What is Lifestyle Photography?

I’m actually surprised how rarely I get asked this question! I think it’s a genuinely fantastic question that surely people wonder (and maybe eventually Google).

There are a lot of different types of photography, and different photographers may define them differently. For the sake of simplicity, I’m just going to tell you about a few styles that are seen in the family and newborn photography realm. I’m also going to define them the way I view them.

1) There are heavily posed, portrait photographers. This is a more traditional style. Most photos will feature all members of the family looking (and probably smiling) at the camera, all faces in focus. A lot of these photographers operate out of studios and many use artificial lighting for a perfectly lit subject. When it comes to newborns, they will likely be asleep, naked or dressed in intricate wraps or costumes, posed in a very specific way, laying on a bean bag prop. Like anything, this is a style. Some people prefer it and others do not.

2) There are documentary style photographers. This is more of a fly-on-the wall approach. The photographer is unlikely to influence the shot in any way. I would consider this the truest photo but also the least perfect. It’s beautiful in its own way, but once again, not for everyone or every situation.

3) There are lifestyle photographers (me!). Lifestyle photographers photograph authentic moments that are oftentimes influenced or prompted by the photographer. For instance, the photographer may ask you to stand in a certain area with ideal lighting. The photographer may suggest a game you can play with your children that encourages them to laugh and have fun in photos. The photographer may suggest that a newborn mother lift her baby up for a kiss. These photographed moments may be somewhat staged (the amount of staging required varies by situation), but the joy and love captured are very real. It’s perhaps a more glamorized version of everyday life.

My goal in lifestyle photography is to photograph the love between family members. Not everyone feels comfortable in front of the camera, but the right lifestyle photographer will be able to bring about natural moments that you will cherish for a lifetime.

I also want to point out that as a lifestyle photographer…I absolutely do also take photos of everyone looking at the camera and smiling! I’m not sure you can count this under “lifestyle”, but well..my clients tend to want that shot as well. I will act silly to get your kids’ attention (and smiles!) for these shots, regardless of what “style of photography” it falls under.

Fall Family Photos: Style Guide

If you’ve already scheduled your fall family photos, you’re probably starting to wonder what you should wear! (And if you haven’t scheduled a session yet…reach out! There aren’t many openings left…) Scroll down to view my best tips as well as some inspirations from other families!

1.) What should I (mom) wear for family photos?

You (mom) should pick your outfit first! (Not a typo!) I want you to pick your outfit before you pick what your kids will wear. Shop for something you love and feel great in. Personally, I’m a fan of dresses. They feel romantic and special to me. A flattering dress can be just the thing to boost your confidence. But, if you’re not a fan of dresses, that’s fine too! Wear whatever makes you feel confident and comfortable.

2.) What colors are best for family photos?

I love lightly colored neutrals year-round! If you’re feeling colorful, that’s awesome too! Consider avoiding red, as it can cause color-cast issues (giving your little daughter a red glow on her face from your shirt). And if you’ve selected a very green location, a green dress may cause you to blend into the background a bit too much. I recommend avoiding extremely bright colors and big logos as well.

3.) Should my family match?

I always vote for coordination rather than matching. Pick a color scheme and mix in prints and textures to make things interesting. Gone are the days of everyone wearing jeans and a white shirt! (Phew!)

4.) What else should I consider?

Let’s talk about undergarments! If you’re worried about bra straps peaking out, pick a different bra or utilize fashion tape to keep everything in place. If you’re worried about your underwear being visible through your skirt or dress, try a different pair of underwear or purchase a slip to wear underneath. And if the dress you want to wear requires adjusting to keep everything in place…I’d recommend picking something else entirely. It’s not worth the stress/worry!

5.) Where should I shop?

I’m always here for supporting local boutiques! If you’re from Pittsburgh, check out No. 14 Boutique in Lawrenceville (or online!). I’m also a big fan of Target and their affordable options that you can buy to try on and return what doesn’t fit. When it comes to online shopping, Baltic Born, Jessa Kae, Hillhouse, Lulus, and Amazon are some of my favorites.

Some Baltic Born Picks:

(Baltic Born dresses are oftentimes bump-friendly!)

Some Jessa Kae Picks:

(Jessa Kae offers inclusive sizing as well as mini-me pairings)

What about my kids?

You probably already spend so much time shopping for your kids, that this part is easy (and fun!). And for that reason, I’m not going to spend much time on it! Just dress your kids appropriately for the weather (utilizing layers as needed) and make sure the outfit fits before your session day. If your kids tends to get messy (or wrinkley) in the car, plan to arrive early and change their clothes in the car before the session. And always bring a back-up outfit just in case…

What about my husband?

Your husband’s attire should be similar to yours in formality. If you’re wearing something dressy, have your husband dress up as well! And if you’re going casual, dress the whole fam causally! Husbands typically wear sweaters, polos, or dress shirts. And when you’re planning out his outfit…don’t forget about socks and shoes!

Need a little more help?

I always invite my clients to text me if they’d like additional guidance! You’re welcome to send me pictures and ask me questions. And if you’re looking for full-service styling, check out Liz from Rise Styling!

What Exactly is an Extended Family Session?

The majority of my photo sessions are immediate family members only. Basically…parents and their kids! Once we start adding in grandparents, aunts/uncles, or other family members who live in a different household, I define that as an extended family session.

Extended family photo sessions tend to be larger, last longer, and include a longer must-have shot list. They tend to require more prep-work, more shooting time, and more editing. For that reason, they cost more! When you inquire about an extended family photo session, I’ll ask you who will be in attendance before giving you a session price.

Prior to your extended family photo session, I’ll send a questionnaire for you to fill out so I can learn everyone’s name, relation to each other, and age (kids only). I’ll also ask you for a list of people groupings/combinations you’d like me to photograph. This all helps me to prepare! Then I can arrive to your session with a plan. You can relax, and I’ll run the show!