Should I book an In-Home or Studio Newborn session?
Did you know that in addition to in home newborn sessions, that I now offer studio newborn sessions? There are so many things to think about and prepare for when you are having a baby. Documenting this wonderful milestone, and capturing the beauty of your new little one. This can be another daunting task to add to the overwhelming number of things you need to do. So I’m here to help. I will guide you, and together we will decide which option is best for your family.
But today’s question is, should you do an in-home or newborn studio session? When I first started my business I did not have a studio space, or studio lighting and backdrops. Over the years I’ve been able to compile a list of the reasons clients prefer the different types of sessions. Hopefully this will answer your questions, and give you a little insight as to what to expect at your session.
Do you live in a small home or apartment?
That doesn’t matter. I just need a tiny space to set up, and good window natural light. And I bring off camera flash lighting, just incase there is minimal natural light. Some new parents just aren’t comfortable with people coming into their home, especially with Covid.
Do you worry about taking your new baby out in public?
Some parents are comfortable going out with a 1-2 week old baby, while others can’t wait to get out of the house. Some babies are a little higher risk than others. There’s no judgement, just what you’re more comfortable with. My studio is impeccably clean, and all of the clothing, wraps, and props are properly cleaned and sterilized between clients. I am up-to-date on my immunizations and flu-shot and take every precaution when working with your precious new baby. So whether you come to my studio, or I come to your home, your baby will be in safe surroundings and safe hands.
Are there older siblings?
Many of my clients have children between 18 months and 3 years old. There’s no guarantee they will cooperate for photos, so we just need to go in with a great attitude and hope for the best (and maybe have a few bribes up our sleeves).
Is big brother or sister shy and fearful of strangers? If so, they’ll probably feel more comfortable in his/her own home. Being able to watch as the photographer sets up and interacts with his parents, and new baby will help him/her get comfortable.
Is big sister or brother more active and maybe a tiny bit hard to control? They might actually do better in the studio. New surroundings and a new person (the photographer) can help focus some of his/her energy on the task at hand. Family and sibling photos at done at the beginning of the session. Then having one parent or family member/friend take the kids to a park, or back home while the other parent stays for the newborn’s session.. A home session may work well also.
Are there several big sisters and brothers? I would definitely suggest a home session. Once you are out-numbered by your children, it’s definitely easier to manage them at home.
Do you prefer the more casual, lifestyle family and newborn photos?
Some clients actually don’t really care for the posed newborn photos. If you want photos of the baby in the new nursery, or family photos on your bed, or with your family pet, obviously you are going to want a home session. It’s easy to create studio-quality newborn and family portraits in your home, but kinda hard to do the opposite.
How much time do you have?
In-home sessions typically take 3 hours. This is including the time it takes me to bring all of my equipment in and set it up, and then breaking it down and taking it back out. Newborn Studio sessions are usually 2 hours.
Are you willing to pay for the convenience of your photographer coming to your home?
In-home sessions are going to be more expensive than studio sessions. Your photographer needs to plan and gather all of the appropriate props, pack up all of her equipment, travel to your home, set up the equipment, break down and pack up the equipment again, travel back, and then unload the equipment and props again. She also needs to be skilled in how to handle different lighting scenarios and be able to work around other obstacles a studio photographer does not encounter.
Those are the main questions I think you need to consider when making your decision. If you were on the fence trying to decide which type of session to choose, I hope this helped. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact me here.
Congratulations on your new little one! Whichever session you choose , I know you will love your photos forever! Contact me today, to book your newborn session. I can’t wait to meet you, and your family!
Can you guess which images were shot in-home or are in my Lansdale studio newborn session space?