Unposed, Unfiltered and Uniquely Unraveled: Exploring Documentary and Lifestyle Photography

At our Norfolk Workshop, we hosted two unique shoots with two different families—one a documentary session led by the incredible Allie Clarke, and the other a lifestyle shoot held at Anaway Place.

Though often confused, lifestyle and documentary photography are distinctly different. Documentary photography captures real, unscripted moments exactly as they unfold—no posing, no direction, just truth and time preserved. Lifestyle photography, on the other hand, blends authenticity with gentle guidance. It’s still natural and emotional, but the photographer may offer prompts or direction to create intentional moments that reflect a family’s connection or a story’s mood.

Here are some stunning images from one of our attendees, Brianna Rannells of Coppar and Coal Photography, that beautifully showcase lifestyle photography. The scenes were designed to reflect the family’s genuine connection—with just enough direction to bring out their natural rhythm and warmth.