If you are expecting a baby, you have probably started some research about newborn photography. You probably came across different terms such as lifestyle photography and posed newborn photography. So what’s the difference?
Posed newborn photography
Posed newborn photography is a specialised genre of photography that focuses on capturing artistic of newborn babies. The aim is to create visually pleasing and adorable portraits that highlight the delicate features of your newborn. It involves carefully arranging and posing baby in various positions, often using props and accessories such bean bags, baskets, blankets, beanies headbands, and wraps to enhance the overall aesthetic.
In posed newborn photography, the photographer typically works with babies who are between 5 and 14 days old, as they are usually more sleepy are still forming bones and therefore are more flexible and able to be posed in such a ‘curly’ way. It’s primordial to ensure the safety and comfort of your baby throughout the session. These sessions can also take longer as the photographer carefully positions the baby and adjusts the props and accessories to create the desired look.
These photo sessions are usually conducted in a controlled studio environment where the photographer has access to a variety of props, backdrops, and lighting equipment. I usually work within the comfort of your own home and bring materials and other props with me.
Lifestyle photography
Unlike posed newborn photography, lifestyle photography to me is a more relaxed and casual approach to newborn photography. The photos are usually done in your home and the photographer aims to document the everyday moments and capture the natural connection between your baby and each of your family members.
The baby is not typically posed in specific positions but rather photographed in a more organic and spontaneous manner.
Lifestyle newborn photography sessions are usually conducted within the first few weeks after the baby’s birth to capture the early moments of bonding and adjustment within the family. The emphasis is on capturing the love, joy, and natural expressions that arise during this special time create authentic and storytelling images.
Which one to choose from?
There are several things you might want to take into consideration when choosing which newborn session is best for you and your baby.
The first thing to consider is what you are planning to do with your photos. Posed photographs are often cherished by parents as precious keepsakes and are typically used for birth announcements, nursery decorations and family photo album.
On the other hand, you might prefer pictures of your baby into your home decor which can tell beautiful story of the newborn’s arrival and their place within the family. These images are often cherished as a documentation of the family’s journey and serve as a reminder of the early days with their little one.
As I offer my services within the comfort of your own home, you could always choose a bit both and find somewhere in the middle.
Ultimately, the choice between posed and lifestyle newborn photography comes down to your personal preference. Both styles offer unique ways to cherish and make precious memories that will last a lifetime.
