If you know me, you’ll know I’m not one for standing still – my business is always evolving because you (my lovely clients) are always inspiring me. Every session I do teaches me something new, and one thing I’ve noticed over and over again is that when your baby’s first birthday rolls around, you don’t just want a picture of them sat on their own… you want to be in those photos too.
Honestly, I don’t blame you – that first year goes by in an absolute blur, and you deserve to see yourself in those memories as much as your baby does. That’s why my Birthday Milestone Sessions have had a little glow-up.
Why the Big Change?
Over the years, my style has naturally simplified – I’ve fallen head over heels for neutral tones, soft textures, and natural light that lets your baby be the star of the show. But these changes haven’t just come from me evolving as a photographer – they’ve come from listening to you.
So many of you have asked, “Can we get a quick family photo while we’re here?” And every time I hear that, it makes complete sense. Your baby turning one is a milestone for you too. You made it through that whirlwind first year, and that deserves to be celebrated!
Now, every Birthday Milestone Session includes space for family portraits – not just a rushed snap at the end, but a proper part of the session, capturing those real, snuggly, love-filled moments together.
Goodbye Busy Backdrops, Hello Timeless Style
If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know I used to have a stash of colourful backdrops and props for birthday shoots. But over time, I realised they weren’t really me – and they didn’t reflect the natural, connection-filled style of my photography.
So, the backdrops are officially gone! Instead, I’ve created a clean, simple space with beautiful textures and neutral tones that let your little one (and your family!) shine. It’s a shift that’s been such a breath of fresh air – less clutter, less distraction, and photos that feel truly timeless.
Your Options: Cake, Fake, or Simple & Timeless
I get it – not everyone loves a cake smash, and that’s okay! That’s why I’ve built in flexibility so you can choose what suits you best:
Cake Smash – The classic. Your little one, their first cake, and all the glorious mess that comes with it.
Fake Smash – Same gorgeous styling, no sugar rush. Perfect for parents who want the “look” without the clean-up.
Simple Milestone Session – Stripped-back, timeless, and all about capturing your baby just as they are.
Whichever you choose, we’ll split the session in two: part portraits of your baby, part family time. Because honestly? You all deserve to be in the frame.
Why Book a Birthday Milestone Session?
Because this isn’t just a photoshoot. This is about freezing a moment in time – that magical, messy, heart-full stage where your baby is growing faster than you can keep up.
It’s about:
- Celebrating you just as much as them (you’ve smashed that first year, and you deserve to be in the pictures!)
- Creating a relaxed, happy experience where you don’t have to lift a finger – I’ve got everything covered.
- Giving you a gallery that feels like you, not a Pinterest board of random props and colours.
- Having photos that will be treasured, not just posted.
So if your little one’s first (or second!) birthday is creeping up, I’d love to welcome you into my cosy studio, pop the kettle on (or coffee) and let me capture some magic for you. Whether it’s cake-covered giggles or snuggly family moments, these sessions are all about celebrating your story.
Lottie x
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