A first birthday photo shoot always holds such a special place in my heart – especially when I get to watch children and families grow and evolve over the years. 

I went to Surrey to photograph this special family who I worked with a couple of years ago when their eldest child was just a baby.

About this First Birthday Photo Shoot

The couple stole a moment with their youngest, while his older brother was at nursery, to document his first birthday and have a first birthday photo shoot centred around him. 

His parents decided against a traditional cake smash and instead wanted to capture more everyday, birthday moments – something they could look back on in a couple of years time that would reflect this very special milestone in their little one’s life.

We spent the morning documenting some really special moments between the family, like waking up from his mid-morning nap to enjoy a little tickle and snuggle session with Mummy.

We then spent some time on the floor as Mum and Dad read him his favourite book – I loved seeing his excitement as he flipped through the pages and opened up all the flaps on his treasured story book.

Next, we started the birthday celebrations as he popped on his very special big boy hat with a number one on, sat down for a tasty mid-morning snack as Mum and Dad fed him and gave him a large number one balloon to play with. The look of pure awe and wonder in his eyes as he stared at his gigantic balloon was so delightful to record.

We spent the final moments unwrapping some new musical toys and had a quick adventure in the garden where Dad lifted him up on his shoulders so he could reach the trees and enjoy some magical moments playing in the family’s back garden. 

Why I love this style of family session

We were able to capture so many everyday moments of him being playful and loving towards his parents. Moments they are all going to enjoy for many many years to come!

If you are looking for some alternatives to a traditional cake smash, I have written a blog post with some wonderful ideas and alternatives.

If you are excited about booking an at home photo session for your child’s first birthday please get in touch here.

You can also look at my family session galleries for more inspiration and alternatives to the traditional cake smash photo session.

P.S How gorgeous is the wall mural featured in this little guy’s nursery? If you are looking for gorgeous wall murals or wall papers for your little ones’ nursery you can find something similar on Photowall.co.uk).