Time flies when you're having fun (and changing nappies, right?) - and a first birthday is a big milestone. And in my humble opinion - there's no better way to celebrate than with a super fun studio photoshoot! Imagine adorable cake smashes, giggles galore, and heartwarming family moments (all captured by me!).
Here are a few reasons why it’s worth booking in a first birthday studio session with me - plus some ideas and inspiration for how we can style the shoot to add some of your little soon-to-be-toddler’s personality!
Celebrate the milestone and make some memories
Your baby’s first year has been packed with so many “firsts” – first smile, first steps, and now, the first birthday! A photoshoot is the perfect way to capture the magic of this special time. Whether it’s bub’s eyes lighting up at their cake smash or their giggles while playing with their favourite toys, the moments we capture during first birthday studio shoots are pure gold.
Get those family photos updated
Let’s face it, life gets busy, and family photos often fall to the bottom of the to-do list. This photoshoot is a fantastic excuse to get everyone together and update those family portraits. Plus, you get to be part of the fun and create memories as a family. At the end of it, you’ll have a gallery of awesome photos of you and your baby, perfect for framing and popping proudly on the wall. Yes please!
Quality time with the whanau
A first birthday photoshoot is more than just a photo session; it’s an awesome way to spend quality time together. In the middle of all the daily hustle, it’s a chance to pause and have fun as a family. My studio offers a relaxed, stress-free environment where you can laugh, play, and enjoy every minute with your little one, with no worries about getting messy (trust me - my studio floor has had cake smashed into the ground many times!)
Why I love using the studio for first birthday shoots
Professional lighting, a huge array beautiful backdrops, fun props and decorations, and a cosy space where your baby can feel right at home. No need to worry about the weather or chasing perfect lighting - the studio is an easy, warm, homely space (plus I have coffee!)
Fun styling ideas for your shoot
Trying to find some ideas for what you can include in a first birthday shoot? I’ve got you covered - here are some ideas (plus check out some photos of Hugo’s first birthday shoot for some inspiration!)
Cake smash: This is a must, and is one of my most popular requests from clients! Imagine your baby diving into a colourful, delicious cake, crumbs and icing everywhere. It’s messy, it’s hilarious, and it makes for the cutest photos ever. Sometimes they don’t smash it up as much as you’re expecting - but cake photos are always super sweet, even if the cake ends up staying more or less intact.
Bubble bath: After the cake smash, how about a bubble bath setup? Bubbles, rubber duckies, and your baby’s giggles – it’s an instant recipe for adorable photos! (Plus - it’s a great way to get baby clean after smooshing up cake!)
Colourful toys, colourful props: Bright balloons, fun garlands, and your child’s favourite toys add a splash of color and make the shoot even more lively, and are a lovely way to capture memories with their toys of choice!
Cute outfits: It’s a special occasion, so why not dress your baby in a special outfit that shows off their personality! Think pretty dresses, tiny suits, fun costumes, birthday tops or meaningful hand-made pieces. When you’re planning outfits, coordinate family outfits with complementary colors for a cohesive look. Pastels and neutrals always work great!
Personal touches: Bring along items that mean something to your family. A cherished blanket, a special toy, or even a family heirloom can add a personal touch to your photos.
Creative setups, a comfy studio, and a whole lot of love - how much fun is a first birthday shoot! If you have a first birthday coming up (or any milestone for that matter - always a good excuse for a photoshoot), get in touch and we can plan the cutest, sweetest little shoot that you ever did see!
