Are you planning your little one’s first birthday photoshoot and looking for perfect ideas and planning tips? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
First birthday photoshoots are a special occasion. They mark the end of your baby’s first year and the beginning of a beautiful new journey. I believe this milestone should be celebrated greatly but without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide on how to prepare for a great, budget-friendly first birthday photoshoot, along with some adorable ideas for 1st birthday photoshoots to inspire you.
How to prepare for a great, budget-friendly first birthday photoshoot
1. Book the perfect photographer in advance
Whether you want a studio session or an on-site birthday photoshoot for your little one, I highly recommend booking a good photographer in advance. Booking a photographer at least two weeks before the special day will not only help you save costs but also reduce stress and make the celebration more enjoyable for you.
Pro tip: I recommend hiring a photographer who specializes in capturing adorable toddler photos for your child’s 1st birthday photoshoot.
2. Choose the right location for the photoshoot
When it comes to choosing a location for their child’s first birthday photo shoot, parents often struggle with deciding between an indoor or outdoor setting. The best location for your child’s photoshoot ultimately depends on your preferences and the look you want to achieve in the pictures. If you want a stress-free first birthday photoshoot, I’d recommend a studio or an indoor setting.
However, if you don’t mind dealing with the potential stress, transportation, and outdoor photo shoot setup and drama, you can consider a park or beach for your baby’s first birthday pictures.
3. Consider DIY decorations
If you choose an outdoor setting, consider creating your own decorations using simple, affordable materials like balloons, streamers, and handmade banners. Alternatively, if you find this process too stressful, you can purchase simple banners or festive items from nearby party stores and have your friends or spouse help you set them up.
Pro tip: I’d highly recommend you prioritize the decorations as they will determine, to some extent, the atmosphere and greatness of the celebration.
4. Choose simple but cute outfits
Comfort is one the most important factors to consider when choosing outfits for your angel’s 1st birthday photo shoots. The choice of outfits can either enhance the birthday pictures or detract them. Therefore, I suggest selecting simple but cute dresses that you are super sure your child will be comfortable in. Steer clear from tight outfits as they can restrict your child from walking or playing freely during the photoshoot. Furthermore, avoid expensive designer outfits if you are on a budget.
5. Prioritize adequate rest and comfort leading to the photoshoot
I understand that preparing for your baby’s special first birthday photoshoot can be quite stressful, especially if the session is only a couple of hours away. Nevertheless, it’s essential to ensure that both you, your baby, and anyone else involved in the photoshoot get adequate rest beforehand. Get enough sleep, eat well, and also consider grooming yourselves.
6. Enlist the help of a friend or family member
For some obvious reasons, you will need the help of a close friend or family member. You can’t do everything by yourself, and your child might even feel happier having someone else around during the photoshoot.
7. Enjoy the moment
The memories we make with our family is everything.” – Candace Cameron Bure. You have invested a lot of effort and resources into the birthday photoshoot, so make sure you fully enjoy it. To achieve this, don’t view it solely as a party or a photo session but rather as a unique opportunity to create beautiful memories with your child, spouse, and friends and family members present.
7 Best first birthday photoshoot props ideas
Here are some of my favorite props for first birthday photo shoots:
1. A giant number 1
A large number 1 prop is a signature for this age. It will automatically scream your child’s new age.
2. Balloons
Balloons are a must-have fun props for any birthday party. You can either buy balloons in various colors or use a balloon arch as the backdrop for the picture.
3. Birthday banner
You can personalize the birthday photos by using a banner or sign with your child’s name and age as the backdrop.
4. Confetti
Confetti can help create a fun and playful atmosphere for the pictures.
5. A toy or stuffed animal
Include your child’s favorite stuffed animals or toys in the photos for a personal touch and also to keep your child entertained during the photo shoot.
6. A one-year-old-themed outfit
This is a must-have prop for any first birthday photoshoot. However, make sure you choose an outfit your child will be comfortable in.
7. Smash cake
A smash cake is a popular and adorable prop for a first birthday photoshoot. If you want a messy, candid birthday moment picture of your child, it’s the perfect choice.
Aside from these, you can also use props related to your child’s interests. It could be a football, tennis ball, or a musical instrument. This will help to make the photos more personal and meaningful.
First birthday photoshoot ideas
Here are some 1st birthday photoshoot ideas to inspire you:
1. In a one-year-old-themed wooden crate
2. Holding balloons
3. Superhero
4. In a wooden boat
5. With a toy or stuffed animal
6. On a wooden horse
7. In front of a vintage TV
If you love this article, here are some other great ones to check for the best birthday photoshoot experience:
20 Creative And Classy Birthday Photoshoot Concepts And Ideas