When people hear the word “milestone,” they usually think of the big ones: first steps, first words, first birthday. But the truth is, milestones are made up of so many smaller, quieter, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments. And summer? Summer is full of them.
From babies learning to sit unassisted to toddlers discovering the magic of mud between their toes, summer offers a natural, easygoing backdrop to document your child’s growth in a way that feels less like a posed studio portrait and more like a chapter in your family’s story.
Yes, milestone photos are cute — tiny toes, big smiles, wild curls, all of it. But they’re more than that. They’re about preserving transformation. Capturing personality. And honoring the journey your child is on, exactly as they are, in a season that already feels nostalgic even while it’s happening.
Milestones Aren’t Just for Babies (But Let’s Start There)
There’s a common myth in family photography that milestone sessions are only for babies — 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months. But here’s what I want you to know: every age is worth documenting.
That said, the first year is truly a whirlwind of change. One month your baby can barely lift their head. A few months later, they’re clapping, sitting up, and full of gummy grins.
In the summer, we can take those moments outside where your baby can explore textures, light, and space — all in a way that feels natural. I’ll guide you through poses that are safe and comfortable, whether your little one is lying on a muslin blanket under the trees or practicing sitting in the grass with your steady hand just outside the frame.
The fresh air, golden light, and sense of space help your baby relax — and it shows in the photos.
Toddlers, Big Kids, and “In-Between” Milestones
After the first year, many parents stop scheduling regular photo sessions, thinking the “big stuff” has already happened. But toddlers and preschoolers are growing in equally profound ways — just not always in ways we’re taught to document.
Think about it:
The first time they blow dandelion fluff with full concentration
Learning to ride a balance bike, or catch a frog at the cabin
How their baby teeth smile looks right before the gaps come
That sweet in-between stage when they’re not a baby, not quite a big kid
These are the things we forget unless we freeze them in time.
Summer milestone sessions are perfect for capturing these fleeting “in-betweens.” No balloons or props required. Just their personality, in all its wild, joyful, muddy-footed glory.
Why Summer Is the Best Season for Milestone Photos
Sure, we can do milestone photos in any season — but summer brings some serious advantages, especially in Minnesota:
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No bulky clothing or jackets to cover up movement and expression
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Outdoor light that’s warm, soft, and endlessly flattering
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Flexibility for scheduling with school out and later sunsets
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Natural props like flowers, lakes, fields, sticks (yes, kids love sticks!)
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Space to roam — perfect for toddlers who don’t like sitting still
Summer also tends to be more relaxed. Without the school-year routines or holiday pressure, families show up more at ease — which makes kids more open and sessions more enjoyable.
We’re not just taking pictures — we’re creating an experience that becomes part of the memory.
Making Milestone Sessions Personal
The most meaningful milestone photos are the ones that reflect your child’s real interests, quirks, and energy.
That’s why I always encourage families to think about:
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What your child loves right now (Books? Bugs? Bubbles?)
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What phase they’re in (Are they independent? Shy? Fearless?)
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What environment they thrive in (Quiet field? Backyard garden? Lakeside?)
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Whether to include siblings or parents — yes, you’re always welcome to be part of it!
These details help guide the session so that instead of stiff smiles, we capture real joy, wonder, and connection.
And unlike big “event” shoots, summer milestone sessions feel simple and natural. You’re not dressing your baby in a costume or forcing them to sit next to a cake — unless they want to!
What to Expect from a Summer Milestone Session with Me
Every session starts with a conversation. I want to know what your child is up to right now — what they’re learning, how they express themselves, what lights them up.
From there, I’ll help you choose:
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The right time of day (golden hour works beautifully, but I also offer early morning options)
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A location that complements your child’s personality
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Wardrobe suggestions to keep them cool and camera-ready
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Ways to prep so the session feels like fun, not pressure
During the shoot, we follow their lead. I’ll guide lightly, but we’ll stop for snacks, explore, and create space for them to be themselves. Some kids love the camera. Some ignore it entirely. Either way — I’m capturing who they are, not who we expect them to be.
Most sessions last around 45–60 minutes. And we leave with not just beautiful images, but a joyful experience your child can feel proud of.
Real Stories: What These Photos Mean Later
I’ve photographed hundreds of milestone sessions over the years.
Here’s what parents tell me after:
“I almost didn’t schedule this because I thought we’d wait until her birthday. But this session captured her exact little smile right before her teeth fell out — and I’m so glad we have that version of her forever.”
“This was the first time my toddler let go of my hand and ran toward the lake. That photo is hanging in our hallway because it says everything about her spirit right now.”
“We booked this on a whim during a visit to St. Paul, and it’s now one of our favorite family memories of the whole summer.”
What may feel like “just a quick photo session” today becomes part of your child’s visual legacy — the proof of who they were, who they’re becoming, and how deeply loved they are.
Milestone Sessions Are For You, Too
Parents often hesitate to be in the frame — you’re tired, you haven’t done your hair, or you’re just there “for the kids.” But one day, your child will look at these photos and see your face. They’ll see how you looked at them. How you held them. How you were there.
Even if it’s just for a few frames, I encourage you to step in. Milestone sessions aren’t just about documenting growth — they’re about connection. Your presence in the photo is part of the milestone.
