Tips For Successful Milestone Photography Sessions
Are you getting ready for your next Milestone photography session? Do you have questions about it? Here at Life with a View Studio, we love watching your family grow and being able to capture those memories for you! Before every milestone session, I like to give my clients a few tips on making the most of their experience. Sometimes, it can be stressful to get your family ready for pictures, so sit back and relax while I give you some helpful tips on ensuring an excellent session for everybody.
Question # 1: When should I book my milestone session?
Typically milestone sessions take place at 6-9 months or when your baby is sitting up on their own. Of course, your baby doesn’t have to be this exact age. This is just a guideline that will help you choose your dates. Milestone sessions are my favorite!
I recommend scheduling your session 3-6 weeks before you’d like to have it. That way, I can ensure a spot in my schedule.
Question # 2: What time of day should I schedule my session?
Make sure you include nap time! They are necessary for my house, and we have planned events around them. I realize not every baby sticks to a schedule, but do keep in mind when your baby typically rests and when your baby is generally happy. Some babies love mornings, some love mid-afternoons, etc. Take a minute to think about when your baby is most happy, and let’s try to schedule your session at that time of day.
It’s also very important that your baby be well fed before a session. No one wants to try and get a hungry baby to smile ;)
Question # 3: Should we do an outdoor session or studio session?
In my experience, I think little babies do best in the studio. However, that’s not set in stone. If your baby is sitting well on his/her own, crawling and doesn’t mind grass, then we can certainly do some photos outdoors. Being outdoors exploring is a great way to keep their interest peaked. But a studio session can offer a variety of backgrounds and setups. Obviously weather comes into play, so keep that in mind as well. If you want to get a few family shots during your milestone session, then I recommend doing it outside so there is enough room for everyone to move around and enjoy themselves easily.
Question # 4: Should my family be part of my milestone session?
If the family is a part of the photography session and weather permitting, outdoors could be a good option. However, if it's just the baby in the session, I recommend doing it in the studio to access various props and backgrounds. I can work with your vision for your milestone session, so just let me know!
Question # 5: My baby has anxiety with strangers – what should I do?
I’ve found that most milestone baby’s can sometimes have a bit of stranger anxiety. And even those who don’t can sometimes be fearful of coming to a new place and meeting a new person. I am more than happy to take some time and let the baby acclimate. Some just need a few minutes to check out their surroundings, and others need 15-20 minutes to sit on the floor and play before they relax. And others are on the go from the moment they arrive, so we work fast! Whatever your baby needs, I am happy to oblige.
Question # 6: What should my baby wear?
This is one I hear a lot. And there are so many answers, so I think it might be easier to just list out some basic suggestions:
Avoid neon/bright colors near the face (i.e., bright orange shirt, neon stripes, etc.) as these shades reflect the face.
Make sure baby’s clothes fit snug/well — clothes that are too big will look sloppy and ride up over their face.
Layers can be adorable but can also overwhelm a small child (before they’re able to sit up/stand) so keep that in mind when adding thick sweaters or a puffy vest. Try everything on your child first before bringing them in for your session.
Feel free to show their (and your) style. Patterns and colors are great if you like them. If not, feel free to keep it simple. Baby’s under one year are also super cute naked or partially naked if you are interested in that look.
Our studio offers a growing client closest to children of many ages that you can borrow from for your session. I have some adorable rompers, dresses, pants, etc. If you would like to see what options I have for your child in the client closet, feel free to check out the Girls or Boys Client Closet Highlights found on the Life with a View Studio’s Instagram.