Are you expecting a little one and considering a lifestyle in-home newborn photography session? As a Bend, Oregon newborn photographer, I know that choosing between an in-home session and a studio session can be a big decision. Both options offer unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your family’s preferences, home environment, and the style of images you envision.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of in-home newborn photography session.
What is Lifestyle In-Home Newborn Photography?
Lifestyle newborn photography focuses on natural, candid moments in the comfort of your own home. Rather than studio shots, these sessions capture authentic interactions between you, your baby, and your family in your own environment.
Pros of In-Home Newborn Photography in Bend, Oregon
1. Comfort & Convenience
Your home is your safe space, and having a newborn session at home means no need to pack up diaper bags, extra outfits, or drive to a studio. This is especially helpful in those first few weeks when sleep is scarce, and getting out of the house feels overwhelming.
2. Personalized & Meaningful Setting
Your home is part of your family’s story. From the nursery you lovingly decorated to the cozy living room where you snuggle up as a family, an in-home session allows me to document your life as it truly is—real, beautiful, and filled with love.
3. Natural, Unposed Moments
Lifestyle newborn sessions are all about capturing genuine emotions and interactions. There’s no pressure for baby to be asleep in a perfectly posed setup. Instead, I focus on the raw, intimate moments—big siblings meeting baby, parents rocking their newborn, and all the little details that make your family unique.
4. Great for Including Pets & Siblings
If you want to include siblings or furry family members, an in-home session makes it easy! Kids feel more at ease in their own environment, and pets can be part of the experience without the stress of traveling.
Cons of In-Home Newborn Photography
1. Lighting Can Be a Challenge
Natural light plays a huge role in my photography, and not all homes have large windows or ideal lighting conditions. However, as a photographer experienced in working with all kinds of lighting situations, I can make the most of what’s available to create beautiful images.
2. You Might Feel the Need to Tidy Up
Many parents worry that their home isn’t “photo-ready,” but I promise—it doesn’t have to be perfect! I focus on small, meaningful areas like the nursery, master bedroom, and cozy corners where you naturally spend time with your baby.
3. Less Control Over the Setting
Unlike a studio, your home may have elements that are harder to control, such as clutter, small spaces, or unpredictable lighting. But this also adds to the uniqueness of your session, making your images truly one of a kind.
What If You Want the Best of Both Worlds?
While my studio photography is in a controlled environment, I aim for it to be lifestyle-like in nature. I take the same shooting approach in my studio as I would in the comfort of my clients’ homes, capturing natural, relaxed interactions rather than stiff, overly posed images. You will get the same style of photography, just in a more controlled aesthetic and environment.
Still Not Sure? Let’s Chat!
As a Bend, Oregon newborn photographer, I’m here to help you choose the best option for your family. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy in-home session or a beautifully styled “lifestyle” studio shoot, I’d love to capture this special season in your life.
📩 Contact me today to book your newborn session or ask any questions—I can’t wait to create timeless images for your family!
Want to see more of my newborn work? Click here
Need a fresh look for your newborn session? My favorite go to place is Zara