When's best to book your babies 1st birthday shoot?


This is your quick guide to capturing this joyful milestone moments of them turning 1 — but make it stress-free!


We can all agree the first year goes by in a blur, doesn’t it? One minute you’re welcoming and cuddling your tiny newborn, and the next, they’re on the move/starting to talk, full of personality and about to turn ONE.

If you’re thinking about booking a 1st birthday photoshoot (and you absolutely should — it’s such a special milestone to celebrate), you might be wondering when is the right time to book.


I have put together everything you may need to know — with no pressure, no fluff, and plenty of love.

A small child wearing a pale yellow fabric "one" crown and light coloured clothing sits on a grey surface during birthday shoot in Nottingha
Birthday photography Nottingham baby close up tiny hands detail shot
A baby in a white knit sweater looks back over their shoulder while sitting on a light grey surface during birthday shoot in Nottingham

So… when should I enquire about a 1st birthday session?


The best time to enquire about your babies 1st birthday shoot is around 3-4 months before your little one’s big day. So if their birthday is in November, for example, you’ll want to get in touch in August or early September to get a date in the diary.

That gives us plenty of time to plan your session, chat through ideas, and make sure you get a slot around the time that works best for you — whether you want photos in time for party invites, a gallery to display on the big day, or just a fun celebration at the end of their first year.


When should the actual shoot take place?


Most families choose to do their 1st birthday session at least 1 some times 2 months before their baby turns one — especially if you'd like the images ready in time for their birthday party, invitations, or keepsake albums.

But you can absolutely book the session on or just after their birthday if you'd prefer to celebrate on the day or keep it low-key and natural. There’s no right or wrong — it’s all about what feels good for you.


I always advise a lead time of final galleries of 3-4 weeks so best to book with that in mind if you are wanting the photos back before their big birthday. Also sometimes it's best to capture photos just before they are on the move to much as it does make it a little easier capturing them before they are completely running around.

A baby wearing a white knit sweater smiles sitting on a light grey rug in front of white background, during birthday shoot in Nottingham
Show a baby wearing a brown knit sweater sitting in a wicker chair against a white background during birthday shoot in Nottingham
Baby in white onesie sits among white "One" letters during birthday shoot in Nottingham

What’s included in a 1st birthday session?


Every shoot is a little different, but my sessions are always designed to feel relaxed, natural and full of love. Whether we’re in my cosy home studio in Nottingham or out and about on an outdoor session we’ll focus on connection, play, and those wonderful little expressions that make your baby them.

You can choose:

A natural portrait session — simple setups, soft tones, timeless images

A cake smash (if that’s your thing!) — messy, silly, and great fun

A mix of baby + family shots — because you’re part of the celebration too

A cake smash and bubble bath- A fab way of cleaning up after the sticky cake

And don’t worry — I’ll guide you through it all so you can just enjoy the moment.


Click here to view more examples of my birthday sessions


I also have a small selection of neutral and birthday themes outfits we can use during your shoot.


Do you offer outdoor birthday sessions too?


Yes! If the weather’s on our side, outdoor family sessions in Nottingham or Derbyshire are a gorgeous option — especially if you love natural light, freedom to play, and letting your little one explore.

Spring and autumn are especially beautiful outdoors, so if you’re thinking ahead, now’s a great time to chat about availability. Summer is great as well as all the flowers are in bloom but be mindful of warmer weather (although the British weather is always unpredictable). Check out some of my favourite family outdoor locations here


How far in advance should I book?


Since I only take on a limited number of sessions each month to keep things calm and flexible, it’s best to book 1-2 months in advance — earlier if you're thinking of a weekend slot or a busier season like Christmas/Winer.

If you’re a last-minute planner, though — please don’t worry! Pop me a message anyway and I’ll always do my best to squeeze you in.

Baby wearing cream coloured sweater showing playful expressions against white background during birthday shoot in Nottingham
Baby with bright blonde hair and striking blue eyes during birthday shoot at cost home photography studio in Nottingham
A joyful baby wearing a cozy white knit sweater cardigan looks up with an excited expression during birthday shoot in Nottingham

Ready to celebrate with photos full of fun, love and personality?


Whether you’re planning a simple shoot to mark the moment or a full-on cake smash to celebrate your little one turning one, I’d love to help you create something special from my cosy home studio in Nottingham or during an outdoor shoot in Nottingham and Derby.


Let’s pencil something in — just click below or drop me a DM on Instagram


I can’t wait to help you celebrate your baby’s very first birthday in the most joyful, meaningful way.