Should I Do My Newborn Photography Session Indoors or Outdoors?

This is such a great question! Newborn photoshoots are so precious. When preparing to capture photos to cherish this moment forever, you'll face various decisions that require careful planning in advance.

Firstly, I would like to answer this by saying this choice is completely up to you and your family!

I am an outdoor photographer who specializes in natural light, using the stunning landscapes of Vancouver Island as my primary studio. However, I also believe that there are many benefits to capturing your newborns first moments in your home. Explore beautiful, connective images in "E & T's In-Home Newborn Session" gallery and read about the pros of choosing to have your newborn session outdoors and indoors.

Family with newborn on bed in home Photoshoot Vancouver Island Photography by Photographer "Soulfull Photographs"

Newborn looking at toddler brother professional Vancouver Island Photography by Photographer "Soulfull Photographs"

Newborn snuggling with family lifestyle Photoshoot Vancouver Island Photography by Photographer "Soulfull Photographs"

Newborn in moms arms lifestyle Photoshoot Vancouver Island Photography by Photographer "Soulfull Photographs"

What are the Pros of an Outdoor Newborn Session?

Natural Light/ Golden Hour: Outdoor locations scheduled for golden hour provide beautiful, soft natural light that can enhance the photos, creating a gentle and flattering atmosphere. This is great for newborns as newborns do not yet have bedtimes!
Scenic Backdrops: Outdoor locations provide a gorgeous, natural studio showcasing beautiful backgrounds such as oceans, mountains and forests (especially on our lovely Vancouver Island).
Variety: Outdoor sessions offer a variety of settings depending on the location you choose, allowing for more diversity in your images.
Connection to Nature: Growing up on Vancouver Island I believe that being outdoors can create a sense of tranquility and connection to nature, which can contribute to a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for both your newborn and your family.
Weather and Fresh Air: Weather permitting, outdoor sessions provide the opportunity for everyone in your party to feel refreshed and experience fresh air.
Freedom of Movement: Outdoor settings allow for more freedom of movement and exploration, which can be particularly beneficial when photographing siblings or family members with the newborn.
No Clean Up: Typically there involves some clean up when preparing for an indoor, newborn session. It can be better for some families to get out of the house and enjoy a fresh space in nature together without spending countless hours preparing the space!

What are the Pros of an Indoor Newborn Session?

Comfort: Leaving your home postpartum can be challenging for some families. Being in the comfort of your home for those first few weeks might be best for you! This can help newborns and families can feel relaxed and at ease during the session
Meaningful: Your home is the place where your newborn spent the first part of their life. It may one day even be called their "childhood home". Taking photos in this area can showcase your favourite meaningful locations within your home.
Controlled Environment: Indoor sessions offer control over temperature, and other environmental factors, ensuring a comfortable and predictable setting for the newborn.
Privacy: In-home photoshoots allow for family privacy, reducing potential distractions and creating a more intimate setting for the family.
Everything is already there: You need to change your newborn's diaper? Your toddler needs a snack? Being at home means you already have everything you need so you don't need to worry about packing or forgetting anything.
Year-Round Availability: Unlike outdoor sessions, indoor photography can be conducted year-round with a newborn, regardless of weather conditions or seasonal changes.
Personalized Items: In your home you likely have meaningful items, such as nursery décor, heirloom blankets, or sentimental props, we can incorporate these items into the photos without having to pack them and the set them back up into the home after your session.

What is a Lifestyle Newborn Session?

A lifestyle newborn session is a type of photography session that captures natural and candid moments of newborns and their families in a familiar or meaningful environment. This is frequently their home. However, it doesn't have to be! When looking for a location for your photoshoot, I first always recommend choosing a place that is significant or meaningful to you and your family. This may be your home or it might be your favourite family beach, picnic spot or the place where it all started!

Unlike traditional posed newborn sessions that often take place in a studio with controlled setups and props, lifestyle sessions aim to document real-life moments and interactions between family. My biggest goal is to make you feel comfortable and capture authentic moments full of connection and love.