Choosing Between a Lifestyle and Studio Newborn Session :: Raleigh Newborn Photographer

There are two main styles of newborn photography — lifestyle and studio. Lifestyle newborn sessions are usually in home, they are more relaxed in nature, and focus on family interactions. Studio newborn photography takes place in a studio, often with flash lighting, and is more posed. Deciding between the two just depends on what you hope to get out of the session. Here are a few questions to help you narrow down your focus in choosing between a lifestyle or studio newborn session.

1. Do you want your home or pets to be featured?

If the answer is yes, well, boom. That was quick. You should book a lifestyle newborn session. Most families who opt for this type of session enjoy the decor of their home, they have ample natural lighting, and they want their furry friends to make an appearance (I mean, they’re part of the family too!). Lifestyle sessions usually take place hanging out on a bed or sofa, and in the child’s nursery. Of course, we can photograph anywhere in your home you’d like!

If you don’t particularly care for the decor of your home, or do not feel as though it will photograph well, a studio session may be the best route. Studio sessions still include family images, but they are more posed, and in my light and bright white studio space. It really is a blank canvas, which brings more attention to your baby & family interaction. But, sorry Fido.. pets are not allowed.

2. do you have older siblings?

Siblings are always photographed with baby but the experiences are different depending on which type of session you choose. With a lifestyle session, siblings are in their own environment, often popping in and out of the session when they feel like it, and sometimes to just show me their new cool toy. I will always try and get individual sibling shots depending on the age of the older baby, but sometimes we have to get creative and hide a toy under baby brother in the crib and ask them to try and find it. You do what you gotta do..

Sibling shots in the studio also depend on the age of the older sibling. If they can safely hold a wrapped baby, we will try that, or we can capture some sweet images where they are not directly supporting baby. I always try and get the sibling shots out of the way early on in the session so they can relax or leave with a loved one if need be.

3. How do you want baby to be photographed?

I am often asked if I will get individual shots of baby during a lifestyle newborn session and the answer is YES, OF COURSE! They are the star of the show! Most of the time these shots are taken solo on a bed, or in their crib. They are not placed in props, unless you have a bassinet or Moses basket that you would like them in. I do not bring items for babies to be placed in to lifestyle newborn sessions.

If you are drawn to the perfectly posed images of babies on crisp, white blankets, or in props such as beds or baskets, a studio session is the way to go. We can discuss which colors you’d like to have incorporated (if any), or if there are any special requests. I cannot guarantee any prop shot due to safety reasons. If baby is not settled or sleeping, certain poses cannot be obtained.. but I always do my very best!

If you are still on the fence, I’d love to chat and help you make the right call! Just shoot me a message through my contact form or email me at info@amycarterphotography.com!