Double the Trouble, Turning One!

Some shoots feel extra special from the very beginning — and this was one of them.

What was technically two first birthday sessions turned into one beautiful, overlapping celebration of family, cousins, and a whole lot of cake crumbs on the floor.

The day started with a familiar face. Becky is a repeat client, and it’s always such a joy walking back into a home where trust is already there. This session was to celebrate Archie turning one, with mum Becky, dad Stephen, and big brother Ellis by his side. Archie was the star of the show — curious, calm, and completely happy to explore his surroundings in his own time.

Then came the bonus magic.

Becky’s sister Jo had also welcomed a baby into the world — sweet Bodie — and wanted to mark his first birthday too. So we simply… kept going. Back-to-back sessions, same cosy home, same soft light — just another beautiful family stepping into the frame. Jo and Dexter joined with Bodie, and suddenly what could have been two separate shoots became something even more meaningful.

The cousins.
Two boys, both turning one.
Sharing a cake smash, side by side.

There was no pressure, no rushing, no “perfect pose.” Just little hands exploring icing, curious glances at one another, and that wonderful in-between chaos that makes first birthdays so special.

Why photographing at home made all the difference

One of the things I loved most about this session was where it took place. Shooting at home creates an entirely different experience — especially for little ones.

There’s something incredibly grounding about being in a familiar space. No strange studios, no bright lights, no expectation to perform. Just bare feet (or socks), sitting on the floor, crumbs everywhere, and parents close by. The children were relaxed, comfortable, and completely themselves — which meant the photos reflected real moments rather than staged ones.

In-home sessions allow children to move freely, to take breaks when they need them, and to explore at their own pace. And for parents, it often feels less like a “photo shoot” and more like a memory unfolding naturally.

That’s where the magic lives.

This day was full of laughter, frosting-covered fingers, overlapping families, and the kind of connection you can’t plan — only allow space for. Double the trouble? Maybe. But also double the love, double the joy, and double the memories preserved forever.

And honestly… I wouldn’t have it any other way 🤍