When Do We Shoot Family and Milestone Photography Sessions? – Elizabeth Lang Photography
At Elizabeth Lang Photography, capturing the special moments in your family’s life is something I absolutely love. From newborn photoshoots to milestone moments like baby’s first birthday, every stage is a beautiful chapter that deserves to be remembered.
One of the most common questions I get asked is: When do we shoot family and milestone sessions?
For 2025, I’m excited to share the details about the best time to schedule your family or milestone session, and why Saturday mornings are the perfect time to document your family’s special moments.
You can book a GROW WITH ME SESSION, or a FAMILY PHOTO-SESSION
Why Saturday Mornings for Family & Milestone Sessions?
Family and milestone sessions are typically held on Saturday mornings at 9:30 or 10:00 AM. These early slots are intentional, and here’s why they work so well for families with young children:
- Perfect for Toddlers: If you have a toddler or young child, these morning slots are ideal. Most toddlers are their happiest and most cooperative in the morning, right after they wake up and are well-rested. The earlier session times give us a chance to capture their best moods before they get too tired or fussy.
- Done Before Nap Time: One of the main reasons I schedule these sessions at 9:30 or 10:00 AM is that it allows us to finish before your toddler’s nap time. This ensures that your little one is at their most alert and cheerful, while also allowing you to enjoy the rest of your day without interrupting their routine. For families with younger children, this is a huge benefit!
- Efficient Use of Time: These 1 to 1.5-hour sessions are designed to be efficient but not rushed. The morning time slot allows us to get everything we need without cutting into your day. If you have a busy schedule or are trying to fit in multiple family activities, these sessions work well to allow for other commitments later in the day.
- Great Light and Atmosphere: I always aim to make sure my family photoshoots are filled with natural light and a relaxed, cozy atmosphere. Morning sessions often provide the best light in the studio, which gives us that soft, warm glow that makes family portraits feel even more special.
- Saturdays for Family Time: Saturdays are the perfect day to dedicate to family time. By scheduling family or milestone photos on a Saturday morning, you get to spend the day together, capturing memories, and then enjoy the rest of your weekend—whether that’s heading to a park, visiting family, or just relaxing at home.
How Does the Family & Milestone Session Flow?
Family and milestone sessions are typically a bit shorter than newborn sessions, usually lasting around 1 to 1.5 hours. Here’s how we usually structure these shoots to make the most of our time together:
- Start with Siblings and Family Shots: If you have older siblings or other family members who will be part of the session, we start with those shots first. This allows for everyone to be fresh and happy, and ensures we capture those beautiful family moments right at the start. Sibling shots are always filled with giggles, cuddles, and special interactions, and I make sure to take plenty of time to get these precious portraits.
- Individual Milestone Shots: If it’s a milestone session (such as baby’s first birthday, a one-year-old session, or a special celebration), we’ll then focus on capturing portraits of the baby or child at the heart of the milestone. Whether it’s cake smash photos, milestone props, or just beautiful portraits of your little one, we’ll work together to create images that reflect this special moment in time.
- Mom and Dad’s Turn: After capturing individual shots, it’s time for mom and dad to join in. I’ll take family photos that are more intimate, with you interacting naturally with your child or children. These images are often some of the most cherished, as they capture the true love and connection within your family.
- Relaxed and Fun Atmosphere: The key to a successful family session is to make it feel like a fun, enjoyable experience. I’ll guide you through every step, from posing to wardrobe choices, but I always aim to keep things light-hearted and relaxed. This way, everyone is comfortable and you’ll have fun, while I capture those genuine moments that will make your photos feel timeless.
Why You Should Book Early
Family and milestone sessions are some of the most popular I offer, and they tend to fill up quickly. With Saturday mornings being the prime time, early booking is highly recommended to ensure you get your preferred slot. The best way to secure your spot is to book 6-8 weeks in advance. If you're planning a birthday session, I recommend booking early, as these tend to book up quickly around seasonal holidays.
Consider adding sleeping portraits to your milestone session
If you have younger children 1-3 who nap and are great sleepers, consider adding sleepy portraits for a special touch. Read More here: Dream Sessions: Sleeping Portraits of Your Toddler
How to Book Your Family or Milestone Session
Booking a family or milestone session with Elizabeth Lang Photography is easy! Simply reach out to me via my website or email, and we can find the perfect time for your shoot. I’m happy to walk you through the process, offer advice on outfits, and answer any questions you may have.
A family or milestone session is a wonderful way to capture memories that you’ll cherish for years to come. Whether it’s the sweet interactions between siblings or the joy of celebrating a big milestone, these sessions are full of love and laughter.
Let’s make sure your family’s memories are beautifully captured and preserved. Book your Saturday morning session today, and let’s create timeless portraits that reflect your family’s unique bond.