From that tiny newborn stage to walking and running, I love to capture all the stages in that first year. I’ve been photographing babies now for almost 17 years and I’ve had 3 of my own. With that combined knowledge I have found the best set of stages to photograph your baby for unique photos that really capture all their changes in that first year.
Newborn:
This is a given. You really don’t ever get this time back and there is a short window to capture babies in the newborn stage. I see babies from 7-21 days for newborn photos. Now if baby was born early then this time frame may be adjusted based on gestational age or due date. This also may be adjusted if there were complications after birth or you were just hoping to keep baby home for the first few weeks. You haven’t missed your window for photos, but we may just adjust what we do. Ideally babies should be around 7-14days. Due to this relatively short time frame, it is best to book your session when you are still pregnant and then I will set a tentative date that we can adjust once baby arrives. Parents and Siblings are usually photographed during the newborn session with the baby
4-5 Month:
This stage is so fun to see their giggles and smiles. They are typically gaining more strength and can start lifting themselves up onto their arms. They may be teething, so chewing on fingers is totally normal. They love. to lay on their backs kicking and stretching. They may even try to roll over! I love using some. of the same props and colors from the newborn session through the stages.
7-8 Month:
This is one of my favorite ages. Sometimes they are crawling or scooting but many times they are just ready to sit and smile cute. Stranger danger and clinging on to mom and dad can start to appear but we work through it. This is a great time to add on family again for family pictures. It’s best if baby is sitting steady on their own without toppling. Simple wardrobe is provided but you are always welcome to bring a special outfit!
12 Month/ 1 year:
You made it a whole year! Hopefully most of the sleepless nights are behind you. Baby is now crawling, standing while holding on/running or walking with assistance. They are fast so we are on our toes catching them for photos. Some parents like to add on a cake smash for the 12 month session or do updated family photos. This is one milestone you don’t want to miss.
