Newborn Sessions: In-home Lifestyle or studio session? Which one should you choose?
This is probably one of the most common questions I receive when I have a newborn inquiry! The short answer is the decision is up to you and your preference, but I feel like I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t equip you with the pros and cons of each!
I will say that I have done many many sessions of both, and I don’t think I have ever had a client that has been disappointed with their choice—so it truly is a personal preference!
In-home lifestyle session:
Pros:
You don’t have to leave the house!
No stressing about a timeframe and getting out the door for a timed studio session.
Have a baby that is a little fussy or really likes to eat? We have more time to go at a slower pace.
Your home provides a backdrop of comfort and ease, therefore making everyone more comfortable.
Have older siblings? Your home allows space for them to play, eat snacks etc. in between poses!
Because we have more time and are in your home, sessions lend themselves to less posed and more lifestyle. A lot of looking and smiling at baby while sitting in the nursery, snuggling on the couch or on your bed.
Cons:
Although I tell clients, I just care about natural light, the aesthetic doesn’t matter as much, it still can be a stressor.
Although I will move any and everything out of the way that may distract from the photo, some clients feel stressed about cleaning and making sure things are “perfect” before having me in their home!
If you have furry family members, sometimes they can be a bit stressed when a new person is in the home, therefore barking the entirety of the session.
Dependent on your home and lighting, photos may have to be limited to one specific area based on the natural light.
Studio Sessions:
Studio Sessions:
Pros:
Lighting is consistent and plentiful
Although in one large room, there are a few different “spaces” for photos. Leather couch, variety of chairs/stools, and walls.
The space has a cohesive aesthetic, therefore all of your photos will have the same tone/vibe regardless of if you are on the couch or in a chair! .
If having someone to your home stresses you out, you don’t have to feel the pressure of getting your house “ready.
Cons:
Studio rental is an additional cost to the session. $60/hour
Because we are utilizing a rental space, our time is limited. There is often another family waiting on the space when our time is up, so we have to be on a strict schedule.
Baby will need to be fed as close to your arrival time as possible, as we do not have the luxury of slow feedings.
If you have older siblings, sometimes a new space can feel exciting or overwhelming
Due to the nature of the time frame, I have to work at a faster more efficient pace.
When you book a newborn session, we talk in length on what will be the best fit for your family, so this is not a decision you will have to make on your own! For more examples of newborn sessions in-home vs. studio, click here!
