Capturing Candid Moments: A Guide for First-Time Parents to Collaborate with Their Photographer

Welcoming a new baby into your life is a whirlwind of joy, discovery, and a whole lot of heartwarming moments.

As a (first-time) parent, you want to capture those memories in a way that feels authentic and true to your family’s story. Enter the world of documentary-style photography!

This approach beautifully captures the candid essence of your family, allowing your real-life moments to unfold naturally.

Here’s how to work together with your photographer to create stunning, genuine images that you’ll treasure forever.

Let’s Talk Mindset

Remember, the beauty of documentary-style photography lies in its authenticity, and allowing your photographer to capture truly unique, in-between moments.

Interaction with each other is key, versus focusing on looking at the camera.

Rather than trying to pose for the perfect shot and make sure everyone is looking at the camera, it’s about engaging with your family instead. After all, we want to remember the small, everyday joys in this chapter of your lives.

We want to remember how your little one laughed, how they took genuine curiosity to the things around them, what they find comfort in, and what excites them.

It’s way less about getting your baby’s attention at every single opportunity for a posed photo.

Life is Messy & Perfectly Imperfect

That’s often the stuff that makes it beautiful, and what we often gravitate to holding onto as time goes on. We’re not striving for perfection, here, but instead, being present and leaning into the moment.

Often times, documentary-style photographers will have a vision of what we want to capture and therefore evoke in our clients during any given session organically- but for the most part, we’re all running with the waves of emotion of our little star- your baby girl/boy.

I’ll be able to lead you with some gentle prompting, but I’m always being observant of what your little one is wanting to do in the moment. A documentary-style photographer will always be excited to pivot, and run off of your little one’s momentum into the next activity during our photoshoot together!

Pick a Location That Reflects Everyday Life

Choosing the best location is key. Oftentimes, the best place to have your photo shoot is simply in your home! This could be your nursery where you’ve been taking care of your little one, or wherever you spend quality time together in your home, or your bedroom where you may lay down with your baby to play.

Wherever you may read books for nighttime lullabies or your backyard if your little one has a wide curiosity for flowers and nature, or possibly fun in the sun, playing with any pets.

Otherwise, other locations like a park you take her to play and picnic, or perhaps if on specific days off the week you go to the beach to have the family listen to the waves, play in the sand, and watch the sunset.

Brainstorm your Favorite Activities Together
As mentioned, think about all of your favorite family activities, and let those guide your interaction. When you’re busy enjoying each other, the camera will effortlessly capture those sweet, genuine smiles and laughter that tells your family’s story.

Prioritize a Familiar Space vs An Unknown Aesthetic One
The right setting can make all the difference in your photos.

As we mentioned, you should choose a location that holds meaning for your family—perhaps your backyard, a local park, or even your living room filled with toys and books.

Being in a familiar space will help everyone feel relaxed, allowing your photographer to capture the magic of everyday life way more seamlessly vs. an unfamiliar, possibly crowded spot.

That’s where we significantly increase the risk of experiencing the “Spotlight Effect,” (aka, feeling like we’re on display in front of tons of strangers!).

Lighting is Key
Look for a place with good natural light and a cozy vibe that complements your family’s personality.

If you’re debating specific rooms in your home, you can always ask your photographer for their professional opinion when it comes to finding spaces with great natural light!

Go with any location that ultimately feels sentimental, and where any and all of you can find comfort in each other, doing your favorite activities for quality time.

A general rule of thumb:

1) Any indoor location is usually best for capture midday on a brighter, clear day with ample natural light to leak through rooms with lots of windows and white decor.

2) For outdoor locations, the better times for great lighting are usually closer to sunset or sunrise!

Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera

Here’s a tip that goes towards what you should expect during the photoshoot.

One of the biggest tips for getting those candid shots? Immerse yourselves in the moment and interact with one another. It’s your photographer’s job to make you feel comfortable to do so, so that it only feels seamless, and that time goes by fast!

Engage in activities that your little one enjoys, whether that’s playing with their favorite toy, reading a book together, making funny noises, or even just snuggling in a cozy corner of your home.

Prepare to Be Prompted & Hear Funny Noises

Yes- your photographer may join in on it! If it’s part of the process like it is for me, we may start joining in on the fun to get your baby’s attention for a few quick snaps.

Otherwise, if you’re hoping for more variety in photos, your photographer will help gently guide or lightly prompt you to move and do something different to capture the next in-between moment.

Pick Outfits that Balance Comfort and Style

Let’s talk outfit styling! You want to look put together without sacrificing comfort—especially when you’re wrangling a wiggly baby.

Choose clothing that makes you feel confident and reflects your personal style while allowing for movement and flexibility. Think soft fabrics, layers, and coordinating colors rather than matching outfits.

Cohesive Colors & Tones
Consider choosing a color palette that resonates with you and feels cohesive to the colors and tones at your selected photoshoot location.

Neutrals with different textures can create a visually appealing look without overwhelming the frame- that way, the focus is still on the connection between everyone.

Remember that comfort, function, and wearing something that helps you feel confident is key!

Timing is Everything

If you’ve ever dealt with a cranky baby while running errands, going out for a group brunch or BBQ, or simply managing work-life balance- you know that timing can make or break how you’re going about your day with your little one!

Schedule your session for when your baby has gotten into a more predictable routine, and typically can be at their best energy—typically shortly after a nap and snack. This way, they’re well-rested and ready to show off their adorable smiles, some giggles, and can get excited about being lifted and cuddled versus overstimulated!

Discuss timing with your photographer for their best professional recommendation. They can help you choose the best time of day for optimal lighting and your baby’s energy levels all in mind!

Final Thoughts

Let your love shine through—the camera will capture your genuine moments, and you’ll be left with heartfelt memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Happy shooting, and enjoy this beautiful chapter of life with your little one!

Book a Lifestyle-Focused, Documentary-Style Family Session with me, today!

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Julianne Rose Photography