ash is always adorable. I will never argue with a cute backdrop, a sweet little cake, and a baby who may or may not understand why everyone suddenly wants them to destroy dessert.
I also love a simple studio milestone session, especially when the weather is not cooperating or parents want something clean, cozy, and easy.
But an outdoor first birthday photoshoot has its own kind of magic.
Being outside gives babies room to move, explore, clap, crawl, stand, snuggle, and do all the funny little things one year olds do. It also gives us a chance to include family photos, sibling portraits, and milestone images in a way that feels natural and relaxed.
These recent first birthday sessions took place at a farm in Madison, CT, and they are a perfect example of how flexible outdoor milestone sessions can be.
One family chose to keep the session simple with first birthday portraits and family photos. No cake, no big setup, just their baby at one year old with the people who love them most.
Another family wanted to include a small cake smash outdoors, along with sibling photos and family portraits. It gave them a little bit of everything: sweet baby portraits, real family moments, and the classic first birthday cake smash without needing to be in the studio.
Both sessions were beautiful. And that is the nice thing about first birthday photos. There really is not one right way to do them.
You can keep it simple with a milestone session.
You can bring a cake.
You can include siblings.
You can make it a full family session.
You can skip the props completely and let your baby be the whole point.
For outdoor first birthday sessions, I usually recommend simple outfits, soft colors, and a location that gives us pretty light and room to move. Babies at this age are busy, curious, and not exactly interested in sitting still for long, so the session works best when we let them explore a little.
And yes, if you love the idea of balloons or a small setup, we can absolutely talk about that too.
My husband may not be as enthusiastic about balloon garlands as I am, mostly because he has been recruited for balloon duty more than once, but I still love them when they fit the session.
Whether you want a full cake smash, simple milestone portraits, or a relaxed outdoor family session to celebrate your baby turning one, this is such a sweet age to capture.
Your baby has changed so much since their newborn photos, and that first birthday is the perfect time to pause and document who they are right now.
If you are looking for first birthday photos in Madison, CT or along the Connecticut shoreline, I would love to help you plan a session that feels like your family. Click here to learn more and view the portfolio.
First Birthday Photoshoot FAQ
Do first birthday photos have to include a cake smash?
No. A cake smash is a fun option, but it is not required. Many families choose simple milestone portraits, family photos, sibling images, or a mix of everything.
Can we do a first birthday photoshoot outdoors?
Absolutely yes! Outdoor first birthday sessions are a great option, especially in summer or early Fall. They give babies room to move and allow for a more relaxed mix of baby portraits and family photos.
What should my baby wear for first birthday photos?
Simple outfits photograph best. Soft colors, classic textures, rompers, dresses, overalls, and neutral pieces all work well. Try to avoid busy logos or anything too stiff since one year olds need to move comfortably.
Can siblings and parents be included?
Yes – first birthday sessions are a great time to update family photos and include siblings. We can focus mostly on the baby while still capturing a few family and sibling portraits.
OUTDOOR FIRST BIRTHDAY PHOTOSHOOT
Want to capture your sweet baby with 1st birthday milestone photography and cakesmash photography on-location? Not sure where to begin?
Check out my post on Planning a First Birthday Photography Session.
First birthdays are such a special occasion for your baby! Weather you choose to capture this milestone with simple photography, smashcake photography or family portraits, you will remember these moments forever!
Catherine King Photography is an on-location, natural light, lifestyle and portrait photographer, specializing in Maternity, Newborn, Baby, Children, and Family Photography in Connecticut. In addition to gorgeous outdoor locations, Catherine King has a beautiful photography studio in Madison, Connecticut which is best suited for Newborn, Maternity, and Milestone photography session. Would you like a virtual tour of the gorgeous photography studio? Click here.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
An award winning photographer, Catherine King will work with you and your family to create a beautiful newborn photography session and overall experience.
Want to learn a little more? Check out some recent Smashcake Photo session, or Children Photography sessions. Ready to pick your package and book your own family session? Fill out this brief contact form.
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