Lifestyle Photography: The Ultimate Guide
You know your product is great—but does your audience know it too? You don’t just want them to notice your product, but want it, crave it, and maybe even feel a little envious about it!
So, how do you make your product look irresistible? It’s all about lifestyle photography. Here’s everything you need to know to make your products pop off the screen and into your customers’ cart.
What Is Lifestyle Photography?
So, what exactly is lifestyle photography? It’s all about capturing those real, in-the-moment shots that spark emotion and draw people in.
Think of it as the opposite of stiff, posed portraits. It’s all about action—people moving, laughing, and being themselves. It feels raw, natural, and completely authentic, making it easier for viewers to connect and relate.
What It Isn't
Lifestyle photography often gets lumped in with traditional portrait photography, but that’s a bit misleading. Unlike those stiff, posed family portraits, lifestyle photography is anything but rigid.
It also isn’t quite the same as documentary photography, where the photographer just observes without any guidance.
Lifestyle photographers land somewhere in the middle: there’s a plan, but it’s all about capturing candid, real moments. Instead of holding a pose, we let moments unfold naturally, creating images that feel alive and authentic.
When Do You Need Lifestyle Photography?
Wondering if lifestyle photography is your vibe? Here are some signs it's the right fit:
You want a photo shoot that tells a story.
You’re after photos that capture emotion.
You crave genuine, authentic images—not the forced kind.
You love the idea of “slice of life” art that feels real.
If any of this speaks to you, lifestyle photography might be exactly what you're looking for!
Why Should You Hire a Lifestyle Photographer?
Lifestyle photographers do an incredible job of speaking to the viewer. It stirs up emotion and invites people to picture themselves right there in the moment.
This makes it especially powerful for product photography, where the goal is to make consumers not just see a product, but want it. If you’re looking to create that kind of connection, hiring a lifestyle photographer is the way to go.
Lifestyle Photoshoot Examples
The whole goal of a lifestyle photoshoot is to inspire and pull the viewer right into the scene. Whether it’s a cozy family moment or showcasing a product, lifestyle photography creates that “I want to be there” feeling. As a product photographer, I love using this approach for everything from products to family or individual sessions.
Everyday moments
These are all about featuring a product as part of a daily routine, helping customers picture it fitting seamlessly into their lives.
Take Oatly, for example. They often show quirky or eye-catching relatable scenes of someone pouring oat milk into their morning coffee or smoothie, set somewhere with a cool aesthetic. It’s a simple, familiar moment that makes the product feel essential to your day.
Family interactions
If your brand’s target audience is families, there’s no better way to connect than with lifestyle shots of families using your products. These images let potential customers see how your product fits into family life, solves a problem, or enhances a specific lifestyle.
Avocado, a green mattress brand, nails this by showing sleeping children or families enjoying cozy mornings together on their mattresses. It’s all about making your product feel like part of the family dynamic.
Outdoor activities
If you’re looking to inspire a sense of adventure, outdoor activity shots are the way to go. They help your audience imagine themselves out in nature, ready to tackle their next thrill—with your product in hand.
For example, Patagonia nails this by featuring hikers scaling mountains, kayakers on wild rivers, or climbers navigating rugged terrain—all while wearing Patagonia gear. It’s all about showcasing the product as an essential part of the adventure.
Social gatherings
If you’re selling food, beverages, or kitchen essentials, capturing a lively social gathering can be a game-changer. It shows how your product gets the party started—or keeps it going.
Le Creuset does this brilliantly, often showcasing its cookware in the middle of vibrant dinner parties or festive brunches, with colorful dishes, laughing guests, and delicious food on display. It’s all about making the product feel like the centerpiece of a good time.
Product demonstrations
These photos show viewers exactly how your product can fit into their routines and solve a problem. It’s often done through a series of step-by-step images, capturing each stage of using the product.
For example, Glossier excels at this by demonstrating how to use their Milky Jelly Cleanser. The series starts with a close-up of someone applying it to dry skin, followed by gentle massaging, and ends with rinsing off to reveal fresh, glowing skin.
How To Plan A Lifestyle Photoshoot
Ready to make your next brand shoot feel more authentic? Here’s how to nail that lifestyle vibe:
Step #1: Decide what story you’re going to tell.
What’s the main vibe you want your photos to give off? Are you aiming for laid-back and cozy, or bold and glamorous? What’s the opening scene of the shoot that draws people in? How does it build up to that “wow” moment? And what’s the lasting impression?
Step #2: Create a shot list.
Do you need dreamy close-ups to show off your product’s texture? A wide shot to set the scene? How about a mix of shots with and without your model? Visualize every detail you’ll need to bring your story to life.
Step #3: Choose an authentic setting and select the time of day.
To nail that real-life vibe, the right setting is everything. You want a location that feels authentic like it’s straight out of your audience’s every day (or aspirational!) life.
Think outside the box: rent a chic Airbnb for cozy family shots, hit up a trendy café for a luxury handbag shoot, or stroll through a national park for an outdoor brand. And don’t forget the timing—golden hour brings that dreamy glow, while midday light adds a crisp, bold look.
Step #4: Choose a face that reflects the messaging and brand image.
Are you the face of your brand? Will you use professionals? Whoever becomes the face of your brand should be a reflection of your brand’s personality and your audience’s vibe. Choose someone your audience can easily relate to, or even aspire to be.
And don’t be afraid to use real customers! There’s no better way to create authenticity than featuring the people who already love your brand. When viewers see themselves in your photos, it’s a total win.
Step #5: Plan poses that are natural and comfortable.
Ditch the stiff, posed vibes. You want your photos to feel easy, like a peek into someone’s real life. Go for natural poses that match the story you’re telling—whether that’s a casual laugh over coffee or a spontaneous twirl in a fab dress.
Step #6: Find ways to add brand elements.
Keep your brand front and center—without being too obvious. Add little details that scream you but still feel natural. It could be a signature color in the background, a recognizable prop, or even a branded coffee cup that makes a casual cameo.
Step #7: Make sure you have the right camera setup and accessories.
Don’t stress over fancy gear. Even if you’re on a budget, you can still capture stunning shots—sometimes all you need is a well-angled smartphone and good lighting.
But if you’ve got a bit more to spend, consider hiring a brand photographer. They’ll bring professional equipment, and experience, and can handle most of the planning for you.
Whether you go DIY or pro, make sure you have the basics: a tripod for steady shots, a reflector for better lighting, and a few lens options (even clip-ons for your phone) to switch up your angles.
Lifestyle photography FAQ
What is considered lifestyle photography?
Lifestyle photography captures people in real-life situations, focusing on natural, candid moments rather than posed setups. It aims to tell a story or convey emotion through images that feel authentic and relatable.
How to get started in lifestyle photography?
To get started in lifestyle photography, focus on capturing candid moments in natural settings. Use natural light, encourage genuine interactions, and choose locations that reflect real-life scenarios. Start by practicing with friends or family to build your portfolio.
What is an example of lifestyle imagery?
An example of lifestyle imagery is a photo of a family having a picnic in a park, with a focus on their interactions and emotions. The scene feels natural and the photographer is capturing real-life moments that viewers can relate to.
Book a Lifestyle Photoshoot with Brooke Nichole
Ready to bring your brand to life with eye-catching, authentic images? Let’s plan the perfect lifestyle photoshoot that’ll make your customers say, “I need that!”
As a professional lifestyle photographer, I specialize in making your brand the star of the show. Book a free consultation today, and let’s create magic!
