Maple Grove & Minneapolis Baby Photographer
If you’re an expecting parent or already have a little one, you’ve probably heard about newborn photography and milestone photography—but what’s the difference? Both are beautiful ways to capture your baby’s journey, yet they serve different purposes, timeframes, and styles.
As a professional newborn and baby photographer serving Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Plymouth, Minnetonka, and surrounding areas, I often get asked whether parents should book a newborn session, a milestone session, or both. Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice for your family.
What Is Newborn Photography?
Timing: 5-21 Days After Birth
A newborn photography session is designed to capture your baby in the first few weeks of life—ideally between 5-21 days old. This is when newborns are sleepiest and easiest to pose, allowing for those soft, timeless images.
Style & Setup
- Soft, artistic, and delicate – The focus is on capturing your baby in a peaceful, natural way.
- Carefully posed portraits – Babies are wrapped, curled up, and positioned in cozy, gentle setups.
- Studio-based sessions – Most newborn sessions take place in my Maple Grove photography studio, where I provide all the wraps, props, and professional lighting.
- Family & sibling photos – Parents, siblings, and even grandparents can be included in the session.
Why Book a Newborn Session?
- Your baby will never be this tiny again—these early days pass in a blur.
- Professional photography captures the delicate details you’ll want to remember forever.
- These portraits become cherished keepsakes, preserving the emotions of your baby’s first days.
What Is Milestone Photography?
Timing: 3-12 Months
Milestone photography focuses on capturing your baby’s biggest growth moments throughout the first year. These sessions showcase your baby’s expressions, personality, and developmental achievements.
Popular Milestone Sessions
- 3-4 Months: Tummy time, pushing up, and big, curious eyes.
- 6-7 Months: Sitting unassisted, giggles, and chubby cheeks.
- 9-10 Months: Crawling, playful expressions, and standing with support.
- 1 Year Cake Smash: A fun, themed photoshoot celebrating baby’s first birthday.
Style & Setup
- Natural and playful – Less posing, more interaction and movement.
- Expressions & personality – Capturing the joy, curiosity, and individuality of your baby.
- Studio or outdoor options – Sessions can be held in the studio or at a scenic location in Maple Grove, Plymouth, or surrounding areas.
Why Book a Milestone Session?
- Your baby’s first year flies by—these sessions capture their biggest changes.
- Every milestone highlights a new stage in their development and growing personality.
- Milestone photos make a beautiful addition to baby albums or a family gallery wall.
Newborn vs. Milestone Photography: Which One Should You Choose?
Book a Newborn Session If:
- You want to capture your baby’s tiny, sleepy first days.
- You love soft, timeless, and artistic portraits.
- You want to document the very beginning of their journey.
Book a Milestone Session If:
- You want to capture your baby’s growth and personality.
- You want fun, interactive portraits that highlight their smiles, movements, and expressions.
- You want to build a year-long collection of memories.
Book Both for the Ultimate First-Year Collection!
For the most complete and beautiful record of your baby’s first year, many parents choose to book both newborn and milestone sessions. This allows you to:
- Capture your baby at every stage, from their first days to their first steps.
- Create a first-year album or gallery wall to tell the story of their growth.
- Ensure you don’t miss a single moment of this incredible year.
Final Thoughts: Capturing Your Baby’s Journey
Both newborn and milestone photography offer irreplaceable memories of your baby’s first year. Whether you choose one or both, professional portraits preserve these fleeting moments forever.
Now Booking Newborn & Milestone Sessions!
Serving Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Plymouth, Minnetonka, and surrounding Minnesota cities.
Want to create a collection of beautiful memories? Let’s plan your session today.
