Lifestyle Photography is a style of portrait photography that aims to capture real emotions and authentic moments with genuine human engagement.
It strives to document more than just perfect smiling photos, rather its goal is to create and encapsulate memories in an artistic manner and most importantly to elicit a “strong feeling” in the viewer.
*Some of the real life moments that are documented include:
Affection - hugs/cuddles, kisses, holding hands
Action shots - running, jumping, walking, exploring/discovering, climbing, dancing, playing
Emotions - happiness/joy, laughter, silliness, pensive
Here Are Some Lifestyle Photography Tips:
PLAN AHEAD ~ get to know the clients and their personalities, select an appropriate location (home, yard, park, etc.), communicate goals & ideas.
DIRECT THE SHOTS ~ set up the shot by putting everyone into their positions & angles. You can start with a typical posed shot but then gently direct them to interact with each time (i.e. look at each other, tell a secret/joke, tickle each other, hug/embrace, kiss, etc.)
INCORPORATE PLAY ~ set up fun action packed activities (ring around the rosy with small kids, running/walking together while holding hands, airplane with small children, swinging the kiddos in the air, dancing, etc.) and capture it in action.
BE READY ~ the camera should always be in hand and ready to capture those candid moments. Look for engagement between family members and direct along the way to get those artistically appeals shots.
See an example below: I have captured this family since the oldest boy was in his Mama’s belly! I have captured every single session from maternity, to newborn, to family in their home and yard. I have documented each of these babies growing up throughout the years. I set up their shots and then gently direct them. As you can see there is lots of laughter, love and fun!
Family of six, lifestyle family session, Tampa, FL