Your baby’s first year is full of change—every few months, a new milestone, a new expression, a new part of their personality shines through. As a parent, you see it daily, but these fleeting stages are often gone before you’ve even had time to catch your breath. That’s why milestone photography is so special—it documents your baby’s growth in a way you can return to for decades.
Here’s a guide to what makes 3, 6, 9, and 12 months so magical in front of the camera.
3 Months – Personality Emerging
At three months, your baby is beginning to connect more deeply with the world. Their little smiles are becoming intentional, eye contact is strong, and tummy time is full of determination. This stage is about capturing:
- Bright eyes and social smiles
- Tiny fingers clutching yours
- The sweetness of being held in your arms
- Early curiosity during tummy time
These portraits are gentle and full of wonder, showing just how small your little one still is while hinting at all that’s to come.
6 Months – Sitting Up & Engaging
By six months, your baby is often sitting with support (or all on their own!) and their personality is in full bloom. This is the perfect age to document:
- Big gummy grins and contagious giggles
- Reaching for toys or toes
- Propped-up poses that show off new skills
- Expressions that change in an instant
Six-month sessions are playful and interactive, highlighting your baby’s joy in exploring their world.
9 Months – On the Move
At nine months, babies are usually crawling, scooting, or pulling themselves up. It’s such an exciting stage because they’re on the go! A session at this age captures:
- First attempts at crawling or standing
- Mischievous, curious glances
- Clapping hands, waving, or other new tricks
- Playful energy as they explore their surroundings
These photos are full of movement and discovery—little glimpses of your baby’s growing independence.
12 Months – The Big One
The first birthday is a milestone worth celebrating in a big way. At this stage, your baby might be walking (or close to it!) and has an entire year of growth and personality to show off. A 12-month session often includes:
- First steps or early wobbles
- Cake smash or a more timeless, simple celebration
- Laughs, claps, and joyful energy
- Family snuggles marking the end of the baby year
This session beautifully wraps up the story of the first year—a collection of images that celebrate just how far your little one has come.
Creating Your Baby’s First Year Story
Each milestone session tells part of your baby’s story, but together, they create a priceless heirloom that can be held so perfectly in an album. From sleepy newborn days to first birthday giggles, these photographs weave a timeline of growth, love, and connection.
If you’d like your baby’s first year documented with artistry and care, consider booking a Baby’s First Year Package—a series of sessions designed to ensure you never miss a milestone.
Julie Ann Photography • MINNEAPOLIS PHOTOGRAPHER 