Documenting a Baby Girl’s First Year - A St. Louis Grow With Me Photography Story

Documenting a Baby Girl’s First Year | A St. Louis Grow With Me Photography Story

There is something incredibly special about documenting a baby’s entire first year of life—from the anticipation of pregnancy to the moment they begin stepping confidently into toddlerhood. This sweet baby girl’s journey is one I will always hold close to my heart.

From maternity photos to newborn snuggles and milestone sessions at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, I had the honor of documenting every chapter of her first year. Not only because I am her photographer—but because her momma is a dear friend and social work coworker, making this experience even more meaningful.

Maternity Photography in the Greenhouse

We began this story with a maternity session in my greenhouse, a space filled with soft natural light, greenery, and calm, nurturing energy. The greenhouse setting felt like the perfect reflection of this season—growth, anticipation, and quiet excitement before welcoming new life.

As a St. Louis maternity photographer, I love creating sessions that feel organic and peaceful, allowing families to slow down and truly be present during this fleeting time.

Newborn Photography at Home: Cozy, Intimate, and Real

Her newborn session took place in the comfort of home, where real life was unfolding in the most beautiful way. Lifestyle newborn photography allows families to relax, follow baby’s lead, and focus on connection rather than perfection.

Those early days—tiny fingers, sleepy stretches, and endless snuggles—were documented just as they were, preserving the feeling of those first weeks together.

Three Months: Back to the Greenhouse

At three months, we returned to the greenhouse for her milestone session. By this time, her personality was beginning to shine—bright eyes, growing curiosity, and sweet expressions that hinted at who she was becoming.

The greenhouse once again provided a warm, natural backdrop that allowed the focus to stay on her and the beautiful bond between baby and parents.

Six Months at Forest Park

Her six-month milestone session brought us to Forest Park, one of St. Louis’s most beloved outdoor spaces. Surrounded by open light and natural textures, this session captured giggles, curiosity, and that magical in-between stage where babies are sitting, interacting, and soaking in the world around them.

Forest Park is always a favorite location for milestone sessions—it offers space to explore while keeping sessions relaxed and playful.

Nine Months at Eckert’s

At nine months, we headed to Eckert’s, a location filled with charm, texture, and a sense of childhood magic. This stage is full of movement and personality—babies are curious, expressive, and eager to explore everything around them.

This session was full of laughter, discovery, and moments that perfectly captured her growing independence.

One Year at Shaw Park: Celebrating Babyhood

We closed out her first year with a one-year session at Shaw Park. One-year sessions are always a mix of celebration and reflection—honoring how far baby has come while quietly saying goodbye to babyhood.

She explored, clapped, laughed, and showed off the beautiful little personality she had been growing into all year long. Shaw Park’s peaceful setting was the perfect place to celebrate this milestone.

Why First-Year Photography Matters

The first year moves fast—faster than we ever expect. Documenting maternity, newborn, and milestone sessions allows families to look back and truly see how much love, growth, and change happened in just twelve short months.

As both a photographer and social worker, I understand how deeply meaningful these images become over time—not just for parents, but for the child who will someday see their story reflected back to them.

A Story I’ll Always Treasure

Photographing this baby girl’s first year was more than a Grow With Me package—it was a gift. To document the journey of a close friend into motherhood, and to preserve her daughter’s earliest memories, is something I’ll forever be grateful for.

These are the stories I love telling. Stories of connection, growth, and the magic found in everyday moments.

If you’re expecting or welcoming a baby, I would love to help you document your child’s first year in a way that feels natural, meaningful, and full of heart.