Trying to decide which type of newborn session is the best fit for your family? Here’s everything you need to know about studio vs in-home sessions, plus breaking down the difference between posed and lifestyle sessions.
Welcoming a new baby into your family is a moment you’ll want to remember forever. Those teeny toes, the sleepy little stretches, the way they curl perfectly into your arms. Talk about cuteness overload. If you’ve done any kind of research at all for newborn photography, you’ve probably noticed that there are SO many different options out there for newborn sessions. Especially when it comes to choosing between an in-home or studio newborn session.
So how do you decide which to go with? Both types of newborn sessions are beautiful in their own way, and the best choice truly depends on what vibe feels right for your family. Below, I’m breaking down the differences (and sharing what my hybrid style looks like!) so you can feel confident creating the perfect session for your family’s style and personality!
Studio Newborn Sessions
Studio newborn sessions are generally considered the more classic or traditional option. Think soft, even lighting and those sweet, curled up poses we all adore.
What to Expect in a Studio Session:
- A clean, minimal backdrop (my studio is known for its bright, classic neutral space!)
- Professional lighting for consistent and flattering images
- Access to cozy blankets, cute wraps, and simple props
- A calm environment designed for sleepy, posed images
- An overall polished, timeless feel
- Bonus: you don’t have to clean your house!
Studio sessions are an amazing choice if you love the look of posed newborn photography and want those classic images where your little one is all wrapped up or sleeping peacefully on a soft blanket. They’re perfect for families who want a more of a clean, consistent look and appreciate the controlled environment a studio provides.
In-Home Newborn Sessions
If a studio session isn’t really your vibe, no worries. I’ll come to you! In-home sessions can be just as cozy and perfect, usually with more of a natural vibe.
What to Expect in an In-Home Session:
- Photos that reflect authentic and candid moments of your family
- More of a cozy vibe with soft, natural lighting
- We get to capture sweet personal details of their room and crib
- A more laid back and relaxed experience… because you are in YOUR element!
- Bonus: You don’t have to deal with the stress of packing things up and getting everyone out the door
In-home sessions are perfect if you prefer candid moments over posed shots. They typically have more of an intimate, informal, and personal vibe. Your newborn photos will be personalized to your family because we will be in your space! Years from now, when your little one’s room has changed for the 10th time and they’ve long outgrown the crib and rocking chair, these photos will take you right back.
Lifestyle Vs. Posed: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve been researching newborn photography, you’ve probably also seen the terms posed and lifestyle. Here’s a quick rundown:
Posed Newborn Photography
- Most often done in a studio
- Uses blankets and wraps to get baby in those classic curled-up positions
- Focuses on sleeping newborn portraits
- Polished, timeless, traditional
Lifestyle Newborn Photography
- Usually done in the family’s home
- Less posed, more candid
- Focuses on connection, emotion, and natural everyday moments (like snuggling, feeding, bath time, and more)
My Newborn Photography Style: The Best of Both Worlds
The good news? If you book a newborn session with me, you don’t have to choose between lifestyle or posed. My style blends a little of both. I add aspects of each to create a unique style that is the best of both worlds!
The majority of my newborn sessions take place in my studio in Somerset, Wisconsin. I use professional lighting and a clean, neutral backdrop (plus the amount of natural lighting in my studio is unreal). I do have a handful of classic swaddled poses I like to incorporate (nothing overly structured). But I take a more natural approach than many other studio photographers and really focus on capturing more candid shots and relaxed moments. I’m all about capturing the natural connection between you and your baby!
That said…if you’re dreaming of an in-home lifestyle session, I absolutely love those too. Whether we’re capturing your baby snoozing in their crib or you curled up on your bed soaking in those newborn snuggles, I’m here for it and would love to come to you for your newborn session!
How to Choose the Right Fit for Your Family
Here are a few questions to help you decide if you should go with an in-home or studio newborn session:
1. What style of images are you drawn to?
- If you love polished, airy, posed images, then a studio session will probably be the best fit.
- If you prefer candid, intimate, real-life moments, then an in-home session might be perfect.
2. How do you want your photos to feel?
- Studio images feel clean, classic and timeless.
- In-home images feel cozy, personal, and nostalgic.
3. What environment will help you feel relaxed?
- If you are dreading the idea of getting your house ready for photos, come on in for a studio session. The space will be all ready for you and you won’t have to do a thing.
- Do you prefer the comfort, convenience and familiarity of your home? I’ll come to you!
4. Do you want to include nursery details?
- If capturing your baby’s room and more of the sentimental details are important to you, an in-home session is the way to go.
Still Not Sure? Let’s Chat!
Every family is different, and the newborn stage goes by ridiculously fast. My goal is always to help you choose the session type that feels most perfectly you.
If you’re unsure whether to go with an in-home or studio newborn session, just send me a message! I’m always happy to walk you through all the options and help create the session that aligns best with your vision, your space, and your family’s personality.
More to Help You Plan Your Newborn Session:
