Newborn Lifestyle Session Guide: Richmond Family Photographer

Those first few days of your baby’s life are incredibly precious. This newborn lifestyle session guide highlights how fleeting these moments are with lifestyle photography. Solo shots of baby, family together, and natural moments with parents or siblings if desired. Newborns change so quickly, which is why I’m passionate about capturing every tiny detail in your in-home session or my cozy downtown Richmond studio with a bed and couch for that authentic feel.

Newborn Lifestyle Session Guide Timing

For the best results from this newborn lifestyle session guide, timing is flexible with my lifestyle approach. I usually schedule once baby arrives—text me when you’re settled, and we’ll book within the first few weeks. Since I don’t do heavily posed setups, it’s not essential baby be super young—up to you!

That first 1-4 weeks captures that cozy newborn stage, perfect for a 1-hour session yielding 30-40 edited images of real moments—baby in your arms, on the couch, or snuggled on a bed.

Preparing Your Baby for the Session

You’ll get a detailed guide with outfit tips, a day-before checklist, and more! On session day, try keeping baby awake for 1-2 hours before I arrive. This helps them sleep deeply, making it easier to capture natural shots without disturbance.

Feed baby right before we start for a full tummy. Dress them in a loose diaper and simple onesie—or just a swaddle—for no skin marks and that relaxed look I love.

Newborn Lifestyle Session Guide Environment

Choose between an in-home session or my studio—both designed for lifestyle photography per this newborn lifestyle session guide. I keep it warm (around 80 degrees) for baby’s comfort, whether we’re using your space or my setup with a bed and couch.

I bring wraps, headbands, and tiny outfits (all sanitized), focusing on safety while capturing those real, unposed moments you’ll treasure.

Family Shots and Sibling Photos

My 1-hour sessions include solo baby shots, all of you together, and individuals with parents or siblings if applicable—grandparents too if desired! I start with family photos when everyone’s fresh, keeping it natural and fun.

I’ve got tricks to make it positive for toddlers, ensuring a smooth experience despite baby’s need for extra soothing or feeding time.

I can’t wait to meet your little one and deliver a gallery of 30-40 images your family will cherish forever!

You can also check out our blog for tips for the most natural family photography sessions!
If you’re looking for a studio in the Richmond area for your newborn, family, maternity or other type of session, check out The Studio on Broad!