If you’re expecting a baby (or have just welcomed one — congratulations!), you might be thinking about booking a newborn photography session. But then comes the big question: should you choose a studio session or a lifestyle session at home?
Both options are beautiful in their own way — and the good news is, there’s no wrong choice. It simply comes down to the style of images you’re drawn to and what feels easiest for your family during those early days.
As a Canberra newborn photographer, I offer both studio and in-home lifestyle newborn photography sessions. In this post, I’ll help you decide which option might be the best fit for you and your family.
What is a Studio Newborn Session?
Studio sessions take place in my cosy, light-filled in-home studio here in Canberra. These sessions are styled in a simple, minimal way, focusing on soft tones and a calm, relaxed atmosphere.
Your baby will be gently wrapped and guided into natural, comfortable positions using soft, neutral fabrics. Everything is kept clean and minimal, allowing your baby’s tiny details and features to truly stand out.
You don’t need to bring anything except your baby — I provide all the wraps, blankets, and carefully chosen pieces needed to create a soft, timeless look.
These sessions are perfect if you love that classic, clean style with soft tones and a more polished finish. It’s also the easiest option for many families, as there’s no need to prepare your home — you can simply arrive, relax, and let me take care of everything.
What is a Lifestyle Newborn Session?
Lifestyle sessions are held in the comfort of your home and are more natural and unposed. These sessions are all about capturing real-life moments: snuggles on the bed, baby in the crib, sweet family interactions, and the little details that make your home yours.
I’ll guide you gently so everything looks beautiful, but the vibe is very relaxed and not too “posed.” These photos tell the story of your life right now — your new baby, your cozy space, and all the love in the room.
If you love the idea of casual, warm, and authentic photos with a storytelling feel, a lifestyle session might be just what you’re looking for.
What’s the Main Difference?
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you see the difference at a glance:
| Studio Session | Lifestyle Session | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | My in-home studio | Your home |
| Look & Feel | Clean, styled, posed | Natural, relaxed, real-life moments |
| Lighting | Soft natural light in the studio | Natural light in your home |
| Props & Wraps | All provided | No props — just your home and your love |
| Focus | Mostly baby-focused | Baby + family + home details |
| Prep Needed | None! Just bring baby | Light tidying of a few spaces is helpful |
| Best For | Timeless baby portraits | Telling the story of your new family life |
How Do I Choose?
Here are a few questions to help you decide:
- Do you love simple, styled photos of baby all curled up and peacefully posed? → Go with a studio session.
- Want to include your home, your older kids, or your dog in a natural, relaxed way? → Lifestyle might be your style.
- Don’t feel like prepping your house or worrying about lighting and space? → Studio is easier.
- Love the idea of documenting this chapter in your own home, exactly as it is? → Lifestyle is a great fit.
Still unsure? That’s totally normal! I’m always happy to chat with you and help you decide. Some families even book both — studio for those sleepy baby-only shots, and lifestyle later on for more family moments.
No matter which option you choose, you’ll walk away with beautiful, meaningful images of this special time in your life. Newborn days go by so fast, and these photos are a way to freeze those tiny details before they’re gone.
Whether you’re drawn to the calm and cozy feel of the studio, or the warm and natural vibe of an at-home lifestyle session, I’d love to help you capture it all.
Got questions or want to book a session? Click here to send me a message — I can’t wait to hear from you!
Jessica Kennedy is a professional photographer specialising in newborn, baby, and maternity photography. Based in Canberra, ACT, Jessica Kennedy Photography provides studio and in-home sessions for families across Canberra, including Gungahlin, Franklin, Belconnen, Tuggeranong, Woden Valley, and North Canberra, as well as nearby areas such as Queanbeyan, Yass, and Googong.
