When we think about a portrait session, we often limit ourselves to thinking that these need to be done at a pretty outdoor location or in front of a studio backdrop. These are the standard options. Sure, in many cases they are the best option, but maybe there is another possibility. Have you ever considered an in home lifestyle session? This past winter, I went to Rachelle’s home to photograph her and her babies. Although, they aren’t babies anymore and are growing so fast! I wanted to capture them doing things that they do at home and to steal moments of snuggling and laughter. My goal wasn’t to get a cheesy shot, rather to capture images that will make a great album. I was not trying to get the camera aware photo to hang on the mantle. These images would be so sweet framed and displayed, most of all I want you to make yourself a book that you will pull out over the years to remember those times together doing what you love together when the world isn’t looking and in your space.
In home sessions are not a good fit for everyone. They are definitely an option, especially relevant in the colder winter months. It is important that you decide if this is right for you before opting for an in home lifestyle session.
Is an in home lifestyle session right for me?
- Are you able to somewhat forget about the camera during a session? I know it is hard to completely ignore me and pretend I’m not there (especially while I’m talking to you), but are you someone who is always staring at the camera lens smiling or can you interact with your children and be yourself with me there?
- Do you have good light in your home? It’s important to get good natural light. Some homes are very dark. This typically happens to home surrounded by trees or other buildings blocking lights from filling your home. If you usually need to have lights on, odds are you do not have good light.
- Do you value the organic and imperfect moments of real life? If you can embrace the chaos of life and see the beauty in it, these might be the perfect sessions for you. While I do offer some suggestions and guidance during the session, I ultimately want to capture whatever naturally happens. So it is very go with the flow.
Here is another in home session I did last year if you want to see more. I really love these types of sessions. I hope to have one for my family some day. These are the types of photos that I think photographers or parents who want to learn photography want to capture. We want to be able to document our every day in a more beautiful way. Email me if these are sessions that speak to your heart and something you would like to have captured for your family. I would love to capture your in home lifestyle session.