Your Lifestyle Photography Studio Session by Portland Newborn Photographer, The Motherhood Chronicles

In the Pacific Northwest, indoor photography is a great option for families (especially families with newborns!) When the rain is pouring, the wind is blowing and the temperatures are downright frigid, it’s a great time to get cozy in the studio. If your home isn’t an option for newborn/family photography, a studio makes a fantastic alternative.

When do we schedule a newborn session?

The beauty of lifestyle newborn photography means we can do photos whenever you and your family are ready. You might worry when you’re exhausted and in the thick of the postpartum fog that a photoshoot is just too much, too overwhelming (been there! Also, postpartum anxiety wasn’t my best friend). The truth of it is though, that these sessions are so relaxed and laid back that there’s really not much to do beyond holding and cuddling your baby.

The best time of day for in-home sessions is usually in the morning (starting between 10am and noon usually gives the best light and happiest baby). I realize sometimes with siblings/family members this time frame is not always possible and I’ll do my best to work with whatever time works for your family. I like to be sure we aren’t interfering with napping toddler’s schedules, especially

How long does a typical session last?

Most sessions last 1-2 hours but there really is no rush. I like to plan on extra time for feedings, diaper changes and calming fussy babes so there’s no pressure for the parents to produce a perfectly happy, sleepy baby! The session is totally baby/child led so there is no stress.

Do you use or bring props?

Not typically! Being a lifestyle photographer, I tend to lean towards less is more. My goal is to capture you and your family organically so this kind of shoot is heavy on the candid nature of a session. The studio I shoot in does have simple baskets, pillows, swaddles, etc for some fun options if baby is content for those shots and bringing your own change of outfits/swaddles for baby is absolutely okay. I do love when we get some a variety of pictures of babe in different outfits and blankets!

My baby is so fussy and I’m afraid she’ll cry!

This is the wonderful thing about lifestyle sessions. We can stop at any time and you have all the time you need to relax. Babies cry. It’s normal and totally okay. There is no pressure to have a perfectly happy baby. Baby can sleep or be awake and both are great! We’ll capture life as it happens and sometimes that means being flexible.

Having said that, there are a few tips to keep in mind that can help a shoot go more smoothly!

• For our best shot at a content baby, we’ll crank up that heat! Your newborn will be much happier in a warm, cozy environment. This allows for your baby to be comfortable for any naked/diaper pictures and isn’t so upset to have their clothes changed if the space is extra warm.

• Another tip for content babies is to take as much time as you need to be sure they have a full belly, burped and have a dry diaper. I’m more than willing to capture those sweet moments of nursing or bottle feeding!

My son/daughter doesn’t want anything to do with the new baby. How will we make photos work with them?

Also totally normal. A new addition to the family is a huge adjustment! I will never force or coerce kids to get in the frame. If they show interest, we’ll take photos involving them first and make it fun! Sometimes a simple game of “can you show me baby’s nose?” does the trick but sometimes it doesn’t and we let them be. The goal is to never force a child or punish them if they’re not feeling it.

We are so awkward in front of the camera. Will we have guidance?

Of course! I will definitely guide you into a position keeping in mind the light, and then ask you to engage with your family (put this hand on baby’s back, rest your head on partner’s shoulder, etc) to capture those beautiful, natural expressions.