How often to get family photos
“How often should you get family photos?”
It’s one of the most common questions parents ask, and there’s no single answer. Every family is different, and every year brings its own rhythm and priorities.
But one thing is true for all of us: childhood doesn’t wait.
There are a few fleeting stages in your child’s life that deserve to be remembered forever, not because they’re “perfect,” but precisely because they’re real, raw, and irreplaceable. If you’re wondering when to book a session (and when to skip) or how often you should get family photos, let me walk you through some of the most meaningful moments to consider.
When your baby is still tiny and your world has just shifted
The newborn weeks at home: when everything is new and intense and beautiful in its own way. You’re figuring things out, you’re sleep-deprived, and your arms are never empty.
This is not about poses or perfection, it’s about documenting the feeling of this season: skin-to-skin naps, sleepy feeds, the quiet bond between you, the new life that you are creating.
You won’t remember how tired you were. You’ll remember how it felt to hold them all day long. Read more about why I don’t pose newborns.
Around 6-12 months, that wonderful in-between
They’re sitting up, giggling, maybe crawling or standing, and they light up the room. They have a whole personality of their own and it’s the cutest!
You’re still their whole world, and they’re discovering everything with wide eyes. This is a magical, short-lived stage, full of clumsy cuddles, belly laughs and that irresistible baby curiosity. Learn more about my baby photography sessions in Dublin.
The “toddler tornado” (1–3 years old)
They’re walking, running, jumping… and you’re just trying to keep up.
Yes, they’re unpredictable. And no, they won’t sit still, and that’s exactly the point.
These photos are chaotic, full of movement, big feelings and even bigger love.
They’ll show you how much fun it was to chase them barefoot in the park or build block towers at home. Read more about how to prepare your child for a photo shoot.
The golden preschool years (4–6 years old)
This stage is pure magic. They say the funniest things. They want to help. They look up to you.
They’re full of imagination and cuddles.
These years fly by, and they’re perfect for a playful and heartwarming family session, whether it’s outdoors or in your everyday environment. This might be a great time for a “Day in the life” session.
That sweet spot before the big kid era (7–9 years old)
Often skipped, but so worth capturing.
They’re still silly. Still affectionate. Still into family games and improvised dance parties.
They’re growing fast, but you haven’t lost them to the tween world just yet. A family photo session at this stage often surprises parents with how much joy and personality it holds.
Before they start saying “Mama, please no pictures!”
By 10–12 years old, your child is no longer little, but not quite a teen either.
This stage is beautifully complex, full of confidence, curiosity, and small, quiet changes.
They’re becoming more independent, but they still crave connection. These are some of the last years they’ll truly want to hang out with you before the teen phase kicks in, and that makes them extra precious.
So… how often should you get family photos?
You don’t need to book multiple sessions a year.
But when life shifts, when your child changes in big or small ways, that’s when it’s worth pausing time with photos.
You’ll never regret documenting the years when:
- They still needed you for everything
- They fit in your lap
- They ran into your arms without hesitation
- They called you Mama with sticky hands and a wide smile
- They wanted one more story and the bedroom door left open
And if you’ve missed a few stages? That’s okay.
It’s never too late to start telling your family’s story, honestly, joyfully, and without pressure.
Learn more about my documentary family sessions and get in touch with me! I can’t wait to meet you.
