1-Year Baby Photos: Everything you need to know

Celebrating your baby’s first birthday is a huge milestone! 🎂 🎉

It’s a time full of joy, memories, and maybe a little disbelief at how quickly that first year flew by.

1-year baby photos are the perfect way to capture this moment and celebrate their first trip around the sun! Recently, a client asked me some great questions about these sessions, and I thought I’d share the answers here in case you’re also considering booking 1-year baby photos.

🖼 1. Do We Receive Printing Rights on the Digital Files We Purchase?

Yes! All digital files you purchase from your 1-year baby photos come with printing rights. This means you can print your baby’s photos at your favorite lab or order professional-quality prints directly through me. Many clients love the convenience of having printing rights while also taking advantage of my curated printing options for heirloom-quality products. You get the best of both worlds!

🎈 2. Do You Use Props for Milestone Sessions?

Absolutely! While my style is clean, simple, and modern 1-year baby photos, I love incorporating meaningful props into milestone sessions. Some popular choices include:

• #1 Balloons: A fun and festive way to celebrate the big milestone.
• Cakes for Smash Sessions: A cake smash is a fun way to document your baby’s personality and make the session playful. Pro tip: give your baby a cupcake or a small cake before the session so they have an idea of what is going on – that it’s okay to get messy!
• Custom Props: I have a selection of classic props like wooden toys, baby-sized chairs, and neutral blankets. If you have something special in mind, like a family heirloom or a favorite lovie, let me know—I’m happy to include it!

While my Instagram feed often features newborns, I adore working with curious and expressive one-year-olds and creating portraits that reflect their little personalities.

📅 3. Should We Schedule the Session Before or After Baby Turns One?

It depends on how you want to use the photos:

• Before Baby Turns One: This is a great option if you plan to use the photos for a birthday party or first birthday invitations. Scheduling the session 3-4 weeks before you need them ensures you’ll have the images in time. Be sure to let me know when you need the images so I can coordinate with your timeline.
• After Baby Turns One: If you’re focused on celebrating your baby’s milestone, doing the session shortly after their first birthday works perfectly. This also gives you flexibility in choosing a date that suits your family’s schedule.

Either way, I recommend booking your 1-year baby photos early to secure your preferred date, especially during busy seasons (like fall and winter holidays!).

👕 4. What Should My Baby Wear for the Session?

Choosing the right outfit is key to achieving timeless photos. Simple, neutral and soft-colored clothing works beautifully and keeps the focus on your baby’s expressions. If you are doing a cake smash, I’d plan for a diaper cover or another outfit you don’t mind getting dirty. Feel free to plan for 2-3 outfits for the baby; this will help give your gallery more variety. I have outfits, diaper covers, knits, and bonnets for your use at the studio, too. All of the images included with this post are great examples of what to wear for 1-year baby photos!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 5. Can We Include Family Members in the Session?

Yes, of course! Many families love to include a few portraits with parents or siblings during the session. This adds a heartfelt touch and captures the bond your family shares during this special time. Family members are truly the best props.

⏱️ 6. How Long Does a 1-Year Baby Session Typically Last?

Sessions usually last around 45-60 minutes. This allows plenty of time for outfit changes, capturing a variety of poses, and ensuring your baby stays happy and comfortable throughout. A 1-year-old has a short attention span, so I try to keep things moving fairly quickly.

🌟 Why Choose a 1-Year Baby Session

The first year is full of growth and milestones, and one-year sessions capture your baby’s unique personality at this stage. The one-year baby photo session can include a cake smash, family portraits, lots of your baby’s personality, and anything else you’d like to do so that these photos will become cherished keepsakes.

Have more questions or ready to book your session? Contact me here—I’d love to help you create memories you’ll treasure forever! ✨