Anjali and her sweet family are some of my very favorite people. She’s the youngest of three, and I’m a mom of three kids myself. There’s a certain sort of organized chaos that always exists when you have three kids, and Nilam and I both understand (and love) it well. I first photographed Anjali at three months (click here) and then again at six months, and was excited to see her again for her nine month milestone.
If you’re wondering: most families schedule milestone sessions after the newborn session in one of two ways: 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, First Birthday OR 4 months, 8 months, First Birthday.
Nilam had come to the studio the week before their session with armfuls of clothing. She really appreciates being able to go through options in person and have me pull everything together for her from what she brings. All clients have the opportunity to do this! If stopping by the studio isn’t feasible for your schedule, you can send over some phone photos and we’ll exchange emails until we have just the right mix for your family. We pulled a few pieces from the studio wardrobe for Nilam and she loved one of our simple twist strap dresses that was a perfect fit for her. Nilam left my studio that day with peace of mind that everyone was squared away for Anjali’s milestone session the following week!
On the day of Anjali’s session, the family showed up with grandma in tow. I welcome and encourage grandparents to participate as well! Her mom had brought along a few different clothing options since she wasn’t quite sure which would be best with the family’s planned outfits. I took one look and selected the winner. As a photographer, I know what colors work well together. All I ask is that you make sure the clothing fits the wearer well and is clean and ready to wear.
So, milestone sessions are supposed to be about the baby, right? Yep! The baby AND the people who love them. The vast majority of my clients choose to structure the milestone session as a family session with solo portraits mixed in also to commemorate the milestone. At the end of the day, you have a proof gallery to choose from - so if you decide you want all the photos to be of the whole family, you can choose those. I see a pretty even mix between family/parent and baby images chosen by my clients, with most opting to upgrade and keep the entire gallery of photos. By this point, Nilam and Mitch jokingly told me not to bother sending a proof gallery because they already knew they’d want them all just like the last two sessions.
I started with just Anjali who is such a happy and smiley little girl. We added in her siblings, and then gave her a break to photograph some images of Grandma with her older grandchildren. We rotated in and out between groupings, giving kids breaks where needed, and we wrapped up the session in about 45 minutes including the snack breaks and diaper changes that occurred.
I never rush my sessions. But I don’t dilly dally either. Working quickly and efficiently is important in order to keep my little clients engaged and happy - and parents are thankful that sessions don’t drag on for two hours ending with very cranky little ones on the verge or beginning of an epic meltdown. Milestone and family sessions are laid back and fun, but they’re also clearly directed with intention so we can get the most out of our time together!
Before I end this, I want to tell you about Mitch and his amazing pediatric dental practice, Peachtree Hills Pediatric Dentistry in the Peachtree Hills area of Buckhead. Ever wish your pediatric dentist had weekend appointments?! HE DOES! He’s also dad to these three cuties, and one of the most loving and hands on dads I’ve ever met. Clients who have been to him report that he was wonderful with their kids. So, if you’re looking for a board certified pediatric dentist that has flexible hours to work with your schedule, definitely check out Dr. Vaughan (and tell him I sent you!)
And now…. enjoy this family’s fun session! Be on the lookout for Anjali’s First Birthday session at the gardens location soon - it’s a fun one!
If you're expecting a baby or already a parent and looking for a newborn, maternity, or family photographer, I would love to work with you to create images that you will love for a lifetime. Watch this video to hear about my philosophy and see how I work in the studio so you can determine if I'm the right fit for you. I can't wait to meet you!
Lily Sophia Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity, and family photography in Atlanta, Georgia and surrounding areas.
