When to Book Baby Milestone Photos | Lansing MI
Your baby's first year changes faster than you expect. One month they're being passed around from lap to lap, and the next they're sitting up, grabbing for everything, and laughing at nothing. Milestone photos let you capture those stages, but timing matters. Here's how to choose the right age and when to book.
The best ages for milestone photos
Milestone sessions can be scheduled anytime between 3 and 12 months. Here's what each stage looks like:
3 months: Babies are lifting their heads, discovering their hands, and giving those first real smiles. It's a sweet stage for soft, simple portraits.
6 months: This is the most popular age, and for good reason. Many babies are sitting up (or close to it) and full of personality, which makes for bright, expressive images.
9 months: Babies are crawling, pulling up, and getting curious about everything. Sessions get playful, and you get genuine moments instead of posed ones.
12 months: A first birthday is a milestone worth celebrating. Many families add a cake smash, and I provide the cake and a coordinating backdrop.
Which age should you choose?
If you're choosing just one session, 6 months is hard to beat. If you'd rather celebrate the first birthday, 12 months is the one. There's no wrong choice, and I'm happy to help you decide.
How far ahead should you book?
My calendar is typically open at least six months ahead, and sessions do fill up. If you have a specific milestone in mind, especially 6 months or first birthday, I recommend booking early. Booking a few months before your baby reaches that age gives you the best choice of dates.
A few tips to prepare
Small things make a big difference. Schedule around your baby's best time of day, usually after a nap and a feed. Wipe drool and runny noses before you arrive, trim nails, and bring a familiar toy if your baby is shy. Save snacks for after the session, since food during photos often means chewing faces and drool. Once you book, I'll send outfit guidance, and I love when parents send photos of outfits so I can coordinate.
What if your child is past 12 months?
My Laingsburg studio is designed for babies up to one year old. Toddlers and older children are more comfortable at The Lansing Studio, which has more room to move. See family session details →
Ready to plan your milestone session?
I create simple, timeless milestone portraits for families across Lansing and Mid-Michigan. You can see session details, pricing, and add-ons on my milestone photography page, or read the Milestone Session FAQ for answers to common questions.