Lifestyle newborn sessions are always a joy, but there’s something particularly special about photographing a family in their own home. Recently, I had the privilege of capturing a beautiful, lively family of four in their DC row home, and it was a session full of love, laughter, and just the right amount of chaos.
A Family of Four (and More!)
This family was brimming with love, not just for each other, but also for their dearly loved au pair who had been with them since their 2-year-old daughter was just 8 months old. With her return to Brazil approaching, it was important to include her in this newborn session. She had been such an integral part of their lives, and capturing these moments with her in the frame was a beautiful way to honor that connection.
The Perfect Setting: A Surprisingly Spacious DC Row Home
DC row homes are known for their charm, but they’re not always known for their space. This home, however, was a delightful surprise. It was spacious, well-lit, and offered the perfect backdrop for our session. The natural light pouring through the windows created a warm, inviting atmosphere that complemented the love and joy radiating from this family.
Big Sister’s Silliness and Gorgeous Curls
Every newborn session has its share of unpredictability, and in this case, it came in the form of a very energetic 2-year-old big sister. She kept us all on our toes with her playful antics and infectious energy. Her curls bounced as she darted around the room, bringing an extra dose of joy to the session. Her silliness added a delightful layer of spontaneity to the photos, perfectly capturing the vibrant spirit of childhood.
Capturing the Beautiful Chaos
Mom’s vision for this session was clear: she wanted to capture the beautiful chaos that defines their life at home. With a newborn and a toddler, there’s no shortage of movement, noise, and love, and that’s exactly what we set out to capture. We focused on candid moments—the big sister peeking at her baby brother, mom and dad sharing a quiet moment amidst the busyness, and the au pair holding the baby with a tender expression that spoke volumes.
Of course, we also made time for that one classic looking-at-the-camera shot, a moment of calm in an otherwise wonderfully chaotic session.
The Final Touch: Two Golden Retrievers
No family session would be complete without including all the members of the household, and in this case, that meant the two golden retrievers who had been eagerly waiting their turn. These crazy pups brought an extra layer of fun to the session, and their inclusion in the final family photo was the perfect way to wrap up our time together.
Why I Love Lifestyle Newborn Sessions
This DC lifestyle newborn photography session reminds me why I love lifestyle photography so much. It’s about more than just capturing a beautiful image; it’s about capturing the essence of a family in their natural environment. It’s about the laughter, the mess, the quiet moments, and the connections that make a house a home.
If you’re thinking about scheduling a lifestyle newborn session, know that it’s okay if your home isn’t “picture perfect.” The real beauty lies in the authenticity of your family’s life, and that’s what I’m here to capture. Whether it’s the playful antics of a toddler, the calmness of a newborn’s nap, or the love of a family member who’s been by your side, these are the moments that make your story unique.
Thanks for reading about this special session. I look forward to capturing the beautiful chaos in your home too!
Liz Viernes Photography is based near Brookville, MD, and specializes in maternity, fresh 48, posed and lifestyle newborns and first year milestone portraits.
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