It may seem like all newborn sessions would be the same. Just take some pictures of the cute baby, right? But there is actually a LOT that goes into a newborn photo shoot, and there are several things to think about when scheduling your newborn session! When clients reach out to me, most of them don’t even know where to start, or how many choices they really have. I thought it could be helpful to talk about the different types of newborn photo session and show you some of the styles I offer! I like to incorporate one or two of these into each session so that you get a variety of images. Even if you simply want the traditional photos, there are plenty of ways to make each set up unique and special for you and your sweet baby!

Themed Newborn Photo Session

Themed shoots have become something I deeply enjoy, and possibly my favorite type of newborn photo session! It all started with the FRIENDS themed newborn photo shoot I did in 2020, right before the pandemic took a nasty turn. I had so much fun doing that shoot (psssst… there’s big news on that coming soon)! After that experience, I found creative themed shoots were a great place for me to stretch my creative muscles and play! I mean really, the sky is the limit (not really…. we can totally do a space theme) when it comes to the types of themed sessions we can do! Think of your favorite t.v. show, movie, actor, sports team, style of decor for your nursery, favorite book, and more! Do you LOVE succulents? Let’s do it! Does The Office crack you up every day? Let’s bring that laughter and joy to the photos! Is Spider Man your favorite comic book hero? Let’s photograph your friendly neighborhood spider baby! Are you a fan of Doctor Who? I’ve got you covered. Obsessed with Coca-Cola? Check! A theme can be pretty much anything, AND the best part is, it can be combined with the Classic Session! I like to make sure that each session has a few different backdrops and vibes, so that there are plenty of pictures for my clients to choose from. My themed sessions do cost a little bit more, because of the props and new backdrops, but trust me, it’s TOTALLY WORTH IT!

Traditional Classic Newborn Photo Session

The traditional session is exactly how it sounds: this is baby and baby alone. Normally, your newborn is wrapped up tight and sleeping the majority of the time. I have occasionally photographed babies who refused to sleep, but they were still content in the swaddle/wrap! This is very classic and posed, and I incorporate colors you love! Anything that isn’t a FULL ON theme can be used for these classic shoots. Glimpses of small teddy bears or little stuffies for your newborn to hold are always fun, and a very simple addition to these photos.

Lifestyle Newborn Photo Session

So many people love the lifestyle look! These photos are normally taken in the client’s home, as opposed to in the studio. I like to incorporate the nursery, living spaces, and anything else in the home that tells the story of life with a new baby! People like these lifestyle newborn photo sessions because they feel less posed, and more like it’s in the realistic documentary style. Lifestyle newborn photo sessions aren’t my most requested session, but they’re still a great way capture the real emotions of the family, and is a great way to incorporate pets, too! I also love this type of session because the parents are doing most of the holding, which always calms newborns so well!

Incorporating Family Into Your Newborn Photo Session

Incorporating family into a newborn session is great! I always suggest it, because as a new parent you may find yourself focusing more on taking photos of your baby, and not wanting to take pictures of yourself. Most new moms, or even moms of multiples, feel “not themselves” after giving birth, which is totally expected. However, I always try to encourage moms to jump into at least one picture, because this is a time that they can’t get back! Even if it’s as simple as her hands being in the photos, it’s always worth it, and families love the memories we create together. Families with multiple children LOVE incorporating their other kids in a newborn session. The bond between siblings is unlike any other, and in the first few weeks, the new big brother/sister are so enthralled and interested in this new addition that we can get some GREAT interaction pictures.

Do you have any other questions, or want more inspiration? Contact me for your one-on-one consultation, today!