{how to choose the best rooms for a lifestyle newborn session} :: Raleigh Newborn Photography : In home newborn session

Lifestyle Newborn

Dec 21

There are no set “rules” for an in-home newborn session. They are typically much more relaxed and focused on family interactions. However, there are some aspects of a home that I look for when I am going to photograph an in-home lifestyle newborn session. This is not to say that you cannot still have amazing photographs if your home doesn’t have these tips. But, shooting in spaces that match my normal style of shooting will help your photos look like my portfolio. So, these are the three things that I look for when I come to your home for a newborn session.

Natural Light

Probably the most important thing to look for! How many windows does your space have? What time of day does the most light enter the room without producing harsh shadows on the floor? If there is a room in your home that you want to use for your session (ex: nursery), but you don’t think it has enough light, that doesn’t mean we can’t shoot there. We will just have to be strategic with where the baby and family are placed. This likely will mean that we will stand close to windows in order to receive the most natural lighting. It also means that your photos will contain more grain than normal. Usually it is not noticeable unless you zoom in closely or plan to enlarge your photos to a large wall size. You may think that turning on overhead lights or lamps will help the situation, but it doesn’t. Every light produces a temperature of light and if they are not the same, they will really jack up your skin tone. ;)

Neutral walls

Yes, sometimes people view neutral walls as boring, but I cannot tell you how much this helps when photographing in your home! Neutral/light colored walls help the light fill the space and helps with skin tones & shadows. I get super excited when I walk into a home and the walls are neutral! Although I love deep colors in spaces to help make it feel cozy, it makes a room feel moody in photographs. If that is your thing and you love it - awesome! Just keep in mind that your photos will not look light & airy. The beauty of photography is that it is very subjective and everyone has their own taste & style.

Sitting Spaces

Most of the time we will shoot in your master bedroom because, typically, it is decorated and has a big enough bed for the entire family to sit comfortably. If you don’t love your master bedroom, we don’t have to shoot there. Are there other places in your home where everyone can interact, like a living room or guest room? The important thing is that we can photograph everyone together.