Why to Consider and How to Plan Your NJ Outdoor Newborn Photo Session

Today, families have many options when it comes to booking a newborn photo session.  There are so many talented newborn photographers in New Jersey. It can be confusing choosing the right photographer for YOUR family. If you’re looking for perfectly posed shots of your baby in baskets or bowls, I’m not the photographer for you. But, if you’re looking for life-inspired images that portray the essence of your baby and family as a whole, I may be your girl. As a Westfield, NJ Lifestyle Newborn and Family Photographer, I’m going to share some great reasons to consider a NJ outdoor newborn photo session, along with answers to common questions.

A Lifestyle Newborn Session Captures Your Family’s Essence

A NJ outdoor newborn photo session allows for a more personal and intimate session that truly reflects your family’s essence and what you mean to each other.

Unlike traditional posed newborn photography, which often involves props and unnatural poses, Lifestyle Newborn Photography focuses on capturing meaningful moments that portray a family’s relationships. It’s about more that creating a beautiful image of how you and your baby look. As your baby photographer, I aim to capture what it FEELS LIKE like when you cradle your newborn in your arms. Or the tender way your toddler gently touches his baby brother’s toes.

During my sessions, I provide a lot of guidance and direction. You’ll get to hold and snuggle your baby. Any posing that takes place is “baby led”, meaning that your baby will only be placed in natural and safe positions.

Having your newborn baby’s photos taken outdoors in your own backyard can also make your images more meaningful because it incorporates your real-life surroundings.

When Should I Schedule A Lifestyle Newborn Photo Session?

Unlike with more traditional newborn portraiture, where photographers often recommend scheduling sessions within the first 10-14 days of birth, outdoor newborn sessions can be scheduled anytime within the first month of birth and even up to three months or more.

Does My Baby Need to Be Asleep During the Session?

No! While many traditional newborn photographers aim to capture beautiful sleeping shots of the baby, your baby can be awake or asleep during your outdoor newborn session with me. Since my Newborn Sessions are longer than family sessions to allow for feeding breaks, I often capture both awake and sleeping shots. This gives your gallery a nice variety from which to choose. And, as much as I love how sweet and beautiful sleeping baby shots are, there’s nothing quite like the connection you feel when looking at a photo of your baby gazing up at you.

What Should We Wear?

Comfort is key when choosing clothing for any Family Photo Session, and Newborn Sessions in particular. I recommend moms choose an outfit that they feel beautiful in and that isn’t too formal or fitted. A pretty flowing tunic over jeans works well after having a baby. I also love the look of a long dress which adds movement and romance to your images. Dads should be comfortable too.  I recommend dressing in neutral colors. Consider a palette that will compliment or blend with your home decor. Avoid very dark colors like black or dark navy, which easily show lint and pet hair. Dress your baby in a well-fitting onesie and keep a few extra outfits on hand. Be sure to have swaddling and baby blankets or wraps on hand. 

Get more Tips on What to Wear for Summer Outdoor Newborn Photos and Sign Up for my Free Wardrobe Inspire Guide.

Still unsure what to wear? Don’t worry! When you BOOK your Newborn Session, I provide complimentary clothing suggestions during your Pre-Session Consult. You can also check out some inspiration on my Pinterest board here!