you can sit back and relax in the seating area and enjoy some complimentary snacks, coffee, laCroix, or fit in a quick nap.
There is no “best” newborn session option, just the best option for you and your family. Pricing and additional information can be found here. I hope that this post has helped answer some questions, and I look forward to all the new babies I will be photographing this year in the studio and in homes across Chicago!
xxHannah
