Lifestyle Photography vs. Posed Newborn Photography: Which Is Right for You?
As a parent-to-be or new parent, choosing how you want to document your baby’s early moments can feel like a big decision. Two of the most popular options are lifestyle newborn photography and posed newborn photography, each offering its own unique charm and style. At Elizabeth Lang Photography, located in Surrey near Vancouver, I’m here to help you understand the difference between these two styles so you can choose the one that best suits your family’s personality and vision.
Whether you’re drawn to a relaxed, candid approach or prefer the artistry of intricate poses, both styles result in beautiful images you’ll cherish forever. Let’s dive into what makes each style unique and how to decide which is right for you.
Lifestyle Newborn Photography
Lifestyle photography focuses on capturing the natural interactions and connections between family members in a relaxed, comfortable environment. It’s about documenting real moments with a more organic, candid style, and that’s exactly why it resonates with so many families.
In a lifestyle session, I use neutral colors and natural flowing fabrics to create a soft, soothing atmosphere that highlights your baby’s innocence and your family’s bond. Think cozy blankets, soft textures, and soothing tones — everything that adds to that feeling of warmth and connection.
One of the best features of lifestyle photography is its emphasis on natural light, often from windows or soft, diffused lighting. In my studio, I use a strobes outside of my window during the darker months to help boost that natural sunlight. But in general, lifestyle photos aim to be as natural and authentic as possible.
Posed Newborn Photography
Posed newborn photography, on the other hand, focuses on creating stunning, classic portraits with a more formal approach. If you’re looking for detailed, intricate poses that showcase your baby’s tiny features, such as the froggy pose, side-lying pose, or even close-ups of those precious little hands and feet, posed photography is your perfect choice. Posed photography also puts more emphasis on props such as tiny beds and rustic buckets.
In posed sessions, the baby is typically positioned in a way that highlights their softness and beauty, often in ways they wouldn’t naturally do themselves. For example, a tummy pose with just the right curve of the back and fingers gently placed under the cheek for that perfect, peaceful look is a hallmark of posed newborn photography. It’s all about precision, patience, and capturing the baby in the most serene, beautiful way possible.
These poses often take a bit more time and focus to execute properly. Posed newborn sessions are best done within the baby’s first few weeks, when they are still very sleepy and flexible. The process can be more time-consuming and requires a higher level of patience and care to ensure the poses are just right. If you’re seeking more intricate, structured shots, posed newborn photography may be the best option for you.
Which One is Right for You?
When deciding between lifestyle and posed newborn photography, think about what speaks to you most.
- Lifestyle sessions are perfect for those who want to capture the authentic emotions and connections between family members. If you want to focus on the moments you naturally share with your baby — like cuddling, holding hands, or gazing at each other — lifestyle photography might be the better option for you.
- On the other hand, if you are drawn to classic, beautifully posed portraits that showcase your baby’s tiny features in a more formal way, posed newborn photography may be the perfect fit. It allows for more intricate shots and stunning details that can be displayed as timeless works of art in your home.
A Mix of Both?
You might be thinking, “Can I have both?” Absolutely! Many families love the idea of blending lifestyle and posed photography in their session. It’s entirely possible to start with some relaxed, candid shots and then transition into some detailed poses that showcase your baby’s tiny features. This approach allows you to have the best of both worlds, capturing both the natural connections and timeless portraits.
At Elizabeth Lang Photography, I am happy to work with you to create a session that suits your style and vision. Whether you choose a relaxed, lifestyle approach or the meticulous detail of posed newborn photography (or both!), I’ll make sure you leave with beautiful, meaningful images that you’ll treasure for years to come. I want your session to be what you want! Please have a look through my portfolio and send along images that speak to you. We will work together to plan a session that includes images you want to create using the colours and props you prefer.
Ready to book your session? Whether you're drawn to lifestyle or posed newborn photography, I’d love to help you create memories that last a lifetime. Contact me today to schedule your newborn session at Elizabeth Lang Photographyin Surrey, near Vancouver.
YOUR NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION WITH ELIZABETH LANG PHOTOGRAPHY