Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve been introducing you to what is lifestyle newborn photography. We talked about the difference between posed sessions and lifestyle sessions and why I love a casual lifestyle newborn photoshoot.
Lifestyle baby photos are all about being relaxed at home. You probably are wondering how can you prepare your home and your family for your session. It’s not as hard as it sounds I promise! I’m going to break things down for you in this simple guide on How to Prepare for a Lifestyle Newborn Photoshoot.
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What’s Trending in Lifestyle Newborn Photography for 2025
As Virginia’s Best Maternity and Newborn Photographer (2023-2024) and Master Photographer certified by NAPCP, I’ve seen lifestyle newborn photography evolve significantly. Here’s what families are loving in 2025:
Authentic Documentary Moments: Parents want real interactions – nursing sessions, diaper changes, and genuine family snuggles rather than posed perfection.
Multi-Generational Sessions: Including grandparents and extended family in lifestyle sessions has become incredibly popular, especially post-pandemic.
Sustainable Approach: Using meaningful family items like heirloom blankets, handmade quilts, or items from baby’s nursery rather than bringing external props.
Pet Integration: More families are requesting their furry family members be included naturally in the session – and I absolutely love capturing these bonds!
Choosing the Perfect Locations in Your Home
After photographing hundreds of lifestyle newborn sessions throughout Virginia, I’ve learned that every home has its own unique charm. During our pre-session consultation, I’ll help you identify the best spots, but here’s what typically works beautifully:
The Nursery: This is where we’ll start our newborn photoshoot. I love to document all the adorable elements of a nursery. The mobile that was picked out after hours of Etsy searches, the blanket that was handmade by an excited Grandma, the rocking chair that has been passed down for generations.
Those are the elements that add to the overall design you’ve created. I want to make sure we capture that. If you are looking for help decorating your nursery check out this article The Ultimate Checklist- How to create the Best Baby Nursery by porch.com.
Master Bedroom: Often has the best natural light and provides an intimate space for family cuddles. The bed creates a comfortable gathering spot for the whole family.
Living Room: Great for lifestyle shots of daily routines – reading books, relaxing on the couch, or playing with older siblings.
Bonus Spaces: Don’t overlook a bright hallway, sunroom, or even a beautiful staircase – sometimes the most unexpected spots create magical lifestyle newborn photos.
Typically after that, we will move to either the master bedroom or the living room. Lighting will dictate this. I’m looking for a room with the best light that has space for the whole family to cuddle. A bed or a couch is the perfect spot to gather everyone including the family dogs for a beautiful portrait.
Now let’s talk about cleaning
I have three children and I vividly remember the plethora of houseguests after baby. I completely understand how overwhelming it can be to take care of the baby plus entertain the family and try to recover from delivery. So do not stress about cleaning. Like I said we are only going to be in two locations.
So your entire house DOES NOT need to be spotless! In fact, if I see a spot I want to shoot and there is stuff in the way I will happily move things around to give you the illusion of a spotless house. I just might need a slight reminder of where to put it back! If it fits in the budget I highly recommend having your house cleaned before the baby arrives so it is one less thing to stress about!
Preparing Your Family for the Perfect Newborn Lifestyle Photography Session
The first question I always get is what are we going to wear?!?!?
What to Wear in 2025: The trend is toward soft, neutral tones and comfortable clothing that reflects your family’s natural style. I’ve got you covered, don’t worry! I have great what to wear guides and tips with easy outfit ideas. Plus check out this blog post What to Wear for Lifestyle Newborn Photos! So you can relax knowing everyone will look stylish and put together for your lifestyle newborn photoshoot.
Setting Expectations:
- For Dad: Plan for 1-2 hours total, but you’ll only be actively photographed for about 20 minutes
- For Siblings: I make sessions fun! Bring a special snack or small toy as motivation
- For Extended Family: If grandparents are joining, let them know we’ll capture both formal family portraits and candid interaction shots
Timing Considerations: Lifestyle newborn photoshoots work best when scheduled around baby’s natural rhythm. We’ll plan the session during a time when baby typically feeds and sleeps well.
The second part of preparing your family is letting them know what to expect. For Dad, know that I will need 1-2 hours of your time but I won’t be photographing you the entire time. In fact, you’ll probably only be in front of the camera 20min or so. If you have other children then Dad will spend a good portion of time keeping them entertained before and after their turn. For siblings tell them that someone fun is coming over to take their picture. Feel free to offer bribes for good behavior, you have my full support!
Preparing mom
You are the most important person in this session. You are the comforting arms that your baby will settle down in, you are the food source, and if you are stressed the baby will pick up on it. So give yourself an extra hour to get ready. I’m not kidding. I want you to take your time and have time to feed the baby as you get ready. The more relaxed and beautiful you feel the better the photos. Everyone picks up on mom’s mood so as long as you are happy they will be too!
Preparing baby
This part is pretty simple, make sure they have a full belly when I arrive along with a clean diaper. Plain white diapers work best so patterns don’t show through. Dress the baby in a simple white short sleeve onesie so I can get started with photos of them in the nursery. We can take breaks during the session for feeding top offs if needed. Have any special props like bows for girls ready so I can incorporate them into the photos.
About halfway through our lifestyle newborn photoshoot we can swaddle the baby in a cute swaddle blanket (I’ve linked to some of my favs here) or switch to a knotted gown for a different look.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lifestyle Newborn Photography
What’s the difference between lifestyle and posed newborn photography?
Lifestyle sessions capture your family’s natural interactions in your home environment, while posed sessions focus on artistic arrangements with props and elaborate setups.
How long do lifestyle newborn photoshoots take?
I schedule for up to 90 minutes, allowing plenty of time for feeding breaks and wardrobe changes without feeling rushed.
What if my house isn’t “photo-ready”?
Don’t worry! I focus on 2-3 main areas and can work around everyday life. Your home’s lived-in feel actually adds authenticity to the images.
Can we include our pets in the session?
Absolutely! Pet inclusion is trending in 2025, and I love capturing the bond between your baby and furry family members.
What’s the best age for a lifestyle newborn session?
Ideally within the first 2-3 weeks when babies are sleepiest, but lifestyle sessions can work beautifully with older newborns too.
How to Prepare for a Lifestyle Newborn Photoshoot
Preparing for your lifestyle newborn photoshoot doesn’t have to be stressful – it’s all about creating a comfortable environment where your family’s natural love can shine through.
As your Charlottesville and Richmond VA newborn photographer I’ll guide you through every step to ensure a relaxed, beautiful session.
Remember, the goal of lifestyle newborn photography is to document this precious time authentically, celebrating your growing family in the comfort of your own home. These images will become treasured family heirlooms that tell the story of your little one’s earliest days and the love that surrounds them.
Ready to capture these fleeting moments with a professional newborn photoshoot? Contact me today to discuss your vision and secure your session date!
Melissa Arlena is an award winning lifestyle newborn photographer in Charlottesville and Richmond, Virginia who has earned her Master Photographer Certification from NAPCP in maternity, newborn and family photography. Her natural and simple work has been featured in magazines and online blogs worldwide. She has been named Best Maternity and Newborn Photographer in Richmond and Charlottesville, VA in 2024.
