First Birthday Photography in Surrey
Surrey & The Lower Mainland
Your baby’s first birthday is a great time to update their photographs. By twelve months, babies have developed their own personalities, expressions, and favourite ways of moving around.
I offer first birthday photography sessions in my Surrey studio, with a focus on natural expressions, simple backgrounds, and comfortable setups. You can choose individual portraits of your baby, include family photographs, or add a cake smash to celebrate the occasion.
What to Expect During a First Birthday Photo Session
First birthday sessions are relaxed and usually take around 45 min to 1 hour, depending on your baby’s mood and the type of photographs we are creating.
I allow time for your child to become familiar with the studio before we begin. We can take breaks for snacks, cuddles, or outfit changes whenever needed.
There is no need to worry if your baby is shy or doesn’t smile immediately. I have many years of experience photographing babies and know how to work with different personalities.
First Birthday Photos with Parents and Siblings
Your baby’s first birthday is also a good opportunity to update your family photographs.
Parents are welcome to join the session, and we can include older siblings as well. I recommend simple, coordinated clothing in neutral or complementary colours so the photographs look natural together.
Family portraits are usually taken before the individual birthday photographs, while everyone is still fresh and comfortable.
Cake Smash Photography in Surrey
If you would like to include a cake smash, we can add it to your baby’s first birthday session.
I recommend starting with regular portraits while your baby is clean and comfortable. We can then introduce the cake and let your child explore it at their own pace.
Some babies love touching and tasting the cake, while others are more interested in looking at it. Both reactions are completely normal, and there is no need to encourage your child to make a mess.
Cake smash photography is optional. You can book a first birthday session without a cake and still have a complete collection of beautiful portraits.
What to Expect During Your Baby's First Birthday Photoshoot
First birthday photography sessions usually last no longer than one hour. At this age, babies have a limited attention span, and longer sessions don’t necessarily mean better photographs.
I recommend scheduling your session shortly after your baby’s nap, when they are well-rested, happy, and ready to explore.
We take a relaxed approach, with time for short breaks, cuddles, or snacks whenever needed. I don’t expect your baby to sit still or smile on command.
During a typical session, we can usually photograph your baby in two or three different outfits, depending on how comfortable and cooperative they are.
First Birthday Decorations and Studio Props
My Surrey photography studio has a selection of simple props and decorations suitable for first birthday sessions.
I provide balloons and white decorative letters spelling ONE, so you don’t need to purchase a complete birthday setup.
If you would like to personalize the photographs, you are welcome to bring a number one balloon or another small decoration that matches your preferred colours.
I prefer keeping birthday setups simple, with the focus on your baby rather than large or elaborate decorations.
When Should You Book Your First Birthday Session?
I recommend booking your first birthday photography session a few weeks in advance, especially if you would like to use the photographs for birthday invitations, decorations, or a celebration. The session doesn’t have to take place on your baby’s actual birthday. We can schedule it before or shortly after they turn one. If you are planning a cake smash, please mention it when booking so I can allow for the appropriate setup and cleanup.
First Birthday and Cake Smash Photo Gallery
What to Expect During Your Baby's First Birthday Photoshoot
A little preparation can make a big difference during a session with a one-year-old.
Please bring your baby’s favourite snacks and a drink. Small snacks are often helpful for keeping babies comfortable, redirecting their attention, or encouraging them to stay in one place for a few moments.
A favourite toy can also be useful, especially if your baby is shy or needs a little time to feel comfortable in a new environment.
One important tip: try not to give your baby a phone during the session. I have seen situations where a baby becomes so interested in the phone that taking it away causes tears and makes it difficult to continue photographing.
It’s much easier to keep phones out of sight and use toys, snacks, and interaction instead.
If you are planning a cake smash, please bring your cake, a change of clothes, and anything else your baby may need afterward.
What to Wear for a First Birthday Photoshoot
I have a collection of baby outfits available in the studio, including simple knitted rompers, dresses, and other clothing suitable for one-year-old portraits.
However, I always encourage parents to bring something of their own as well. An outfit you carefully chose for your baby, or one given as a special gift, can have much more personal meaning than anything from a studio wardrobe.
Simple colours and comfortable clothing usually work best. You don’t need to bring a large selection of outfits — one or two personal favourites are enough.
For family photographs, I recommend coordinating colours rather than wearing identical outfits. Neutral and soft tones work particularly well with my studio backgrounds.