Newborn Pictures: What is Lifestyle Newborn Photography?

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I am Neyssa Lee a Seattle area photographer. I'm a mom of 6, Disney obsessed, who helps you see the beauty, love and joy, in your own family’s chaos.  Learn more by heading to my ABOUT ME page.

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Hi, I'm Neyssa

There are many terms thrown around in the photography world. How do you know who the right photographer for your newborn pictures is?

When you are trying to decide on a photographer, the first thing to note is what style of photography are you looking for? Do you want your baby posed in a basket with various props and outfits or do you want something more natural? There is no “correct” answer, just what is right for your family. 

Mother kissing baby for newborn pictures during Seattle photo session

I am a lifestyle newborn photographer.

Being a lifestyle newborn photographer means that I do not use props or unnatural poses for your baby. I believe that a baby is beautiful just as they are.  So while I will capture portraits of your baby, I let him lead the way, unfolding in ways most comfortable for him. Often parents will comment on how baby sleeps is just like they did in womb (and they even have ultrasounds to prove it)!

Your gallery of newborn pictures will have photos of the entire family, siblings, each parent individually with baby, and baby by herself. The goal is to capture those tiny newborn details, along with the immense love and joy your family has surrounding this newest family member. 

Mother holding newborn baby while little boy kisses her head during Seattle newborn photos

Newborn pictures take place in your own home.

When you just had a baby, the last thing you want to do is pack up and go somewhere.  Being in your own home means everyone is more comfortable, at ease, and relaxed for newborn pictures. It also means we can capture where life with a newborn happens. Most commonly, we use mom and dad’s room, the nursery, and/or the living room.

Lifestyle Newborn Photography, Photo of mom in nursery with newborn baby

I guide you into poses with mom and baby’s comfort and safety in mind.

I know that you just had a baby, which means that not all positions are comfortable. As a mom of 6 and long time newborn photographer, I know, firsthand, the feeling and insecurities around our bodies after giving birth.

Therefore, I let mom and baby be the leads for what we do. Standing after delivering is often taxing. When you need to sit, we do. As baby needs to be held, then mom or dad hold that baby close. I use flattering angles, light and positions that put the focus on your baby and your love for your family.

Even more, because you are the one holding your baby, she will be calm and relaxed for your newborn pictures. There is no added stress of trying to get baby to sleep just to capture a photo of them in an unnatural prop.

black and white photo of kids looking out window with mom and baby nearby

In the end, lifestyle newborn pictures capture your family as you are in your home with gentle posing and guidance.

When you see your gallery of images I want you to feel something. I want them to be a true reminder of this time right after welcoming a baby into your lives.

Your newborn pictures will represent those things that you will want to remember most. Details like the way your baby snuggled up in your arms. fit on your husband’s chest. You will love to see the way your kids loved on their baby sister when you first brought her home. 

We all know, our babies grow much too quickly. Those first few weeks can feel like a blur of 2 hour blocks of time blended together.

However, with newborn pictures you can rest easy knowing your baby is beautifully photographed.

Black and white baby photo of baby smiling in her sleep
Seattle photographers photo of baby's hand on mothers

Planning to have lifestyle newborn pictures taken? I share plenty of resources to help you prepare for a newborn photography session.

Black and white photo of baby in mom's arms while little boy looks out the window
baby against mom's chest
 photo of newborn baby asleep with mom nearby
 Photo of mom standing smiling at swaddled newborn baby girl during Seattle newborn photos
 photo of newborn baby feet
 baby details, photo of newborn baby rolls
Photo of mom kissing newborn baby cheek
 black and white photo of newborn asleep against moms chest