I would describe the genre of photography that I fall into as lifestyle photography. This doesn’t mean that I don’t take portraits or documentary images, but by and large my style is ‘lifestyle’.

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What is Lifestyle photography?

Lifestyle photography is defined as “a genre of photography that mainly aims to capture portraits of people in situations, real-life events or milestones in an artistic manner and the art of the everyday.”

There are many variations and definitions to lifestyle photography, and my approach to lifestyle photography may be quite different than another photographer. I think of lifestyle photography falling between portrait photography and documentary photography.

I consider portrait photography to be highly posed with strict directions to the subject from the photographer. Documentary photography is more of a fly on the wall approach, letting activities unfold organically without interjection from the photographer.

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My approach to lifestyle photography PRIOR to your session

I like to take photos of my subjects interacting with each other and their environment, and often doing a movement or activity. For sessions with my clients, this includes a conversation and tips about what to wear for your session. This includes choosing a photography location which holds meaning for the family or one where there is an activity to do or area to explore and experience.

My approach to lifestyle photography DURING your session

At your session I will guide you and your family into locations and recommend activities to maximize the light and setting to create a lovely photograph. I’ll give you prompts that garner laughter, natural smiles, and recommend movements such as running and twirling to creating natural moments that could happen in everyday life. But, without the prompts and my guidance we wouldn’t be able to create the many moments that fill your full photo gallery during our one hour together.

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My Lifestyle Approach, In Summary

1. I’ll choose the best area at our location or your home to help control the light to create professional images.

2. We’ll work together to choose clothes true to your natural everyday style, which you may already have in your closet!

3. I’ll suggest games and situations that create natural interactions between your family and your environment, then photograph the magic that happens.

4. The images are true to life as I’m photographing activities that would ordinarily happen, even thought they’re done in the constructs of a photo session.

5. I don’t ask you to pose a certain way, bend your leg, smile, and tilt your head. I encourage natural joy-filled activities.