What is LifeStyle Photography?

It's a term that seems to be spreading quickly in the photography world and becoming more commonly used these days to describe a professional photographers style of shooting, instead of a traditional "studio" shoot...but what does it mean?  By definition (well, ok, according to wikipedia), it is a style of photography that aims to capture and document real-life events, situations, or milestones in an artistic manner.  But again, what does that REALLY mean?  

To me, it means capturing life AS IS.  It is freezing in time some of the most rare and special moments that flitter in and out of every single day.  This includes the good, the bad, the dirty, the silly...all of it. Please understand, there is nothing wrong with a posed, placed, and styled shot.  This is often the intent or purpose behind a person's initial interest when they contact their photographer - and it may be their only interest.  And that's ok!  We all want that perfect picture of our family, looking at the camera, beautiful and happy.
But, to go back to a definition...what is the true meaning of beautiful?  

beau-ti-ful [byoo-tuh-fuh l]

adjective

1. having beauty; possessing qualities that give great pleasure or satisfaction to see, hear, think about, etc.; delighting the senses or mind

2.  excellent of its kind

3.  wonderful; very pleasing or satisfying

(source: dictionary.reference.com)

My favorite part of this definition is: delighting the senses or mind.
When a picture strikes an emotion...and is not only captured but relayed through an image -
THAT is lifestyle photography.

When personalities shine through the screen/page without even trying -
THAT is lifestyle photography.

When everyday moments become something special that you want to keep them tucked away so you can one day use to tell stories, start conversations, and just remember when -

THAT is lifestyle photography.

Lifestyle photography sessions can be a scary thing for many people to invest their time, energy and money into.  I've heard it many times "You mean you want to shoot in MY house??  Are you crazy?  It's a disaster!"  Realize, I'm not there to photograph the chaos of your ten-day old pile of laundry, or on-the-edge-of-hoarding playroom -- we ALL have it.  It's the beauty that takes place around this insanity that is worth investing your time, energy and money into.  I promise.  And no, it doesn't have to take place in your home.  Just breath easy, and be comfortable where you are - allow your family to be comfortable where they are - and this will come across in each smile, giggle, frown and (sometimes) tear.

I consider myself to be a Lifestyle photographer because it is what drives my love of picking up my camera.  No matter where the "art of life" takes place.... the ice cream shop, local coffee shop, playground, splash pad, or even a backyard BBQ.  It is so fulfilling to see individual personalities shine through a lens...even when it comes from an unexpected place. 

It's been a ongoing dream of mine, to start "A Day in the Life" and actually follow a family, beginning from the moments they wake up and breakfast begins to the end of the day when bedtime stories are read and the littles are tucked in...thus, creating a story of their "life".  Is one day "Life"?  Maybe not, but just think of the memories that will be forever captured in story form.  It gives me goosebumps, just thinking about it.  Is this idea realistic?  I hope to one day make it my reality.  What do you think?  Are you in?

But until then, most importantly - just live in the moment - and document the moment.  Don't be afraid of showing your true side.  Don't be afraid of not getting "the perfect shot" - because less than perfect - is often the most beautiful.  Remember - does it delight the senses or mind?  Then it's beautiful.

And of course if you need someone to document those moments... I'm all yours.

A HUGE thank you to the Fuhrman family for allowing me into their home - and allowing me to be one of them for the afternoon.  Lunch, play, an art session and even bath time - it was absolutely brilliant from beginning to end.

Just for them and for you to enjoy.... a few more (because, believe me, I could create an album's worth).