Following a baby through her first year of life is such a rewarding experiences as a photographer. From the tender newborn moments to the joyful chaos of a first birthday, each session tells a piece of the story that families will cherish forever. Baby Elizabeth was one of those special little ones I had the privilege to follow with first year photography, and today, I’m excited to share her journey with you.
The Beginning: Lifestyle Newborn Session
My journey with Elizabeth began with at her lifestyle newborn session in the comfort of her family’s home. There’s something so intimate and tender about photographing a newborn in her own space, surrounded by the warmth and love of her new family. Elizabeth was just days old, and we captured so many precious first moments—the way her parents gazed at her with awe, the tiny details of her fingers and toes, and the peaceful way she slept. It was a beautiful start to documenting her first year.
Sitter Session: Capturing the Transition
When Elizabeth was about 7 months old, she was ready for her sitter session. This stage is always exciting because babies are starting to show more of their personality, but it also comes with its challenges. Elizabeth wasn’t quite sitting securely on her own yet, so we had to get creative. We did some tummy time photos and propped her in a bucket for added security. Even though she wasn’t in the happiest mood during the session, you’d never know it from the photos. Her serious little expressions were endearing, and the images captured a sweet, reflective side of her that added depth to her growing collection of memories.
The Big Day: Elizabeth’s First Birthday Session
Fast forward to Elizabeth’s first birthday, and it was time for the final session of her first-year journey. We scheduled the session on her actual birthday, making the celebration even more genuine. At age one, Elizabeth was walking—well, more like running—and full of energy. She was more interested in the balloon decorations than the cake, which made for some fun and spontaneous photos.
To help capture her attention and keep her in one place long enough to get some shots, I pulled out a few tricks. My spiderweb chair, which is a little tricky to get out of, became our saving grace. We also used a metal basket to contain her curiosity, and the real hit of the session were the white letters that spelled out “ONE.” Elizabeth was fascinated by them, and they added a playful touch to her birthday photos.
Reflecting on the Year
Looking back on Elizabeth’s first year, it’s incredible to see how much she’s grown and changed. From the sleepy newborn in her parents’ arms to the busy, curious toddler celebrating her first birthday, each session captured a different milestone in her journey. This is what makes following a baby through her first year so special—it’s about more than just the photos; it’s about preserving the moments that pass by all too quickly.
Why First Year Photography Matters
For parents considering first year photography for their little one, know that these sessions are more than just a way to document growth. They’re a way to capture the essence of your baby’s first year—her personality, the love surrounding her, and the milestones that come and go in the blink of an eye. Whether it’s a lifestyle newborn session, a sitter session, or that all-important first birthday, each one is a chapter in your family’s story.
I’m grateful to have been a part of Elizabeth’s first year photography and to have created memories that her family will cherish for a lifetime. As is always the case when I complete a first year journey, I feel contemplative and nostalgic about the quick passage of time. If you’re looking to capture your baby’s first year in a way that’s personal, meaningful, and beautifully real, I’d love to be part of your journey too.
Liz Viernes Photography is based near Olney, MD, and specializes in maternity, fresh 48, posed and lifestyle newborns and first year milestone portraits.
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