A session built around

where they are right now.

Some stages pass before you even realize they are happening. Studio milestone sessions are designed to document your child at this exact moment, whether that is a baby sitting up for the first time, a one-year-old who has completely changed in the last few months, or a pair of siblings at an age they will never be again together. A few portraits with mom tucked in at the end are always welcome too.

Sessions are 30 minutes, studio-only, and kept intentionally simple so your child stays comfortable and the portraits stay focused.  Just your child, right now, beautifully documented.

studio milestone sessions

Session Types

all their own

a session

These are the most common reasons families book a studio milestone session. But if there is a stage your family does not want to forget, that is reason enough.

Around 6 to 8 months, babies figure out how to sit up and the whole world opens up. This is one of the most expressive, personality-packed stages, and it goes by faster than you expect.

Sitter Sessions

6-9 months

One whole year. First birthday sessions can include a cake smash, just bring a cake and I'll do the rest. Or keep it simple and sweet without one. Either way, it is a milestone that deserves more than a phone snapshot.

First Birthdays

12 months

Any stage worth saving

Nine months, a second birthday, a toddler with too much personality to contain, siblings who won't be this close in age for long, or just a few portraits with mom. If it matters to your family, it is worth documenting.

All ages

What to Expect

on session day

the experience

01

After booking, you will receive a prep guide with outfit inspiration and session tips, plus a short questionnaire so I can get a feel for your child's personality and what matters most to you.

Before your session

02

Sessions are calm, unhurried, and completely focused on your child. I follow their lead, work with their energy, and know how to bring out genuine expressions without forcing anything.

During your session

03

Your curated gallery is ready within 2-3 weeks. From there, you'll purchase your collection and have access to an online store to order artwork. Every image is edited with a timeless, natural finish.

After your session

Valerie is so talented and captured our son perfectly! The pictures are soft and beautiful. We look forward to using her again!

—  Kelly C

We LOVE Valerie!! We used her for our 6 month photos and our baby boy loved her! He couldn’t stop smiling!

—  Kelsey B

BEYOND thrilled with the photos Valerie took of my daughter. Valerie is professional and incredibly talented - would 100% recommend her for all your baby or family photography services.

—  Margie S

Everything you Need to Know

session details

2-3 weeks

Gallery Delivery

Delivered via private online gallery

Session Length

30 minutes

Short enough for babies, focused enough for any age

Location

Raleigh studio

Private, calm, climate-controlled

Who it's For

Babies, kids, and siblings

Any age, any milestone worth saving

Investment

Studio Milestone Session Pricing

Every studio milestone session begins with a $250 session fee, paid at booking to reserve your spot. This covers your session itself and is separate from your collection purchase. After your gallery is delivered, you'll choose the collection that fits your family best.

Paid at booking to secure your date.
This is a separate fee and is not applied toward your collection.

Session Fee:

$250

collections

Essential

$350

+ TAX

5 Digital Images
$50 Print Credit

BOOK NOW
BOOK NOW

Upgrade

$475

+ TAX

10 Digital Images
$125 Print Credit

Most Popular

Premium

$600

+ TAX

All Digital Images
$250 Print Credit

BOOK NOW

What's a print credit?

Your print credit is included with your collection and can be applied toward any keepsake product, including albums, custom birth announcements, framed prints, and more.

View products & pricing

Common questions

always ask

Things families

What age is best for a studio milestone session?

Studio milestone sessions work well from around 6 months and up. The sitter stage, around 6 to 8 months, is especially popular because babies are so expressive at that age. First birthdays, 9 months, toddlers, and older kids all photograph beautifully in the studio too. If you are not sure whether your child's age is a good fit, just reach out.

Can I bring siblings to the session?

Yes. Sibling portraits are a great fit for a 30-minute studio session, whether you want photos of just the two of them or a mix of individual and together shots. If siblings are coming, just mention it when you book so I can plan the session accordingly.

What should my child wear?

Simple and soft tends to work best. Neutral tones, gentle textures, and minimal logos or busy patterns keep the focus on your child. After booking, you will receive a style guide with more specific suggestions based on the studio's setups and color palette.

Do you offer cake smash sessions?

Yes. Cake smash sessions are available as an option for first birthday bookings. Just bring a cake and we will take care of the rest. Not every family wants a smash, and that is completely fine. First birthday sessions without one are just as special.

Ready to get your session

on the calendar?

Browse the calendar below to view available dates and times, then click on an opening that works for your family to complete your booking. It only takes a few minutes.

Sessions fill up quickly, so if you see a date you love, go ahead and grab it.

Don't see a date that works?

send me a message

Availability changes regularly and I always do my best to accommodate. Reach out and let me know what you're looking for and I'll see what I can do.

Interested in a whole family session?

Contact Valerie

Studio milestone sessions are designed for 1 to 3 people. For a full family studio session, send me a message and I will help you find the right fit.