Lifestyle Newborn Sessions with Mackenzie Maeder Chicagoland Photographer

I often am asked if I offer newborn sessions. I sure do! But my approach is a little different than the newborn photos you may see popping up all over social media. Read through below to find out more!

No Babies in Baskets

There is a very popular style out there right now for newborn photos. You’ve probably seen them. These are highly stylized shots of babies in baskets and buckets or laying in mini beds. There is usually a theme to help tell the story of when your baby was born or who you think they might be.

This is not my style at all. I am definitely not a fan and that is OKAY. Not every style of photography is for everyone! So while I love working with newborns I will never offer this type of session. If this is the type of newborn session you are interested in, there are so many options out there!

And if this is the style you are going for, make sure to do your research and find a professional. This type of photography is heavily photoshopped and requires training for the poses. You want to make sure that the photographer you have hired knows how to safely photograph your baby.

What does a lifestyle newborn session mean?

This is what I call the newborn sessions I offer. Typically these are done within the first few weeks of the baby being born so they are sleepier. Though I have done them several weeks after being born so if you feeling a little behind, no worries! We usually do these in home or in your backyard. Basically I spend a lot of time focusing on your new relationship! There is lots of cuddling together as a family and each parent gets one on one time with the newest addition. I love to get nurses shots so you can remember what their room looked like when they first came home. I do a lot of photos of them swaddled and capture all those little details like their tiny nose, ears, and toes for you to look back on. Its a mix of documenting moments as a new family as well as documenting your little one so you always have these photos to remember how small they were!

Tips for a newborn session

-I usually like to shoot these earlier in the day so there is more light streaming in through your windows. Of course, let me know what their general schedule is and if we need to adjust timing based off when you have been feeding them or when they seem to be the sleepiest, thats okay!

-Its also okay to take breaks if needed :) If your baby needs to be fed or changed, do not stress! I am no hurry and want to make sure your little one is as happy as they can be during your shoot.

-Try to keep your home warm so it is cozy. That might make it a little too toasty for you but helps your baby stay calm when they aren’t chilly. Especially if you plan to change outfits several times!

-Have a sound machine or speaker for music on hand. I have found that having one playing helps keep your baby happy too!

What should we wear for our session?

This one really applies to any session, but wear something your are comfortable in and wear something that makes you feel good! Even though you are getting professional photos taken, never wear something you wouldn’t wear out. If the outfit makes you uncomfortable it might show in photos. And I want both parents to feel confident and their best!

Neutrals are always a good idea or wearing colors that compliment each other. A pattern is totally fine but I wouldn’t put everyone in a pattern.

What should our baby wear?

Truthfully, whatever you want them to! I still think keeping them comfy applies but it is almost important to note that they may be swaddled for a good chunk of photos and you may not see their outfits. But feel free to have them coordinate with you and to have multiple outfits!