The First Year | Photography to document your baby's first year of life

And just like that, they are here! The little bundle of joy you have been patiently waiting on has arrived. You're here in the moment, taking in and memorizing every little aspect of this new tiny human. You may wonder how and when is the best time to document their little life - and I have answers!

Hey there, I'm Mackenzie. I've been photographing babies and their families in the Bolivar, Missouri area for over 6 years! Over the years, I've learned a thing or two from being in the business and from raising two wild boys of my own, and am happy to offer some suggestions on the best times to get your baby professionally photographed!

I think the first time we document their little life really starts during your maternity session. I encourage every mama to have a maternity session because, while you may not feel your best, what you're doing in incredible. What you give to your child is unselfish and beautiful and deserves to be celebrated! I know that I, as a child, would love to see photos of my mother dressed in a beautiful gown when she was pregnant with me, but unfortunately, it wasn't really a thing back then.

Now, let's talk about after baby is born! I'll be using sweet little Kassidy as an example! She came to see me every 3 months, from newborn to her first birthday!

NEWBORN

Once your baby has arrived, newborn photos are must on the list! Whether you choose to have your session in the comfort of your own home or in the studio is completely up to you! Newborn sessions are so important becasue of a couple of reasons... first, babies change SO fast. The next reason I find them so important is becasue this is an exhausting time for most parents... and these memories that you don't want to forget get really fuzzy really fast.

3 MONTHS

Next on the list is the 3 month session! By 3 months, your little one has probably changed a lot! This session is so sweet because your baby is just starting to interact with the world. They start giving out smiles and make all sorts of expressive faces... without roaming too much yet!

6 MONTHS

One of my favorite milestones is 6 months!

Just like that, half a year has gone by!

Your baby is all about their hands, toes, and everything interesting at this stage! They roll and squirm around, and are so proud of themselves! Giving them a flower or little stuffy to hold, getting little giggles out of them - ugh, it's all enough to make your heart flutter!

9 MONTHS

By 9 months we are likely crawling about or rocking on their hands and knees, interested in textures, and full of wonder! Some littles even pull up on little chairs and props at this age! I feel like this is the time your baby starts looking a little less like a baby. They are so proud of everything they do - there is a lot of clapping that goes on at this milestone! It's such a sweet time to capture. The last one before the BIG ONE.

12 MONTHS | First Birthday

Another must is your baby's first birthday session. By now, your baby has a full blown personality and they are ready to let it shine! Whether you do a simple first birthday session or one complete with a cake smash and milk bath - it is such a special moment in time to capture. You survived a whole year of raising this little person - and you did amazing - I mean, just look at them thriving!

Whether you choose a couple of these sessions or all of them - your future self will be so thankful for these treasured images! ...and grandparents won't complain either!

If you have any questions or are wondering when might be the best time for your little one to get photos done, please feel free to reach out at Mackenzieslackphotography@gmail.com

With love,

Mackenzie