A First Birthday You’ll Never Forget
Your baby’s first birthday is more than just a party—it’s a celebration of a whole year of love, learning, and growth. From those very first snuggles to those now-wobbly first steps, this milestone is one you’ll always want to remember.
That’s why so many families choose to mark this occasion with professional birthday photos—and yes, even a fun and messy cake smash session!
Whether you’re envisioning a sweet, timeless portrait or something playful and colorful, hiring a first birthday photographer in Saint Paul ensures that every joyful, emotional, and silly moment is beautifully preserved.
1. Capturing Quality Moments You Can’t Replicate at Home
Let’s be honest—your phone is full of pictures of your little one (as it should be!). But there’s a huge difference between those everyday snaps and professionally captured milestone portraits.
With the right lighting, camera angles, and editing techniques, I’m able to highlight the details you’ll want to hold onto forever: their gummy smile, the way their nose scrunches when they laugh, their curious hands reaching for frosting.
And the best part? You get to be in the moment—not behind the camera.
At my studio, every session is designed to make your baby shine while telling the unique story of this beautiful age. These aren’t just photos—they’re memories, professionally preserved.
2. A Professional Studio That Makes It Easy for Parents
As a baby photographer in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, I’ve curated a studio space that’s baby-friendly, parent-approved, and ready for anything.
From thoughtfully selected backdrops and clean, non-distracting props to custom cake smash setups, everything is in place for a smooth and joyful experience.
You don’t have to bring a thing unless you want to. I’ll take care of:
The cake (if you’d like)
Outfits for baby
Coordinated props
Clean-up after the smash!
No rearranging furniture at home. No trying to find “the good light.” Just a calm, well-prepared space where you and your little one can fully enjoy the moment.
3. Stress-Free for Parents, Comfortable for Babies
I know how fast this first year goes—and how much energy it takes. The last thing I want is for your baby’s first birthday session to feel like just another task.
From the moment you walk in, my goal is to create a low-stress, high-comfort experience. You’ll be greeted with a smile, offered something warm to drink, and invited to just breathe.
And because I’ve worked with babies for over two decades, I understand how to adapt to their rhythms. Whether they’re feeling shy, silly, or sleepy, we’ll follow their lead with patience and care.
I always remind families: this isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. And I’ve got plenty of tricks up my sleeve for those unpredictable toddler moments.
4. Safety and Comfort Are Always Top Priorities
Your baby’s safety and comfort are non-negotiable.
In my studio, every prop is baby-safe, non-toxic, and cleaned between sessions. I use soft, supportive materials and ensure that every setup is cozy and secure—whether we’re doing a cake smash or a more classic portrait.
I also keep sessions short and sweet (usually 30–45 minutes) to match your child’s attention span and comfort level. There’s always space for breaks, diaper changes, or just a quiet cuddle if needed.
This is your baby’s world—I’m just here to capture the joy.
5. Creative and Meaningful Portraits That Reflect Your Family
First birthday sessions are a celebration, and your photos should reflect your baby’s personality and your family’s style. Whether you want:
A minimalist studio session with soft neutrals
A playful cake smash with balloons and bright colors
A themed setup that nods to a favorite book or toy
Or even something sentimental like recreating a family photo
We’ll bring it to life, together.
I love including meaningful touches, like a handmade outfit, a family heirloom, or a special book you’ve read together every night. These details make your images feel uniquely yours. And yes—if you’re not sure what direction to take, I’ll guide you with options, visuals, and ideas until it all feels just right.
Keepsakes That Last a Lifetime
These photos aren’t just for today. They’re for 10, 20, even 30 years from now—when your baby is all grown and you want to remember the way their hair curled at the nape of their neck, or how they lit up at the sight of cake.
After your session, you’ll receive a curated gallery of professionally edited images, ready to print, frame, or save in a keepsake album.
I also offer:
Heirloom-quality prints and wall art
Custom birthday albums
Gift options for grandparents
These are more than just pictures—they’re pieces of your family’s legacy.
You Only Turn One Once
Hiring a professional first birthday photographer is about more than checking a box. It’s about being present. It’s about celebrating everything you and your baby have shared this past year—and preserving it with care.
From playful cake smashes to quiet moments of connection, your session will be thoughtfully designed, stress-free, and full of joy.
🎂 Let’s Celebrate Together!
📅 Click here to book your first birthday session or learn more about cake smash photography
📍 Serving Saint Paul, Minneapolis, and the Twin Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When should I schedule my baby’s first birthday session?
I recommend booking 4–6 weeks in advance, especially if you want the photos ready by their birthday party. The ideal session time is around 11–12 months.
Q2: Do you provide the cake for cake smash sessions?
Yes! I can coordinate a simple, baby-safe cake for your session—or you’re welcome to bring your own. I’ll walk you through all the options.
Q3: Can siblings or parents be in the session too?
Of course! Family photos are a beautiful part of milestone sessions, and I always welcome parents and siblings into the frame.
Q4: What should my baby wear?
I have a curated wardrobe of first birthday outfits, or you can bring something special from home. I’ll help you plan for both portraits and the cake smash.
Q5: How messy does it really get?
It gets adorably messy—but don’t worry, I take care of the clean-up! Most babies love the sensory play, and I always keep towels, wipes, and extras on hand.
