First Birthday Photoshoot
What to Expect at Your Baby’s First Birthday Photoshoot
Planning your baby’s first birthday photoshoot is an exciting milestone — and at Misty Dawn Photography, we’re here to make it as magical (and stress-free) as possible. Whether you envision a full cake smash, a dreamy themed setup, or heirloom portraits to remember this once-in-a-lifetime moment, we’ll help you every step of the way.
A Fairy First Birthday: One Family’s Story
This recent session featured a soft and whimsical Fairy First Birthday theme. Baby girl arrived feeling exhausted — her mama had already shared that she hadn’t napped before the session and was having a fussy day. But through patience, gentle transitions, and lots of cuddles from mom, we created a gallery her family absolutely adores.
“Misty, I can’t thank you enough for the pictures, how they turned out, how patient you both were. Seriously! I had a vision for her pictures and you brought it to life! Thank you sooooooo much!!!!! We are just in love with the pictures!!!!!!!”
This is what a first birthday session is all about — creating something meaningful, even when real life happens.
What Happens During a First Birthday Session?
Every one-year-old is different, so I design each first birthday photoshoot around your baby’s comfort and your vision. Here’s what you can expect:
- A custom-designed set: Whether you choose a themed setup like our Fairy First Birthday or a classic, timeless look, I’ll prepare the studio with everything styled and ready to go.
- Wardrobe & accessories: You’ll have access to the studio wardrobe and styling support, or you’re welcome to bring your own birthday outfit. I’ll offer guidance based on what photographs best!
- Cake smash: Many families includes a cake smash for fun and messy memories — and we always follow your baby’s cues. We include the cake so you can enjoy a seamless session.
- Splash add-on: After the cake, a tiny tub session with warm water gives us more smiles and adorable cleanup shots.
- Full reveal & product selection: After your session, you’ll enjoy a full gallery reveal video and select the products that tell your baby’s story best — from albums to fine art prints.
FAQ: First Birthday Photoshoot at Misty Dawn Photography
Yes! I include a small, photo-ready cake in every cake smash session so you can show up stress-free. If your baby has allergies or specific dietary needs, I’m happy to coordinate with you in advance.
Totally normal — many one-year-olds are overwhelmed by the texture or attention. I always start with portraits and follow your baby’s lead. We can pivot quickly to bubbles, toys, or a splash session for more smiles.
Absolutely. I design each set around your vision. Whether you send Pinterest ideas or just describe a color palette, I’ll create a one-of-a-kind look that brings it to life.
You can bring a favorite outfit or use one of the pieces in our baby wardrobe collection. I’ll guide you on what photographs best and fits your theme.
Milestone sessions are typically baby-focused, because babies have a short attention span. If you would like to have family pictures and sibling pictures, I suggest booking a family session.
Themes, Styling, and Flexibility
When it comes to planning your baby’s first birthday photoshoot, we love helping you bring your vision to life with a custom-designed theme. Over the years, we’ve created everything from whimsical fairy gardens to bold jungle adventures to classic balloon-and-confetti setups — all based on inspiration images parents share with us.
Instead of offering a limited list of backdrops, we tailor each set to match your style, color preferences, and story. Many clients send Pinterest boards or favorite photos, and we use those as a springboard to create something truly unique. If you’re unsure what theme to choose, I’ll walk you through popular ideas, past favorites, and design options until we find the perfect fit for your little one.
Even Fussy Babies Deserve Beautiful Photos
One of the most common concerns I hear is: “What if my baby is having an off day?” And the truth is — many are! The first year is a big milestone, and babies are unpredictable.
The key is working with a photographer who creates a calm space and allows flexibility in the process. I always prioritize your baby’s needs, and I’ve built my studio experience to be baby-led from start to finish. That’s how we turn even the wobbliest mornings into artwork worth treasuring.
“We used Misty for my daughter’s 1 year old pictures and we were floored away by outcome! I was very nervous going in to the shoot the day of because my daughter didn’t get her morning nap and she was super fussy before we made it to Misty. She also had a few little tantrums thanks to her no nap. But Misty was so patient and calm and let her take breaks. She never seemed annoyed by it. The quality of the pictures are superb and I am so thankful we used Misty!“
Dominique Holder
Ready to Plan Your Baby’s First Birthday Photoshoot?
Whether you already have a vision or need help pulling it together, I’m here to bring your ideas to life. From dreamy backdrops to heirloom albums, we’ll make sure this moment is remembered forever.
Explore the Baby Plan to see how your baby’s first year can be documented beautifully from beginning to end.
Related Posts:
- Cake Smash Photoshoot – Jungle Theme in Birmingham
- Sitter Session Photos: Why 6–9 Months is Pure Magic
- Why Newborn Portraits Are So Important
External Resource: CDC – Your Baby at 12 Months
I am married to the love of my life who has recently retired from the Army. We are back “home” after being away for 21 years. We have 3 young boys and 1 daughter who is pursuing her college career. As a photographer, I specialize in the newborns and maternity portraits. I just love the amazing process of pregnancy and then having that sweet, new bundle of joy to love. Capturing all that is so important and I feel so blessed to be a part of this special time in my client’s lives.
Be the first to comment