I have been privileged to be able to work with Stephanie and Constantin in documenting some of the most important milestones in their lives. From their engagement, bridal shower and wedding, to their lifestyle baby session celebrating the arrival of baby Michael. Having seen them develop as a couple, it was a joy to document their transition into family mode.

Michael was a little older than newborn, so we were able to see more of his personality shine through and utilize his time awake. Constantin’s mother had knitted him the little boxer outfit which held huge sentimental value. I’m sure as he grows they will marvel at how tiny he once was to fit in it.

Michael featuring his first true love during this adorable lifestyle baby session

They had decided on a lifestyle baby session as a way to celebrate Michael’s arrival and offer a snapshot of what life looked like for him in the world in that particular chapter of his life. We were able to showcase how life had changed to adapt to a newborn by photographing in their family home. While there is a huge market for traditional newborn photography, I choose to steer away from the set ups and props. It is a popular choice and there are an abundance of photographers who do it very well. Personally I prefer to offer a much more realistic representation of the baby and it’s presence within the family. A newborn is such a life changing moment so being able to capture the shift in dynamics and include the parents role is far more satisfying. The focus is off the parents and how they look and instead is shifted to portray the emotional connections.

Stephanie and Constantin had a beautiful house in Toronto that offered plenty of opportunities for different backdrops. Although the intention isn’t to focus on the decor, being able to look back at these photos over the decades offers a fantastic way to reminisce on how styles and fads change. Their connection with Michael was honest and raw. You could see the happiness radiating as they interacted with him and held him close. Parents out there will instantly recognize Sophie the giraffe; the answer to all teething problems. It’s impossible not to remember how Sophie was so many of our children’s first loves.

This post feeding image in Michael’s lifestyle baby session might make you tear up

One of the most priceless images to me as a father and as a photographer was being able to present Stephanie with a snapshot post feeding. Regardless of whether you breastfeed or bottle feed, there’s a special moment and bond that happens. Michael’s little hands on her chest and the necklace he would play with when nursing are exclusive to them. It’s differences like capturing these moments and that of them in the chair, that make their session unique. The backdrops and setups aren’t the same as thousands of other newborns and they hold an extra special meaning.

There is such a surge of emotions during the early days of bringing a baby home. By choosing a lifestyle baby session and shooting in your house, the weight is taken off your shoulder. There aren’t any time constraints, you and your baby are somewhere familiar and you have access to all your clothes, make up, baby bits etc. The images are real and unique to you with minimal editing vs excessively manipulated photoshopped results. Some food for thought as you decide what the best option is for you and your family.