Don’t blink!
Little ones change so quickly during their first few years. Let’s capture every big moment!
This prep guide is full of information I’ve gathered over my 12+ years in business. It contains pretty much everything you’ll need to know to make the most of your time with me: from what happens before, during and after your session, to what to wear, to tips I’ve found to help create a successful session for everyone.
As always, don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions at any step along the way. My ultimate goal (besides creating gorgeous photos) is for you to enjoy this process. I pride myself in the awesome customer service I provide, and I hope you walk away from your session experience completely satisfied and in love with your portraits.
what you need to know
before your session
session questionnaire
After booking, you will receive a session questionnaire that will ask about your personal style, specifics you want for the session, ideas or concerns you might have, etc. It is important to take your time and fill out the questionnaire as completely as possible. The more you can tell me about what you’re hoping for, the more successful our session will be. I welcome you to send along photos of my past work that you love.
what to wear
Here are some overall thoughts on clothing for your little one, but please read each age description below for more detailed information. Solids and simple prints are best to keep the focus on faces. Textures and layers are great to add interest. Make sure clothes fit well and aren’t too baggy. Avoid neon colors, orange and red near the face, large prints, as well as large, distracting logos. Please choose outfits and accessories that don’t need fixed constantly. I do have a growing collection of baby clothes for your little one, so you are welcome to borrow things from me as well. Check out the Milestone Client Closet here.
I typically ask that you send me some quick photos of the outfits you plan to bring in the week leading up to your session. That way I can have some setups planned in my head.
what to bring
In addition to the necessities (diapers, wipes, etc), feel free to bring a favorite toy or blankie to comfort baby. It’s also wise to bring extra milk/formula/drinks and a snack just in case baby needs a break.
stranger anxiety
I’ve found that babies as young as 6 months can start to feel uneasy around strangers. When you arrive, one of the first things I do is assess how your child reacts to me. Some children have no problems interacting with me and others are immediately leery. Sometimes we can dive right into the session, and other times we might spend the first 10-15 minutes playing on the floor, letting them adjust to me and their new environment. Please know that your child’s comfort and happiness is of top importance.
Rescheduling
Life happens! If there is a family emergency, if anyone isn’t feeling well, or your little one takes a tumble (scrape/bruise), just reach out and we can discuss a change of plans. Please know that I am happy to work with any issues that arise, and that I leave time in my schedule to accommodate them. I’d love to hear from you 24+ hours before the session if at all possible.
time sure does fly!
Ages & Stages
3-5 months
At this age, baby spends much of their time photographed on their backs. I will change setups and outfits often to add variety. If baby is willing, I will also try to pose on their belly and safely propped in a sitting position.
Smiles are not always common at this age, but I will certainly try my best. I know, no matter what, we will get beautiful portraits of your little one that capture their sweet dispositions and how much baby has grown.
Clothing suggestions: keep things very simple. A onesie, a romper, a pair of shorts/pants or bloomers. Avoid clothing that is too baggy or bulky.
6-10 Months
Baby’s personality is shining through now! I will feature baby sitting on their own, pushing up, and maybe even crawling. Some clients choose to wait until baby is sitting well to schedule their session, and others prefer to capture them at a specific age. Feel free to chat with me about what works best for you.
Clothing suggestions: Keep things pretty simple. Bring items that let baby kick and wiggle around comfortably. This is also a great age to feature those beautiful baby rolls. I aim for 3 outfits/setups at this session.
First Birthday
A one-year session typically lasts a bit longer, especially if we’re doing a cake smash. We will spend quite a bit of time chasing your little one around as they explore the studio. Be ready for a workout! Some littles are still comfortable crawling, while others love to stand, walk or even run. I move quickly at these sessions, but snack breaks and a snuggle are always welcome.
Clothing suggestions: I aim for 3 outfits/setups at a one-year studio session. This includes a festive setup if you’d like. I am happy to supply balloons/decor, but clients need to bring the cake if they’d like one (more details below).
If you’d prefer to be outdoors for this session, I’d suggest 1-2 outfits in total so we can focus a bit more on the scenery.
I can’t wait to see you!
session day is here
A Milestone Session is short and sweet! Please plan to be with me for around 60 minutes. Often, I am done quicker than this, but sometimes baby needs some extra snuggles or snacks to get comfortable. My time is almost always flexible, so leave your stress at home and we can work together to have the most successful session possible. You will very much be a part of the session, even if you aren’t in any photos. Family photos are taken first (if you choose to do them), then you will help me with getting baby into place the rest of the time. This can be quite a workout once baby is on the move, so dress accordingly.
what to expect
After your session
Choosing your portraits
Seven to ten days after your session, I will send along your proof gallery via email. You’ll be able to view each watermarked image individually and also in a beautiful slideshow set to music. You will have 3 days to choose your final portraits, so feel free to browse your images and watch your slideshow as much as you’d like.
time to shop
I pride myself in the beautiful, unique art products I offer. There is truly something for everyone, from wall art to albums to desktop art. Once you receive your final gallery, you will also have access to the variety of prints and art products offered. You will have a full month to download your final images and shop in the store.
Let’s get messy!
Cake Smash Details
Cake smashes are optional for a one year session, but can be a great way to end the session and help focus your baby’s waning attention one last time. Some kids dig right into their cake and others need some encouragement. Be ready to get your hands dirty (and sometimes clothes) showing your little one how it’s done.
Please know that not all kids enjoy cake or the cake smash experience. I’ve found that kids who aren’t used to sweets, or who don’t like getting their hands dirty, don’t usually do well. So, I suggest grabbing a cupcake and doing a trial run (or two) with your little one if you think this might be an issue.
Cake providers
Because of allergies, I am unable to order and provide the cake. However, you are welcome to bring one with you. Most grocery stores can make a custom 8-10″ round, tiered cake. I have also had some clients bring gorgeous cakes from Olesia Diak Bakery and White Flower Cake Shoppe.
Local Baker Recommendation: If you’re looking for an amazing, over-the-top cake, check out Lindsay Gruber on Facebook. Her cakes typically run about $50-85, but please message her for more details (and please try to give her at least 2 weeks’ notice). She can usually drop the cake off at my studio before the session.
Cake Alternatives
You could bring a stack of pancakes, a pumpkin pie, a box of donuts, a watermelon, or even a bowl of spaghetti! I’ve seen it all and am open to ideas!