Tips for a Successful One Year Old Photo Session

Need some tips for a successful one year old photo session?  After you’ve let yourself have a good cry because your baby is turning one, get that session scheduled!  You don’t want to miss having this milestone documented.

You’ve most likely experienced a newborn photo session, and maybe a milestone session or two.  There is one thing that makes the one year old photo session a little different.  They’re mobile.  Not just regular mobile, super mobile.  While they may not be confidently walking yet, they are an experienced (and fast) crawler.

You’ll feel confident going into your little’s one year old session with these tips in mind.

1) Find the right photographer for you.

But, also find a photographer that has experience working with little ones.  The photographers with that experience will most likely have the patience and a few tricks up their sleeve to make it a successful photo experience for all involved. Still need help finding the right photographer? Head here.

2) Follow their lead.

Let’s be honest, one year olds pretty much run the show.  If your photographer has your child sitting on a blanket and the child decides they want to crawl somewhere else, trust that the photographer will make adjustments and move with the child.  So, don’t worry if your child decides they want to head in a new direction and explore.  Some of the best photos are captured by simply following the lead of the child.

3) Keep things simple.

Not much more than a blanket is necessary for a one year old photo session (which your photographer will bring if it’s needed).  You may want to bring a favorite toy or two, but keep it tucked away in your bag because it may not be needed.  Sometimes bringing toys and snacks can backfire.  If the child knows they are around they may focus more on getting the toy or snack than the camera.  Most times your photographer will let you know if it’s time to bring out the toys.

4) Try not to stress.

When your child keeps moving off the blanket, or moving out of the original spot/pose, don’t stress.  I repeat, don’t get stressed… at all. That’s just a one year old being a one year old, and everyone should keep that in mind.  Even if deep down you’re feeling like things aren’t going as smoothly as you had hoped, keep your attitude positive.  Your child will feed off that.

I get it, getting ready for your one year old photo session can be a daunting task so follow these tips for a successful one year old photo session.  It’s so hard to predict how any child is going to react being photographed, let alone a one year old.  As with almost any family or children’s photo shoot, it’s so important to go with the flow and realize that everything won’t go perfectly.  And that’s okay because many times the imperfect moments are the photos you will love the most. 

I’m a Milwaukee photographer (serving the greater Milwaukee area) that specializes in kids and family photography (i.e. has a lot of patience, keeps a laid back feel at sessions, and has a few tricks up my sleeve for littles). If you’re ready to schedule your almost one year old’s photo session don’t hesitate to contact me so we can chat!

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