Clients often ask about what age their child should be for professional. And the truth is, there is no “best age”.
That said, there are certain developmental milestones that can make for particularly sweet photo opportunities. So whether you're planning your first session or thinking about updating your family photos, here’s a helpful guide to understanding what to expect and capture at each stage.
Newborn (0-10 days)
Baby’s are considered “newborns” from birth to one month of age. And while, I will happily photograph a baby at any age, I do encourage my clients to bring their newborn in for photos within the first 10 days, when possible.
This is the sleepy, snuggly stage when babies are still curled up and brand new to the world. Sessions during this time are quiet, slow-paced, and just a really nice time to bond with your new baby.
Also, your baby will never be this small again. And you’ll want to remember when they could fit in the palm of your hand. Trust me, they grow up quick! And you don’t want to miss it!
Click on the images below to scroll through the milestones!
New Smiles (3 to 4 Months)
At three to four months of age, babies begin holding their heads up, pushing up during tummy time, and flashing those first real smiles. They’re alert and engaging with the world in a whole new way.
This is when their personality starts shining through. Those gummy grins and bright-eyed expressions are irresistible.
Newborn and 3 month old sessions are best captured in the studio. This allows us to focus on the baby, keep them warm and comfortable, and get some truly special photos for your family.
And I always make time to get images of the baby with their parents and older siblings (when applicable).
Follow this link to read more about how to prepare.
Sitter Session (6 to 9 Months)
Once your baby can sit up unassisted, but not yet crawl, they are ready for a Sitter Session. And Sitter Sessions are SO much fun.
Babies this age is age are very social. They love to engage with me and their parents, clap, grab their toes, and giggle and play peek-a-boo.
Sitting is a huge milestone, and it brings a whole new level of interaction.
It’s the perfect age for joyful, expressive portraits, and honestly is one of my favorite ages to photograph!
First Birthday (12 Months)
Whether they’re crawling, cruising, or taking their first steps, one-year-olds are busy, fun, curious, and sometimes full of a little bit of mischief (which I LOVE).
This is a great milestone to capture. That baby-to-toddler transformation happens quickly. Capturing the one year old phase allows you to capture the last moments of their babyhood, before the move on to being “big kids”.
Pro Tip: Bringing balloons, birthday hats , or even cupcakes to these sessions add an element of fun and make for extra cute pictures!
It not necessary to bring extra props to your one year old’s session. But if you’d like to, you can follow this link for some inspiration.
Toddlers (18 Months to 3 Years)
Children between the ages of eighteen months and three years are considered toddlers.
By this stage, they have mastered an array of new skills—they can stand, walk, run, and climb. They understand language and are learning to express themselves. They comprehend commands and requests, and they most definitely have opinions.
Toddlers are delightful little people—when they get to do what they want. They are naturally curious and adventurous, but they do not appreciate being bossed around (and really, who can blame them?).
I absolutely LOVE working with toddlers. I truly think they are delightful little people!
School Age (5 to 12 Years)
Once a child turns five, they are considered “school-aged” until they reach their teenage years. While there are many milestones between ages 5 and 12, I approach these sessions much like I do when photographing toddlers. The main difference is that older children can follow directions more easily, which allows for more structured posing- which can be really nice!
Things you won’t want to miss with this age group:
When the loose their front teeth (SO cute!!!)
Action photos. I love having school age children jump on the bed at my studio for fun action photos.
Personality quirks. Your children will really come into their own during this part of their childhood. From out fit choices, to sports interests and other hobbies— it’s SO fun to watch them grow into who they will become— and it’s all work capturing!
Teens 12 to 19
The teenage years often get overlooked when it comes to portraits—but they shouldn’t. These are years of tremendous growth, identity-building, and transformation. Whether your child is starting middle school or getting ready to graduate high school, their teen years are filled with moments you’ll want to remember.
Pro Tip: Teens are discovering who they are. Capturing them at this age—especially around milestones like senior year—honors their journey and gives them a confidence-boosting way to see themselves as they are: strong, smart, and on the cusp of adulthood. Allowing them to choose their outfits and take charge of their own photo sessions will result in photos you will absolutely cherish. (And trust me on this one— I’m speaking as the mother of two college aged young adults!)
Milestone Mini Session!!!
Because I feel so strongly about capturing these important milestones for you and your family, I’m hosting my first ever Milestone Mini Sessions!
These fun 15-minute sessions are designed to be fun and fast! Perfect for capturing your child as they are right now!
Each mini is only $175 per session. (Thats $350 off my normal sitting fee!)
A non-refundable deposit of $75 saves your date/time. (The balance of $100 is due at the session)
Digital files and albums will be available for purchase at the time of your session.
Follow this link to book your Mini Session today!
