Lifestyle Newborn Photography in Maryville, TN
What even is it?
If you've been scrolling social media while looking for mom content or photographers, you've probably come across the term lifestyle newborn photography. I hadn’t heard it either until I was pregnant with my first. If you’re feeling curious about what it actually means, and whether natural newborn photos at home might be right for your family, this post is for you.
We’ll talk about what lifestyle newborn photography really is, what happens during an in-home newborn session, and why so many families are choosing relaxed, newborn photos at home over traditional studio setups.
Are Lifestyle Newborn Photos Taken at Home?
Yes! Lifestyle newborn photos are taken right in your home, which is a huge part of what makes them so special.
While there is the option to choose a local natural light studio with lifestyle-style posing, they are most commonly photographed in-home. The goal of in-home photos is to capture memories with your baby in the space where real life is already happening, the nursery you spent hours preparing, the couch you snuggle up on while nursing new baby and reading a story to your toddler, the chair by the window where you rock them to sleep as you watch the night stars turn to dawn.
Personally, I can be a sentimental homebody. The memories of my baby that I crave are the ones in a real life setting, where I get to hold them, let my toddlers be in their own space to naturally join in the session, (maybe read a book together during photos) and be in the space that our favorite family memories unfold.
I want to remember what the season actually felt like, just with an elevated feel that lifestyle photographers do so well to craft those candid moments in a flattering way.
What happens during an at-home newborn session?
When I arrive at your home, I'll probably ask about your birth, I'm a sucker for a good birth story! I bring out my gear and any client closet outfits you've chosen. While you get changed into client closet pieces, I’ll make sure overhead lights are off and scout your home for the rooms with the best natural light.
If you have other kids, I love letting them give me the house tour. It helps them feel comfortable with me, especially if we haven’t met before, and it gives them a sense of ownership in the session so it’s not just about the new baby in their eyes.
Once everyone is ready, we start! I usually love using the nursery and master bedroom if lighting allows, but sometimes families have other meaningful spaces with beautiful light, I happily incorporate those as well.
My sessions are baby-led, which means we go at your little one’s pace. We take breaks for feeding, changing, or soothing, and I never force a baby into anything that upsets them. I’ll help set you and your family in flattering, natural poses, giving gentle prompts to encourage real interaction that allows for those amazing candid moments. Then I step back and quietly capture all the angles before moving to a new location in your home. With other children, we incorporate them in a low pressure and playful way, so that no one is left out or pressured.
What should you wear for natural newborn photos?
I'm a firm believer that choosing outfits intentionally helps set the stage for amazing photos. This doesn't mean you have to wear a dramatic gown (though I have a gorgeous selection in my client closet for you to choose from if that sounds like the romantic storybook dream you've been waiting to fulfill!)
For newborn photos, you want to stick with primarily neutral tones: creams, tans, some brown, denims can work for dad or little boys, and sparingly used pops of color.
You want to avoid logos, loud and distracting colors and patterns, and wearing shoes in the house... (because that kind of kills the cozy vibe!) Socks or bare feet are best for lifestyle in-home photography.
Neutral tones are the best choice because they do not distract from the delicate features of your baby or clash with the elements in your home. They are more likely to stand the test of time as your decor style changes and they add a simple, elevated touch to your photos without looking stiff or formal. Neutral tones also tend to work best with indoor lighting, helping to avoid overly dark, bright, or colorful tones.
Texture is also very important for newborn photos. I love incorporating knits, lace, muslin blankets, and similar textures for the baby’s outfit and blankets in the session. This is another subtle way to add interest and beauty to the already amazing features of your little one and the special moments your family shares.
Lifestyle vs Posed Newborn Photography: What's the Difference?
Posed newborn photography is what most people picture when they think of newborn photos. These are photos primarily of baby sleeping, with perfectly smooth skin, often in a bucket, on a plain background, wrapped in an intricate swaddle, or dressed in a tiny outfit with suspenders or other props.
These sessions can be stunning, but they often take a lot of time. You may go to a studio and wait in a waiting room for several hours while the photographer captures your baby with all the props and backgrounds you selected.
Lifestyle newborn photography is much more family-centered. The session takes place in your own home, and your baby can stay in your arms the entire time if you want. Photos are taken in the spaces you live in every day, capturing real life while still telling a story intentionally and artistically through emotion and composition, rather than relying on props or elaborate wrapping.
Each style appeals to different moms for different reasons. You get to choose the style that resonates most with you and your family!
When should you schedule newborn photos?
The best time to take newborn photos is within the first two weeks of baby's life, but I photograph babies at home up to three months old. Some babies have health considerations, and other families just want to wait until baby is more alert and interactive. That sleepy, fresh newborn stage is best captured in the first few weeks.
I recommend booking your session well in advance. Most of my clients book their maternity + newborn photos at the same time. I always pencil in their due date on my calendar so that time is reserved, and once baby is born, we decide on the official date.
Booking before baby comes gives time for important planning details, choosing outfits, etc., so that once baby arrives you don't have to think about anything other than enjoying that wonderful newborn bubble!
Looking for a maternity and newborn photographer in Maryville?
I'd love to work with your family to document your pregnancy, and celebrate your newborn with a cozy in home newborn session, and into the first year if you choose my First Year Collection. I'm based here in Maryville, and love serving local families here and in the surrounding Knoxville area communities.
Whatever you choose, I am so happy for you and your family to experience the joy of welcoming another little one to your home!
Click below to learn more about working with me, or explore other posts I've written to serve you during this special time of life!