Photographing Your Baby’s First Year

It’s no surprise that your baby will grow and change at an amazing rate in their first year of life. They go from sleepy, tiny little newborns to walking and talking (or at least almost walking & talking) in ONE year! Because of this, and all of the cuteness that comes along with it, it is so important to take lots of photos in videos of this incredible time of their (and your) lives. I’ve put together an outline with tips for each different milestone that you’ll want to document while photographing your baby’s first year. Even better, you can hire a photographer like myself to do it for you!

Newborn | The Start of Photographing your Baby’s First Year

Photographing the newborn stage is all about capturing their tiny details & sleepy yawns. I generally take newborn photos around 2-3 weeks old, and often babies are asleep for much of the session. Here are some things I like to keep in mind when photographing a newborn baby:

• Since babies aren’t generally on a schedule at this stage, the particular time of the session can vary. The best way to prepare is to make sure they’re well fed and have a dry diaper before we begin.
• Poses and styling: safety is the top priority when posing your newborn! I always focus on gentle and comfortable positions, and use soft blankets or wraps to create a cozy environment. Many of your baby’s photos should take place in their favorite place ever – snuggled up in your arms.
• Newborns can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be patient and flexible. We’ll take breaks as needed for diaper changes and feeding.

3 Months

At the 3-months old, your baby will have longer periods awake and will show more engagement and personality! Babes at this stage can still be quite sleepy, but we’ll have more chances of catching big grins and lots of eye contact.

• Your baby is probably developing more strength in their neck and can hold their head up more so we can do photos with them propped up in your arms or maybe laying on their tummy.
• Most 3 month old babies are still happiest laying on their backs, so I will often photograph them on a large cushion or in a cute basket. Since they are using their hands in a more coordinated way, we can also have them hold a cute rattle or other favorite toy!

6 Months

Babies start to really transform around six months of age. They are much more interactive, and will start being able to sit on their own and play with toys. This age is so wonderful to photograph!

• Once your baby learns to sit up, it becomes their favorite way to be! I’ll capture lots of images of them looking up at you and smiling.
• Most little ones will start getting really chunky around 6 months, so I love outfits that show off the little rolls on their arms and legs. For lots of clothing ideas, you can read my article all about dressing your baby for photos.
• Toys start to become fun to include in photos at this age, so I have of simple, wooden toys for them to play with like blocks, stacking rings, and rattles.

9 Months

As baby gets closer to their first birthday, they are starting to become mobile! Many will be starting to crawl at this age and possibly pulling to stand.

• Capturing babies on the move is the name of the game. I like to get some crawling action shots or have them standing with support.
• I’ll often incorporate a basket to keep baby contained – cute and practical, double win!
• I love playing games like peek-a-boo, and playing their favorite music to keep it fun. You’re always welcome to bring any favorite toys or sentimental items to incorporate in the session.

12 Months | The Finale of Photographing Your Baby’s First Year!

The big first birthday is such an exciting time! Celebrating their first trip around the sun absolutely deserves a photo session whether it’s at home, in the studio, or outdoors.

• For a first birthday, many parents will choose to include a birthday cake or cupcake for a cake smash. It is so fun to watch as babies curiously taste the icing and then proceed to make a big ‘ole mess!
• If you aren’t in the cake smash idea, then a simple playful session is great. Babies at this age don’t sit still for long, so we’ll stay on the move and keep things silly.
• If your baby is walking I’ll encourage them to show off their new skill so we can document it. If they’re not quite there yet then we can photograph them holding your hand or propped up by a stool or other sturdy object.

No matter the age, it’s always my honor to photograph your babies! If you’re interested in working together and want me to capture any or all of these important milestones, you can book a single session or a Baby’s First Year package.

Photographing your Baby’s First Year by Worth Capturing Photography