Last month, Piper turned one, and I honestly cannot believe how fast this year has gone. It has been a wild, emotional, beautiful year, and we were so excited to celebrate our girl. I wanted to share a quick one-year update on Piper, along with some tips for first-birthday photos if you are planning them for your baby, too.
Piper’s First Birthday Photos
Over the last few years, I have really tried to be more intentional about investing in photography. Piper turning one felt like one of those moments I would want to remember forever. Our friend Brittany, who owns Bushel And Peck Photography, invited us to her home for the photos, and it was the perfect setting. Her space is beautiful, and she has such a calm way with babies.
Brittany is amazing at capturing kids just as they are, and Piper was the best little model. She smiled, explored, and somehow even looked right at the camera, which I did not expect at all.
The One-Year Stats
Piper is 28 inches tall and weighs 16 pounds 6 ounces. She is growing slowly, just like her brother did, but she is hitting every milestone like a champ. At 11 months, she skipped crawling and started walking, and now, at one year old, she is basically running everywhere.
She is obsessed with her brother and wants to do everything he does. Her favorite things right now are Rowan’s cars, cuddling with our dog, food, especially enchiladas, playing with water, and the moment daddy walks through the door after work.
Piper is spunky, independent, sweet, and truly everything we did not know we needed.
Tips for First Birthday Photos
I have shared more detailed advice in my posts, “Tips for Amazing Family Photos” and “Tips for Amazing Maternity Photos,” but here are a few tips that really apply to first-birthday photos.
Have low expectations
This is my number one tip for any photos involving kids. Babies can feel pressure, even when we do not mean to put it on them. Go in relaxed and let things unfold naturally.
Hire a great photographer
Before hiring anyone, I always spend time looking through their work on Instagram. I searched local hashtags to find photographers near me and made sure their style felt natural and true to our family. Brittany is a friend now, but I still did my research before booking her for Piper’s six-month and one-year photos.
Set your baby up for success
A well-fed and well-rested baby makes everything easier. Try to schedule photos around naps and meals if you can.
Let your baby move and play
Lifestyle photos are my favorite. I love the shots where my kids are not staring straight at the camera but you can see their joy and personality. Bring a small toy if needed, let them walk, explore, and just be themselves.
Get in the photos too
This is such a special chance to be photographed with your baby. Take it. Get a little dressed up and ask for a few photos of you together. Some of my favorite images from this shoot are the ones of Piper nursing, which I did not plan but ended up loving.
Ask for photos as a birthday gift
When people asked what Piper wanted, I honestly had no idea what to say. We already had so many toys from Rowan and did not need more stuff. Asking for money toward photos felt meaningful and practical, and it gives everyone something special to enjoy.
Outfit Details
Piper’s outfit came from local small shops. Her dress is from Cavelle Kids, and her flower crown is from Secret Garden Props.
My dress is from Amazon and is a great option for photos.
[…] dress reminded me of the blue maxi dress I wore for Piper’s newborn photos that I got on Amazon. I wanted to try this because it is yellow and as easy as amazon makes it to […]