Newborn lifestyle photo prep tips for moms
Are you feeling exhausted, anxious and head-over-heels in love? Congratulations. You must be a mom! There’s nothing I want more from you during your lifestyle newborn session than to be totally engrossed (along with dad!) in your squeaky, wrinkly, precious newborn. I’m there to capture you two (and any siblings) as you soak in every scent, every cry, and every move from that wonderful human you just made. Here are my best newborn lifestyle photo tips to prepare you for your session! 
Lifestyle Photo Session: What to Expect
When photographers use the phrase “lifestyle session,” it can often lead to confusion. If you don’t have a clear picture in your mind of what it means, it can be hard to know what to expect. Lifestyle photography is meant to capture real life, love and emotions as shown by each individual family member.Newborn lifestyle photo sessions typically take place inside the home to showcase a family’s everyday life. I look for all the details and visual cues to tell your family’s story and how this newly born little one has recently entered into it. If there are particular objects or spaces in the home that are sentimental–we will definitely use them! 
Tip #1: The Best Thing You Can Do Is Love
In my mind, the best newborn lifestyle photo tips I can give are the ones that encourage you to do what comes most naturally. Specifically, in loving one another. Find a moment to share a word of appreciation for how much you value your spouse. Love on your toddler who is fighting to understand this new tiny human in his mother’s arms. Love yourself as you look in the mirror and see a new woman who gave life and who continues to give life to her baby.Most importantly, show love to your newborn. You know these days won't last and the baby’s tears are only gentle cries of communication. Open the curtains to let the light in and let your newborn photographer do the rest. When love is present, it is easy to photograph it well.
“Find a moment to share a word of appreciation for how much you value your spouse. Love on your toddler...”
Tip #2: Be as Comfortable as Possible
Dress for comfort. You can dress as low-key as you like in either color or pattern. Avoid plaid shirts or anything with logos. Leggings with a cozy sweater or shirt, or a loose-fitting dress all make for an easy outfit that works well for nursing. I love earthy tones that vibe with the colors in your home. Honestly, even with the many newborn lifestyle photo tips I can offer, you can still wear whatever is most comfortable for you!
Tip #3: Prepare the Nursery & Master Bedroom
Make space by large windows because I just love working with natural light! Clear areas of clutter as I’ll use this to capture you two with your little one. Often, I start in the nursery where parents have put the most effort and love into creating a welcoming place for their baby. I use the light from windows to frame the newborn with mom and dad and begin to document your family as you naturally interact with your child. The nursery won’t look this way forever so this is our chance to show off all of your carefully selected decor!
Tip #4: Don’t Stress–Seriously Don’t
Your home doesn’t have to be perfect. Let the dishes in the sink go since I’ll only need a few clutter-free areas. This session is meant to capture your love as the mom and dad of your newborn baby. And the love of any siblings who may be present! Doing so all within the warm walls of the home you have built together is where those natural but magical moments happen.All of those unplanned moments, when the pup slips in to sniff the baby's head, the newborn yawns, or when we hear those tired cries that only a new baby can make are perfect examples of moments in time that one day will be forgotten. As your newborn photographer, I’m here to provide you with a chance to slow down. To take your time to soak in those newborn smells, or feel the grasp of your baby’s hand around your finger.
When you book with me, I send out my Newborn Lifestyle Photo Tips Guide (which includes a section just for dads!) a few days before your session to help you prepare. Ready for your in-home session? Let’s chat!