Common Mistakes Parents Make When Arriving for a First Birthday Session

1. Bringing Extra Guests

It might seem like a good idea to bring grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings to help make your child smile. However, having too many people in the studio can be overwhelming, especially in a new environment. A crowded space can make it harder for your child to focus and feel comfortable. For the best experience, I recommend keeping it minimal—just your child and, if you’re doing immediate family photos, only the immediate family.

2. Using Phones or Tablets Too Soon

One of the biggest mistakes I see is parents turning to Miss Rachel, Cocomelon, or another favourite show the moment their child becomes fussy. While it might seem like a quick fix, it often backfires. Once a child starts watching their favourite show, they won’t want to stop, leading to tears and frustration when we try to take the phone away. Instead, I recommend saving screens as a last resort. When you arrive, I always give your child a few minutes to warm up to the space. I’ll gently introduce myself and engage with them in a way that makes them feel comfortable.

3. Expecting Perfectly Posed Smiles

Not every child will sit still, smile, or look directly at the camera—and that’s completely okay! Every child is different, and in my experience, the cutest moments often come from candid shots. Don’t stress if your little one is more interested in exploring than posing. I’ll work with their energy and capture their personality naturally.

4. Not Introducing Cake or Icing Beforehand

If this is your child’s first time touching or tasting cake, their reaction can go one of two ways—they’ll either dive right in or refuse to touch it. If you know your child is particular about textures or doesn’t like getting messy, I highly recommend letting them try a cupcake with icing before the session. This way, they’re more likely to engage with the cake during their photoshoot.

5. Forgetting Essentials

A few small things can make the session smoother for both you and your child:

• Bring an extra outfit for your child (and maybe for yourself too—things can get messy!)

• Pack some water and snacks, especially if your child gets fussy. If they have a favourite snack, we can even hide it in the cake to encourage them to interact with it.

• If they have a favorite stuffed animal or toy, feel free to bring it! It can help comfort them and make for some sweet, personal photos.

At the end of the day, the goal is to create a fun and relaxed experience. I’ll do my part to engage your child by playing peekaboo, giving high-fives, and making them feel at ease. If you have any questions before the session, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m happy to help!