Everything You Need to Know About Baby Milestone Sessions in Virginia Beach, Virginia

One of my favorite parts about photographing little ones is getting to document your baby as he/she grows!

That’s why I’m obsessed with our First Year Membership! You already know, your baby changes SO fast, which is why pre-scheduling these sessions makes sure you’ll have these moments and details of your baby’s fastest year don’t slip by, with lots of fun bonuses!

How Baby Milestone Sessions Work at Jessica Jeremiah Photography

Baby milestone sessions are photoshoots that capture the key stages of your baby’s first year, from bump to birthday!

These stages include:

• Maternity: You’ll never regret documenting your belly! It’s such a special, fleeting time even if you don’t feel your best.
• Newborn: The first sleepy, squishy, curled up days go by the fastest!
• 3 Months: Baby isn’t mobile, but I love documeting their first smiles, the cheeks filling out, and snuggles with Mom and Dad!
• 6 months: The sitting session, when your baby can sit up on their own but generally aren’t super mobile, and the TOE GRABS are the best!
• 12 months: The first birthday session, celebrating your baby turning one. This can be in studio or outside, with our without a cake smash!

With the JJP First Year Membership, you can choose to document any combination of these milestones!

When to Book Baby Milestone Sessions?

Many parents book these sessions during their newborn ordering appointment. Planning ahead ensures you have a spot on the calendar and reduces stress during those busy months.

Plus, having everything lined up allows you to focus more on enjoying the moments rather than worrying about logistics.

What to Expect from Each Session

Maternity Session

Maternity sessions can include just Mom, Mom and Dad, or the whole family! In studio, outside or in home are all amazing options. In studio, you can select multiple outfits, and even add on a milk bath!

Newborn Session

Again, newborn sessions can include just the baby, or baby and parents and siblings! The studio is a really sweet, relaxed space for newborn sessions without having to worry about the light or cleaning up your own space, but of course I’m happy to come to you. Outside newborn sessions can also be really special during warmer months!

3-Month Session

At three months, we may be able to document some sweet smiles, and the focus will be on preserving the little details that change so fast!

6-Month Sitting Session

At six months, your baby is likely sitting up on their own and may even be starting to crawl or roll over. 

This session focuses on capturing their adorable personality and curiosity as they explore their world. Babies at this age are full of smiles and giggles, making it a delightful time to take photos. The toe grabs are my absolute favorite!

Props and Outfits: Think cute chairs, their favorite toy, and adorable outfits. (don’t worry, I provide props, chairs and outfits!)

Personal Props: Bring along their favorite toy or book. These personal items can add a unique touch to the photos and make your baby feel more comfortable.

Location Options: You can choose from my studio, your home, or an outdoor setting. My studio or another local studio offers a controlled environment with lots of props, while home sessions can capture your baby in their familiar space. Outdoor sessions can provide beautiful natural light and scenic backgrounds.

12-Month First Birthday Session

The big one-year milestone is here! Your baby is likely standing, taking their first steps, and babbling. This session celebrates your baby’s first birthday and all the joy it brings. It’s a wonderful opportunity to capture their growing independence and playful nature. These sessions can be all about baby, or it’s a great time for family photos too!

Themes and Props: Cake smashes, balloons, and special birthday outfits are popular choices. Cake smashes are especially fun and make for some adorable and messy photos, or I have a classic wooden cake if you want to avoid the mess! Balloons and themed decorations can add to the festive atmosphere.

Personal Props: Consider bringing a special birthday gift or a keepsake. Items like a favorite book, a cherished stuffed animal, or a handmade blanket can add a personal touch to the session.

Location Options: A studio provides a controlled environment where you can manage lighting and props more easily. Outdoor sessions offer natural light and open spaces for your baby to explore. Both settings can result in beautiful photos that capture the excitement of this milestone.

On on recent cake smash, older sister joined the fun and showed her baby brother how it was done!

It’s my job to make this easy for you!!

Don’t worry about bringing tons of props or outfits. I provide these to make things easier for you, and we will brainstorm about what will make your session feel unique and special! I love incorporating fun little touches, like florals, fun sunglasses, pinwheels, etc.

Tips for Parents

Preparing for a milestone session doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are some tips to make it smooth and enjoyable:

• Naps and Feeding: Of course, make sure your baby is well-rested and fed before the session to keep them happy and comfortable. If that means we need to schedule your session at 8am – let’s do it!!

• Favorite Toys or Blankets: Bringing familiar items can help your baby feel more at ease.

• Puffs/Snacks Welcome!: Oftentimes your baby’s favorite snack or bottle can get them happily to the end of their session

Don’t worry – if you’re a client you don’t have to remember all these details! I’ll send you a prep guide before each session!

If you’re excited to capture your baby’s milestones in Virginia Beach, Virginia, click here to contact me!

I’m here to answer any questions and help you plan the perfect milestone sessions for your family!

There’s something beautiful about being photographed in a space that feels calm, simple, and inviting.

That’s exactly why I created my lifestyle photography studio in Chesapeake, Virginia!

It’s neutral by design with soft whites, warm textures, organic tones, so your images will feel timeless and blend beautifully into your own home. No bold colors competing for attention. No trendy backdrops that date quickly. Just light, connection, and the ones you love most.

I truly believe that your photos shouldn’t just live on your phone, they should fit into your life and home effortlessly where they can bring joy and remind you of your greatest blessings.

Dreamy Light, All Year Long

One of the most special things about the studio is the light. I love it when a client enters for the first time- their soft “oh wow!” when they walk through the door. It’s a space that feels calm and inviting, like you can exhale.

It’s soft, consistent and dreamy in every season.

Whether it’s the middle of winter or the heat of summer, the light pours in and wraps around you in a way that feels gentle and natural. You don’t have to chase golden hour or worry about weather. The glow is always here.

And that means your images will always feel warm, no matter the month.

The “In-Home” Feel… Without the Overwhelm

So many families love the idea of lifestyle, in-home photos.

But in reality, that means decluttering, cleaning, moving furniture and stressing about whether the light in your house is “good enough.”

In the studio, you get the cozy, snuggly, relaxed look of in-home photography without any of the pressure.

No rushing to tidy up.
No wondering if your baseboards will show.
No last-minute scrambling.

You simply show up and know that a beautiful space (and wardrobe!) is waiting for you.

A Space That Invites Connection

The studio is intentionally cozy with several seating options and textures. Open floor space allows little ones to move naturally. Simple setups encourage snuggling, playing, and being present.

It’s not about stiff posing.

It’s about:

• Babies curled into your chest
• Toddlers climbing into your lap
• Quiet maternity moments
• Gentle laughter and movement

The space holds that beautifully.

Everything You Need Is Already Here

You don’t have to bring a trunk full of options or wonder what will photograph well.

I have:

• A thoughtfully curated client wardrobe with high quality dresses from Jamie Kay, Femme and Fawn, Free People, and Nothing Fits But
• Simple props like baskets, stools, benches, and seasonal florals
• Clean, timeless pieces that enhance and never distract

And for mamas wanting something extra special, there is a beautiful tub available for milk bath sessions or intimate maternity portraits. The simplicity of it creates images that feel soft, feminine, and deeply personal.

All you have to do is walk in the door.

Come As You Are

The heart behind this studio is simple:

I want you to feel taken care of.

I want the experience to feel easy.
Restful.
Even a little like a deep breath.

You don’t need a perfectly styled home.
You don’t need to stress over details.

You just need to show up ready to love on your people.

The rest is already here waiting for you.

I’m so excited to create timeless, cherished photos for your family. Please contact me so we can start planning your session!