Gemma officially turned ONE, and let me tell you, this one year milestone session was the perfect mix of sweet smiles, strong opinions, and tiny human honesty. Exactly how a one-year milestone should be. 🎂💗
From the moment Gemma arrived at the studio, she let us know she had thoughts. Some things were a yes. Some things were a very firm no. She was a little sour patch kid that day, but mostly sweet, and honestly, I wouldn’t want it any other way. One-year-olds are still figuring out the world, and that personality coming through is part of what makes these sessions so special.
We started with simple portraits using the Maeberry backdrop from Newborn Nerds. Soft, neutral, and timeless, it gave Gemma plenty of space to just be herself. And when that sweet little smile came out, it was magic. The kind that sneaks up on you and makes you forget how fast this first year flew by.
Next came the birthday dress. While it was absolutely adorable, Gemma made it clear that tulle was not her favorite fabric choice. And honestly? Relatable. One-year-olds don’t care about aesthetics, they care about comfort. So we listened, adjusted, and followed her lead, which always results in better images and a happier baby.
One of Gemma’s favorite moments for her one year milestone session was singing the “can you say momma” song. I may have changed the lyrics to include her name, because obviously, she deserved her own remix. Watching her light up, listening for her name, and flashing that sweet smile is exactly why I love milestone sessions. These tiny interactions are the things parents remember long after the cake is gone.
For her cake smash setup, we brought in balloons using Canyon Rose from Tuftex. Soft, warm, and beautifully complementary, they framed Gemma perfectly without stealing the spotlight. She explored, tasted, and gave us those classic one-year expressions that live somewhere between curiosity and mild suspicion. Perfection.
And then came the splash bath. This was something her family was especially looking forward to, and it did not disappoint. Water, bubbles, with a side of tears.
Gemma’s family described themselves as the “hot mess express,” and honestly, that made me smile so big. Because if you’re showing up, loving your child, and choosing to document these fleeting milestones, you’re doing it right. One-year sessions are not about perfection. They’re about capturing your child exactly as they are in this moment.
If you’re on the fence about booking a one-year milestone session, let this be your sign. These portraits freeze a season that passes in the blink of an eye. The baby rolls, the tiny toes, the curious looks, and yes, even the dramatic moments.
If your little one is approaching their first birthday, I would love to help you tell their story. Reach out early to secure your session, especially if you’re hoping for cake smash or splash bath images. These moments are too important to leave to phone snapshots alone. 💕
Read my 5 star reviews on Google here.
leave a comment