What are in-home photography sessions like? An East Tennessee Photographer

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Why I love them.

They do not depend on weather! Usually we can snap some shots both outdoors and indoors. Or do the entire session indoors if the weather is not having it. All that is needed is 1 good window.

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Some younger families will choose this option when they have very small children and let’s face it, they are tired. Getting out of the house can be a feat some days. I understand. And I’m with you. Right there in the trenches actually. But it is also the crazy life that we will look back on and be glad we documented. Let’s celebrate the memories we have and the ones we are going to make. Let’s document it ALL!!

As a side note, newborn sessions are always done in the comfort of your home. There is no need to stress about going to an outdoor location when you have enough on your plate already.

What time of day is best for an in-home photography session?

For littles morning seems to always be best. If we are trying to get a few outdoor shots, we may try for early morning. Not the 5AM (or earlier) when your littles drag you of bed, but 9 or 10AM before the sun gets harsh would be a preferable time.  

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How long will my session last?

Usually 45min to an hour. Much longer than that and small people are SO OVER it. And that’s ok. I typically still shoot about 400+ images in that time and we will have ~65 or more amazing images documenting your family and the beautiful authentic interactions we call “family”!

What should I wear?

Whatever makes you feel comfortable and amazing! Solids and neutrals work well on camera, however you be you! My sessions are typically laid back and casual. Jeans are always in. But if you want to dress up go for it! I usually tell moms to pick something that they feel great in and then coordinate (not match) everyone else. It’s a lot easier to find clothes for the kids and dad once you have found something that you feel is on point!

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What if my littles are not having it?

It’s ok. I understand little people and that it can be hard to be small sometimes. I usually bring along an old DSLR camera for those littles that need to “help” for a few moments while we set up some shots. Kids will be kids and that is the beauty of lifestyle photography. We are capturing moments to remember. A point in time that our heart will remember long after the moment has past.


Want to check out more lifestyle family photos? Jump over to www.lryphotography.com.  Lets book your session today! You will look back and be glad you pushed through with that extra energy you didn’t know you had and made that session happen!

Fresh 48 Photography Session | What to expect | An East Tennessee Photographer

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Why I love them

Drawing from my own experience, this time is so crucial to document! There is so much happening and so many things you won’t remember. Photos at the hospital or birthing center allow you to remember that moment in time, those first snuggles and that fresh baby smell. Ahh…it brings back all of the feels!

Booking your fresh 48 session

Relax. This is the time to focus on your new little bundle of joy. Don’t worry about pictures.

Once booked, I keep my schedule loose around your due date.

Text me when you leave for the hospital, when baby arrives and if you had to have a C-section. That’s it!

What time works best for a fresh 48 session?

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Babies are typically calmer in the mornings so for a regular delivery I try to arrive late morning or early afternoon the day after for a quick session.

If born by C-section, I try to give mom at least 24 hours before we do a session. For example, if baby is born Monday evening, we would try to schedule something for Wed morning. If baby was born Monday morning, we might try to do an early afternoon session on Tuesday.

What are fresh 48 photo sessions like?

There is no prepping, stressing or worrying about photos. You be you and enjoy your family and new little one. I treat these sessions more like a documentary session. I focus on the family unit and the new authentic love that is born with a baby enters the world.

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Depending on the room, I might try turning the lights off to reduce flat light and moving a little closer to the window. But no flash…that hurts baby’s eyes!

What to wear?

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Whatever makes you feel beautiful! If you are still feeling the hospital gown that’s ok. A tank top? That’s ok. You be you and wear what is comfortable. If dad or other family members are present, solids and neutral colors are great. However, this session is focused on your little one and clothes are the least of your concern. You be you!

How long will a session last?

Usually 30-45min. Baby always comes first. If the newborn is hungry or needs a moment we will work around that. Depending on your comfort level I can snap a few feeding shots or wait in the lobby. No rush. You only live these first moments once. We will work around the little one to make sure they are fed and comfortable.

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Do I pose newborns?

The short answer is no. I believe babies are best in their parent’s arms. Natural and safe is my motto. I may lay baby on their side, stomach or back but never in a way that makes them move into an unnatural position.

Check out more of my fresh 48 photos on my website: www.lryphotography.com

I promise you will never regret a photo session.

Let’s document these memories!


Lifestyle Family Photography | A Maryville, TN Photographer

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What to expect from a family lifestyle session

My shoots typically last 45 minutes to 1 hour. I try my best to make my sessions a fun experience! We will adapt to your family and I will take care of all posing and directing. You can relax! I do not like to make families feel too posed or frozen. I want them to feel as natural around me as possible. My hope is that clients will focus on the authentic connection of their family and I will merely be on the sidelines (or up in their grill) capturing these precious moments that can be printed, shared and admired for years to come. I will rarely ever ask you to look at the camera. Occasionally, we will try to capture that money shot to send to grandma but my primary focus is capturing authentic family moments!

What to wear for your family lifestyle session

It really doesn’t matter! My goal is to capture you and your family in the moment. I want you to feel great and confident about yourself! Besides being you, I do recommend neutrals and solids as the best clothing option. It is helpful to coordinate instead of match everyone because this is easier on the eyes. Staying away from stripes and louder colors (ex: red plaid) can be a good idea, but if a stripe is your jam we will run with it!

Usually if mom picks an outfit that she loves and feels great in, it is easier to then throw some coordinating kids and hubby clothes in the mix and call it good.

Family Lifestyle Session Locations

I love the outdoors and feel that this is the best for kids. My favorite places are a woodsy/stream area at the foot of the Smoky Mountains, Cades Cove and the Botanical Gardens in Knoxville. I also welcome the urban challenge as well like the Old City or Market Square in Knoxville, TN however, urban is a bit difficult with very little ones.

I prefer to book my clients for a particular weekend and then as the weekend gets closer we look at the weather and decide on a day Saturday or Sunday. Once the day is decided, we pick a specific time that will work best with the family’s schedule.

What if my kids are crazy?

I try to schedule around naps and recommend a snack beforehand if possible. However, if need be we will throw a blanket down by the riverbank and capture a fun family snack in the great outdoors!

Kids will be kids and that is the beauty of these sessions! As a mom I know that small children can be a handful. And that is ok! I firmly believe in children led sessions. If the littles aren’t feeling it, we will find something they do like. Playing, dancing, running. That’s what a fast shutter speed is for!

So relax and come prepared to have fun!