Oh, how they grow, grow, GROW! 

Capturing your baby's milestones through photography is a wonderful way to preserve precious memories as they grow. From their first smiles to their first steps, each moment is worth documenting. Planning a successful milestone portrait session involves thoughtful preparation to ensure that the outcome beautifully represents your baby's personality and development. In this guide, we'll share essential tips to help you plan for an unforgettable photography experience that you and your family will cherish for years to come.

1. Choose the Right Time

Baby's personalities and moods can vary greatly throughout the day. Schedule the session during a time when your baby is typically happy and alert. Mornings are often a great choice.

2. Select a Comfortable Location

Whether you choose a studio, a park, or your home, ensure the environment is comfortable for your baby. A familiar setting can help your little one feel at ease.

3. Plan Outfits in Advance

Choose outfits that complement your baby’s personality and the theme of the session. Layering options can be great for versatility. Don’t forget about accessories!

4. Bring Comfort Items

Pack a few of your baby’s favorite toys, blankets, or pacifiers. These items can help comfort your baby and might even get some adorable candid shots.

5. Time for Snacks

If your baby is eating solids, plan for a snack or meal break. A happy, fed baby is more likely to be cooperative in front of the camera.

6. Coordinate with the Photographer

Communicate your ideas and expectations with your photographer beforehand. Discuss any specific milestones you want to capture, as well as any poses you have in mind.

7. Keep it Fun

Remember, the goal is to capture your baby’s milestone in a fun way. Don’t stress too much about getting the perfect shot. Enjoy the moment and let the photographer capture the joy!

8. Prepare for Changes

Babies can be unpredictable! Be prepared to adapt your plans if your baby is having an off day. Flexibility can lead to unexpected but delightful photos.

9. Capture Family Moments

Include family members in some of the portraits. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate your baby's milestones together and create lasting memories.

10. Think About Props

Consider incorporating props that symbolize your baby’s milestones, such as a sign with their age or items related to their interests or hobbies.

Holden's Smashing Celebration: A Cake Smash for the Books

In the heart of Peoria, where memories are captured with artistry and love, I recently had the pleasure of encountering a little star named Holden. This adorable baby boy, with his infectious smile and irresistible charm, took the stage for an unforgettable cake smash session.

Holden, the ultimate cake smasher and cutest bear ever stole hearts with his boundless energy and curiosity. The moment he laid eyes on his very own cake, his eyes lit up with wonder and excitement. Little hands eagerly reached out, ready to embark on a messy adventure.  But it wasn't just the cake that made Holden's session so special. It was the way he transformed into a little bear, with his adorable bear onesie and fluffy ears. Pat's keen eye for detail captured the essence of Holden's personality, creating images that are both whimsical and timeless.

For parents looking for a baby photographer in Peoria, Pat Hermann Photography is a haven of artistry and professionalism. With a focus on capturing the unique personality of each child, Pat creates stunning images that are both personal and timeless. Contact him today to learn more about the cake smash photography packages available.

Pat Hermann Photography is a full-service portrait studio that offers custom and creative portrait sessions for maternity, newborns, and babies. We treat each client and their family with the greatest care, and we will professionally document your memories and milestones. Our portraits are carefully crafted to offer you images that you will love for a lifetime.

We are located in Peoria, IL, and we serve the surrounding areas including Bloomington, Dahinda, Edwards, Galesburg, Morton, Pekin, and Washington. Contact us today to schedule your portrait session!

Baby Jeerzy's Newborn Portrait Session with Pat Hermann Photography in Peoria, Illinois

Jerzy. Jerzy. Jerzy. The best little sleeper + the best cheeks and hair?! We hit the jackpot with this little guy! He loved showing off his cute little assets at his first photo session ever. I wish I could have nibbled on those cheeks! <3

If you are looking for a talented and experienced photographer to capture your baby's portraits, Pat Hermann Photography is a great option. Pat has a passion for photography and it shows in his work. He is patient and kind, and she will make sure that your child feels comfortable and at ease during their session.

Pat Hermann Photography is a full-service portrait studio that offers custom and creative portrait sessions for maternity, newborns, and babies. We treat each client and their family with the greatest care, and we will professionally document your memories and milestones. Our portraits are carefully crafted to offer you images that you will love for a lifetime.

We are located in Peoria, IL, and we serve the surrounding areas including Bloomington, Dahinda, Edwards, Galesburg, Morton, Pekin, and Washington. Contact us today to schedule your portrait session!

Check out a Morton, IL milestone session here

Beau is one of our baby planners that I am so fortunate to be able to see every month! He is seriously the happiest baby and has rolls for days! Can you think of a more fun or original theme his mom chose? They call him Beau-Bot at home so this theme was absolute perfection for him! Not to mention that he is also the cutest baby ever!!

We started the session with some basic portraits of Beau in his onesie. He was so calm and relaxed, it was like he knew he was in good hands. Then, we moved on to some more creative shots. We put Beau in a little robot costume and had him pose with some of his favorite toys. He was such a natural!

Thank you for choosing me to photograph your beautiful baby, Beau! I am so honored to have been a part of your journey.  I had so much fun photographing Beau. If you're looking for a talented and experienced photographer to capture your baby's first year, contact my Peoria, IL portrait studio for more information.

Pat Hermann Photography offers custom and creative portrait sessions for maternity, newborns, and babies and is a full-service portrait studio that treats each client and their family with the greatest care. Your memories and milestones will be professionally documented and carefully crafted to offer portraits you will love for a lifetime. Contact Pat Hermann Photography for your maternity, newborn, and baby photography needs in Peoria, IL, and the surrounding areas including Bloomington, Dahinda, Edwards, Galesburg, Morton, Pekin, and Washington.

Galesburg, IL Newborn Photographer

Clara was an absolute angel at her session. Sleeping the whole time and fell into every pose perfectly. Big brother was so good with her! Such a great family!

Pat Hermann Photography offers custom and creative portrait sessions for maternity, newborns, and babies and is a full-service portrait studio that treats each client and their family with the greatest care. Your memories and milestones will be professionally documented and carefully crafted to offer portraits you will love for a lifetime. Contact Pat Hermann Photography for your maternity, newborn, and baby photography needs in Peoria, IL, and the surrounding areas including Bloomington, Dahinda, Edwards, Galesburg, Morton, Pekin, and Washington.