Let's chat about the world of professional newborn photography, comparing the pros and cons of studio sessions, known for their posed setups, and lifestyle in-home sessions, loved for their natural and relaxed approach. As a mum myself and a Worcester newborn photographer, I've decided to do this comparison so you can easily make the best decision for your family.
Studio Newborn Photography:
Pros:
One of the primary advantages of studio sessions is the controlled environment they offer. Newborn photographers can manipulate lighting and backgrounds to create stunning and polished images.
It is relatively easy to achieve a desired image with classic poses and clean backgrounds.
Studios often have a huge choice of props, blankets, and accessories specifically designed for newborn photography.
Studio photographers are experienced in posing newborns in adorable and sometimes whimsical positions. They are trained and insured to do so. These posed shots can result in breath-taking art like images that highlight the beauty and innocence of your little one.
No need to prepare or tidy up the house.
Cons :
The focus in the baby, rather than the connection and interaction of the family.
For some babies, the unfamiliar environment of a studio setting can lead to discomfort and restlessness. This may result in longer sessions and potentially fewer natural and candid moments captured.
Less variety and fewer final images - approx. 30.
Some photographers include parents and siblings as well, but not all.
While posed shots can be visually stunning, they may lack the authenticity and intimacy of candid moments captured in a familiar home environment.
It might be stressful to leave the house on time with a newborn, especially after a c-section.
Photos are generally taken within the first 14 days of birth so babies can be mould into positions.
Lifestyle In-Home Newborn Photography
Pros:
In-home newborn photo sessions offer a sense of comfort and familiarity for both baby and parents. Being in their own space allows newborns as well as parents to relax and be themselves, resulting in more genuine and heartfelt images.
Lifestyle photoshoots focus on the entire family and capturing the everyday moments of family life. From snuggles on the couch to tender moments in the nursery, these images serve as a beautiful reflection of your family's love and connection.
Easier to include siblings, grandparents and pets.
Larger variety of scenes and more final images - approx. 80.
There's no need to travel to a studio, making it easier for parents, especially during the early days with a newborn or after a c-section.
Babies can be photographed at any age. Parents may choose to wait until they feel more confident, or until their baby starts to smile.
Cons:
While natural light can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, it can also be challenging in some homes. Photographers work with available natural light sources, which can sometimes result in photos taken by the kitchen window, or excluding the bedroom.
Some home prep is required. The photographer will need look around your home and choose the best places to photograph. They will also need to use a loo!
Unlike studio sessions, in-home newborn photo sessions may have limited access to props and backdrops. However, this can be seen as an opportunity to focus on the genuine moments and connections shared between family members.
Lifestyle newborn photographers prioritise capturing authentic moments over posed shots. While this results in genuine and heartfelt images, it may not appeal to those looking for more traditional newborn portraits, and sometimes your desired photos may not be possible.
Both studio and lifestyle in-home newborn photography offer unique opportunities to capture the beauty and joy of welcoming a new baby into the family. Whether you prefer the polished and posed aesthetic of a studio session or the authenticity and intimacy of an in-home session, the most important thing is to choose a photographer whose personality and style resonates with you and your family. After all, these photographs will serve as cherished mementos of this special time for MANY years to come.
When deciding between posed studio newborn photography and lifestyle in-home newborn photography, you should ask yourself the following questions:
What aesthetic am I drawn to? Do I prefer the classic, posed look often seen in studio photography, or do I prefer the more natural, candid style of lifestyle photography?
How comfortable am I with leaving home shortly after giving birth? Consider whether you feel up to traveling to a studio shortly after giving birth, or if you would prefer the convenience and comfort of having the photographer come to your home.
What environment do I want my newborn photographed in? Do I envision my baby surrounded by studio props and backdrops, or do I prefer the familiarity and warmth of our home environment?
How important is capturing authentic moments and interactions with my newborn? Do I want posed portraits, or am I more interested in capturing the everyday moments and emotions that occur naturally at home?
Do I have any specific preferences for props or themes? Consider whether you have a preference for specific props, themes, or settings that may be more readily available in a studio or can be incorporated into an in-home session.
How much time am I willing to invest in the photography session? Studio sessions may require more time for travel, setup, and posing, whereas in-home sessions tend to be more relaxed and flexible in terms of timing.
What level of involvement do I want in the session? Am I comfortable with directing and participating in the session, or do I prefer to leave it to the photographer to guide and direct the process?
What kind of memories do I want to cherish? Consider what type of memories you want to capture with your newborn. Do you want timeless, posed portraits, or do you want to document the natural moments and connections within your own home?
By considering these questions, I hope you can better determine which style of newborn photography aligns best with your preferences, lifestyle, and vision for capturing this special time with their newborn baby.
See what a my client wrote about her experience with both studio and in-home newborn photoshoots:
Don't rush it, do your research and make sure you feel 100% comfortable with your Worcester newborn photographer. On this BLOG I give tips how to find the right newborn photographer. Check it out - it will save you time!
I'm an experienced Worcester photographer and you can learn about my relaxed newborn photoshoots here. I'm also a mum and when my son was born I had a lifestyle photoshoot at home as well. Your in good hands, Mama.
Love,
Karina
P.S.: I offer a discount of £90 when you book a maternity photoshoot and a newborn photoshoot with me! Check out my Bump to Baby offer here.