What Is Lifestyle Photography?

Many photographers call themselves “lifestyle photographers” but what exactly is it? We’re going to do a deep dive into all things lifestyle photography today so you know exactly what to expect from a Seattle lifestyle photographer should you hire one!

What is Lifestyle Photography anyway?

In a nutshell, lifestyle photography makes you feel like you’re stepping into a real moment, where you can feel the connection, emotion and story being told. This has become a very popular choice for Seattle families – especially because we have such gorgeous nature backdrops and an active lifestyle!

How Does Lifestyle Photography Differ From Traditional Portraits?

It’s likely that when you visit your grandparents or family’s home, you’ll see posed, studio style portraits hanging on the wall. Those are great (cringy outfits and all) but what story can you see and feel from those photos? Unlike those posed portraits with fake backdrops, controlled lighting, and everyone looking at the camera, lifestyle photos aren’t “one and done”. A lifestyle photographer will spend at least an hour with your family, documenting your time together. The goal is to simply be present with each other.

A lifestyle photo (or set of photos) tell’s the viewers so much more about the family! For instance, this young family wanted to memorialize their time spent in Seattle (with mountains) before moving back to the east coast. It tells us they loved the outdoors, spending time with their dog, dancing in the sunshine and more! Their first home with their twin girls was in Seattle so these photos are much more meaningful to them than a random studio.

Why Families Love It!

Most of the photos in a lifestyle gallery capture people in real-life situations in a natural, authentic and FUN way. Kids (and dads) are much happier when they are playing vs standing stiff with a frozen smile on their face. My favorite thing about lifestyle photos is it creates tangible memories of your time together – and it’s much more about the experience than the product.

Lifestyle photography:

• Encourages movement and interaction
• Focuses on candid, in-between moments (like comforting your sad child)
• Uses natural light and real environments
• Captures personalities, not just appearances

Looking for some examples of Lifestyle Photography in Seattle?

I have done so many fun sessions and can’t wait to do more! Here are some ideas:

• A misty morning at the beach
• A ferry ride!
• Backyard hang with the fam lounging on hammocks and picking flowers from the garden
• Watching the ducks at Golden Gardens
• A rainy day jumping in puddles

There’s no pressure to be perfect. The magic comes from being yourself.

The Value of Lifestyle Photography

Years from now, these images become your child’s childhood memories. They become your memories. How they ran to you with arms wide open. How they always put their boots on the wrong feet. When they were so small, dad could carry everyone at once.

If you value authenticity over perfection, storytelling over staged moments, lifestyle photography may be for you! Because in the end, the most meaningful photos aren’t the ones where everything looks perfect, they’re the ones where everything feels real