Bringing a newborn into the world is one of the most tender, fleeting seasons of life. And capturing those first weeks through photography is something many families treasure forever. But if you’ve started researching newborn photography, you’ve probably already noticed there are two very different approaches: studio newborn photography and lifestyle newborn photography.
Both are beautiful. Both capture your baby in a way you’ll want to look back on for decades. But they feel very different—not just in the images, but in the entire experience.
Some families love the polished, styled portraits created in a studio. Others feel more drawn to the cozy, candid feel of a session at home. This post will walk you through both styles so you can decide what feels right for your family.
What Is Studio Newborn Photography?
Studio newborn sessions are held in my Saint Paul photography studio, where everything is carefully prepared before you even arrive.
Location & Setup
The studio is warmed to keep baby comfortable, and everything from props to wraps to backdrops is set up and ready to go. Parents can settle in and relax while I handle the details.
Style
The look is posed, polished, and artistic. Baby is the star of the session—often swaddled, curled into cozy poses, or placed against dreamy, textured backdrops.
Session Flow
A studio session usually moves at a slower pace. Babies need feeding, soothing, and breaks, and that’s all part of the rhythm. Parents often love that they can sit back, sip coffee, and simply enjoy watching their baby while I gently guide the posing.
Safety
As a photographer with over two decades of experience, newborn safety is always my first priority. Every pose is done with baby’s comfort in mind—never forced.
Best for Families Who:
- Want classic, styled portraits with an artistic feel
- Prefer to have everything provided and ready in the studio
- Enjoy the idea of leaving the house for a set experience
- Like a structured session where siblings and parents are included in more formal portraits
If you’d like to see session details and investment, you can visit my newborn photography pricing page.
What Is Lifestyle Newborn Photography?
Lifestyle newborn sessions take place in your own home, where your family feels most comfortable.
Location & Setup
I use natural light and your everyday surroundings—nursery, bedroom, or even the living room couch—to tell the story of your baby’s first days.
Style
The feel is candid, cozy, and documentary-style. I’ll guide you lightly, but the focus is on capturing your family as you are: snuggling, feeding, rocking baby to sleep, or siblings meeting their new brother or sister.
Session Flow
Lifestyle sessions are guided but relaxed. Breaks for feeding, diaper changes, or calming baby are part of the story. These moments aren’t interruptions—they’re often the most meaningful photographs.
Best for Families Who:
- Want a “day in the life” feeling in their images
- Prefer natural, less posed photos
- Want to include pets or siblings in their familiar home environment
- Feel most comfortable staying home with baby in those early weeks
Visual Style Comparison
- Studio: Consistent, clean, soft light with curated props and dreamy backdrops. Editing is often more refined and polished.
- Lifestyle: Unique to your home, with warm, organic tones. The editing tends to feel lighter and natural, enhancing the real environment.
One isn’t better than the other—it’s about whether you want styled artistry or storytelling authenticity.
Timing & Logistics
Timing plays a big role in newborn photography style:
- Studio sessions are typically scheduled 7–14 days after birth, when babies are sleepiest and naturally curl into poses.
- Lifestyle sessions can be done up to 4–6 weeks after birth, since they don’t rely on sleepy poses. Baby can be awake or asleep—both tell the story beautifully.
Session lengths also differ. Studio sessions often run longer due to posing and soothing, while lifestyle sessions tend to be shorter, depending on baby’s mood.
Client Story
One family recently shared how much they appreciated coming into the studio: “We were so tired, and it felt amazing to just walk into a space where everything was ready. The studio was cozy, Giliane handled everything, and we left with timeless portraits we’ll treasure forever.”
Another family told me their lifestyle session was the perfect fit: “Our toddler felt right at home. Having photos of us reading books in the nursery and cuddling on the couch means so much. It felt like our real life, captured beautifully.”
Still Can’t Decide?
Here are a few reflection questions to help you choose:
- Do you want stylized portraits or real-life moments?
- Do you feel comfortable leaving the house in the early newborn days?
- Are there sentimental spaces in your home you’d love captured?
- Do you love the idea of soft props and styled imagery?
Some families even choose a hybrid path—starting with a lifestyle newborn session, then coming back into the studio later for milestone portraits.
Recap: Quick-Glance Comparison
| Feature | Studio | Lifestyle |
|---|---|---|
| Location | In my Saint Paul studio | In your home |
| Style | Posed, artistic | Candid, documentary |
| Props/Wraps | All provided | Minimal or your own |
| Focus | Baby-centered | Family-centered |
| Timeline | 7–14 days old | Up to 4–6 weeks |
| Best For | Polished portraits | Natural storytelling |
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose a studio newborn session or a lifestyle newborn session, you’ll walk away with photographs that celebrate this fleeting season of life. Both approaches are designed to honor your baby and your family—just in different ways.
What matters most is finding the style that feels comfortable and authentic to you. And if you’re still unsure, I’m always here to talk through your vision and help guide you.
Ready to begin planning? Explore my newborn photography pricing or contact me here to reserve your session.
