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Capturing Joyful Moments: A Chicago Family Photography Session for Frankie's First Birthday


I was thrilled when Megan contacted me for a studio session to celebrate her daughter Frankie’s first birthday! Having previously met the adorable Brown family during a fall photo shoot at Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan for Frankie's 6-month celebration, I knew these studio photos would be perfect. Studio sessions are ideal for young families for many reasons.


Why are studio sessions perfect for young families?


Choosing to capture family milestones, especially for young children, can be challenging, but a studio photography session offers many unique benefits. In a studio, you have a controlled environment that minimizes distractions and allows for meaningful interactions. There are numerous backdrop options tailored to your family’s personality, enhancing the overall experience.


For Frankie's session, the decision to use a studio proved ideal. The natural light from the Wicker Park studio we used created soft, warm images, encapsulating the quality of joy in each moment. This control was particularly beneficial for a first birthday shoot, fostering an intimate atmosphere and showcasing genuine moments and loving exchanges among family members.


Preparing for the Big Day


Preparation is essential for a successful photography session, especially with young children. For Frankie's special day, his family planned each detail with care. They selected the perfect outfits and shared their vision with me for what they wanted these photos to look like. A critical part of the preparation involved a pre-shoot discussion with the photographer. By sharing their vision and preferences, Frankie's family ensured that their desires were met, allowing me to capture sincere emotions and treasured interactions throughout the session.



Tips for Parents: Making the Most of Your Family Photography Session


If you're considering a photography session to capture your child’s special moments, here are some tips to ensure a successful experience:


  1. Choose the Right Time of Day: Schedule the session at a time when your child is typically cheerful and alert. Avoid timing it with naps or meals to ensure they are in the best mood.


  2. Bring Comfort Items: If your child has a favorite toy or blanket, consider bringing it along. Familiar items can help them feel more secure during the shoot.


  3. Be Flexible: Understand that young children may not always cooperate as planned. Some of the most memorable photographs come from spontaneous moments.


  4. Communicate with Your Photographer: Share your ideas and preferences with your photographer to ensure the session aligns with your vision.


  5. Relax and Enjoy: The best moments often come when families are calm and enjoying the experience. Authentic moments shine through when everyone is relaxed and happy.


    This session couldn't have gone better and I am so excited to share these photos with everyone!



Baby in denim outfit stands smiling beside a wooden stool on a wooden floor, wearing a white bow headband in a neutral room.

Smiling baby in denim overalls stands on a wooden chair, supported by two adults kneeling on a wood floor; warm, joyful setting.

Baby in denim romper and white bow crawls on wooden floor, smiling. Neutral wall in background enhances cheerful mood.

Woman holds a smiling baby wearing denim overalls and a bow. Both wear light colors. Neutral background, joyful mood.

A smiling baby in a denim outfit stands on a chair, supported by two adults. The setting is indoors with a wooden floor and neutral wall.

Baby in denim outfit with white bow stands smiling beside wooden stool on light wooden floor. Neutral background.

A smiling couple poses with a baby in denim overalls, kneeling on a wooden floor against a beige wall. Casual, cozy, and cheerful atmosphere.

Man kneeling on wooden floor holding smiling baby in denim overalls and headband, in a bright room with white walls.

Baby in a denim outfit and headband sits smiling on a wooden chair against a white textured wall and wooden floor.

A baby in denim crawls on a wooden floor toward a smiling couple kneeling. Neutral background, warm and joyful mood.

A woman sits on a wooden chair, holding and smiling at a baby in denim. Both appear happy in a bright room with a light wooden floor.

Baby in denim outfit and bow headband stands holding a wooden stool on a wooden floor, looking joyful in a simple room with beige walls.

Smiling couple holding a baby in denim overalls and a bow. Neutral-toned outfits; light wooden floor and plain white wall background.

Baby in denim overalls stands by a wooden stool on a wooden floor. The baby wears a bow headband and looks happy against a plain wall.

Baby in a denim outfit and headband claps happily beside a wooden stool on a wooden floor. Light, minimalist background enhances warmth.

Baby in blue denim outfit with a white bow stands holding a wooden stool on a light wooden floor, smiling in a neutral setting.

 
 
 

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Morgan Reed is a Chicago based wedding and portrait photographer. Capturing weddings, elopements, and portraits in Chicago and Dallas, as well as destinations weddings worldwide.

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