Posing in Lifestyle Photography
When people think of lifestyle photography they don't often also think about posing. There is this belief in the photography community that lifestyle is completely candid or "in-between moments" and there is no posing involved. That is far from the truth and my sessions involve a lot of direction and posing in a way that feels more natural and comfortable instead of stiff and awkward. I am going to show you my personal favorite poses to do with families during my sessions.
Together
I always begin my sessions with the family together so this is where I'll begin my list. I love getting the entire family comfortable on the bed or couch and capturing their interactions with baby. I guide each family to snuggle in and look at baby and each other and just soak on their little features. Getting a family shot is of utmost importance to me as they are the photos I treasure most of my own family.
Mom alone with baby
I personally love seeing how each mom holds and snuggles their new baby. I instruct dad to hand baby to mom and tell mom to "just hold them as they normally do." Each is a little different and it involves much bouncing, rocking, and kissing of their little cheeks. It amazes me how moms have this natural instinct to comfort their babies and they know exactly what they need.
Dad alone with baby
Baby always looks so tiny in dad's arms. I like to take advantage of this and pose them in ways that shows this adorable size difference. I have dad sit on the edge of the bed or couch and I sit baby on his arm and have him put his other arm on their chest and support their head under their chin. There is so much interaction from baby in this pose and they sometimes even give yawns and smiles
Baby alone
Finally, I like to get a few shots of baby alone with they are calm and okay being a way from mom and dad for a few moments. To help them feel safe and secure I will swaddle them. From there I like to get a few simple portraits. I know it seems "basic" but their look and features change so much during those first few weeks I like to capture all of the details of their newborn face before its gone and parents struggle to recall what their baby looked life in those early days.
Conclusion
There are many different varieties to each pose and I love seeing how each baby and family interact with one another. Everyone has their favorite poses and photos from each gallery and I hope you enjoyed seeing what my personal favorites are from the photographer's perspective.
