Zuza M Photography | Crystal Lake Family Photographer

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Should I have a newborn session at home | Crystal Lake Newborn Photographer

Crystal Lake Newborn Photographer

When trying to decide on which photographer to hire for your brand new baby’s newborn session, there are a few things you should consider.

Do you want a posed baby session or more natural one? Do you want to go to a studio or have it at your home? How soon are you able to have a photo session?

For the most part (but not always) a posed baby sessions happen at a studio. Often photographer will use props like baskets, wraps, cute outfits, hats and other things to adorn the baby or to create a set up to place the baby in. The newborn needs to be no more than 14 days young, because they are more bendy then and still in that “sleepy” phase, so it’s easier to pose them.

As a documentary family photographer I am a proponent of an in-home newborn sessions. Whether documentary, lifestyle or somewhere in between, I always focus on the connection between the parents and the baby and the siblings if there are any. It’s much more natural and relaxed.

During lifestyle newborn session there is some direction going on, mostly to set up the shots, but the baby isn’t posed in any unnatural way. Because of that, you can have your newborn session up to a month or so after birth. The baby will be more awake and alert the longer you wait. And that is also ok.

With an in-home newborn session you can include photos of your baby’s nursery and other spaces in your own home. It is a nice touch that would be appreciated even more as time goes by and things shift and change.

The documenatrian in me always looks to capture a piece of your current reality. The photos that show how your life looks like at the moment are so meaningful. One day your much bigger child will ask you how life was when they were little and you will be able to just show them.

If you have pets, they can be included in your in-home newborn session as well. They are part of the family too and I am all for capturing them interacting with the baby. How fun!

During my newborn sessions I follow the mood of the baby. I do not force anything, I do not use props or pose in unnatural way. The sessions just flow gently and are stress free.

At Home Newborn Session

If you are looking for a newborn photographer in Crystal Lake, Illinois area, contact me for more information or to book your session. I would love to document your family.

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Zuzanna Mendez is a published portrait and documentary family photographer based in Crystal Lake, Illinois. She’s been photographing families all around the world for over 15 years. Her photos are described as artistic, genuine and timeless.