What to Expect at Your Baby’s First Birthday Photo Session in Vancouver, WA

If you’re a parent planning your baby’s first birthday photo session in Vancouver WA—first of all, yay! You’re officially one year into this wild, wonderful ride. And second, I’m so glad you’re here. I know how much goes into planning these milestone moments, and I’m here to make this one feel joyful, easy, and full of genuine smiles (and maybe a little frosting).

Before Your Baby’s First Birthday Photo Session

Once you book, I’ll send over a little prep guide with all the need-to-knows, but here’s a quick rundown of what happens leading up to the session:

• Pick a vibe: Classic and clean? Full-blown cake smash? Outdoor adventure? I’ll help you choose what works best for your little one’s personality—and your vision.
• Outfits: I’ll share my favorite tips and sources for outfits that photograph beautifully, or if you’d rather just skip that part all together – I’ve got a whole baby wardrobe of the sweetest, timeless pieces that work well.
• Timing is everything: We’ll schedule around your baby’s happiest time of day—usually after nap + snack = magic.

During Your Baby’s First Birthday Photo Session in Vancouver, WA

Sessions typically last about 30-40 minutes, depending on how your baby is feeling. Here’s what a typical session flow looks like:

1. Warm-Up Time

We start slow and playful. I’ll let your baby explore the space, get used to me and my camera, and warm up at their own pace. Think peekaboo from behind the lens, songs, clapping – babies eat that stuff up! This is also a great time to grab some pictures of parents playing with and loving on their baby – we get pictures of you together, and your baby gets to warm up to me from the security of your arms. It’s a win-win!

2. Portraits

Next up: sweet milestone portraits. We’ll capture those big baby eyes, tiny toes, leg rolls, and gummy grins in all their glory. I’m all about capturing all of the details for you to remember forever. My studio is stocked with simple, neutral wooden toys to help your baby feel at ease and get them feeling playful while I capture all of their precious expressions. If you’re doing a family add-on, we’ll make sure to add in some sweet sibling and whole family shots as well.

3. Cake Smash (Optional, but oh-so-adorable!)

If you’re into the idea of a cake smash, this is when the frosting flies. I recommend a small, baby-safe cake with soft white frosting—less for taste, more for smashability. Don’t worry, I’ve got cleanup covered. I’ll just ask that your cake by free of dyes (it stains my white cake smash floor and, also, your baby).

After Your First Birthday Photo Session

Within a couple of weeks, you’ll receive your fully edited gallery—filled with joy, personality, and a whole lot of “how are they already one?!” moments that leave you bursting with pride and admiration for your favorite 1 year old. From there you can choose your most loved images for digital download and prints! If you’d like to hear all of the pricing details, you can read all about that here!

Helpful Tips for a Smooth First Birthday Photo Session

• Bring backup outfits: One for photos (if you’re not planning to use my wardrobe), one for post-smash. You’ll thank me.
• Snacks + water: Babies are basically tiny divas. Let’s keep the energy (and smiles) flowing. Just make sure that your snacks are clean ones!

Let’s Celebrate Your Baby’s Big ONE!

Your baby’s first birthday is such a beautiful milestone, and I’d be honored to help you freeze this moment in time. If you’re looking to book a first birthday photo session in Vancouver WA, I’m here with all the fun, patience, and peek-a-boos to make it amazing.

Ready to book your session? Let’s make some magic (and maybe a little mess) together!