One Year Family Photography Session at the UC Davis Arboretum | Davis Family Photographer

There is something incredibly special about photographing a family through multiple seasons of life. From maternity to newborn and now one year, it is such an honor to continue telling a family’s story.

This session was all about celebrating a very sweet milestone. Their baby girl recently turned one, and she arrived with plenty of personality. Along with learning new skills and exploring the world around her, she also perfected the art of giving the best little mean mugs. Most of the session she looked at me like I had personally offended her, and I could not stop laughing. It was equal parts hilarious and adorable.

This is exactly why I love photographing babies and young families. Babies are unpredictable, expressive, and completely themselves. There is no forcing moments. We simply follow their lead. These sessions are about documenting who they are right now, what they love, how they move, and how they interact with their parents in this season.

We photographed this session at the UC Davis Arboretum in Davis, California. It is such a beautiful location for family photography with its natural paths, greenery, and quiet corners that allow little ones to explore safely. It was the perfect backdrop for a relaxed, go with the flow session.

Mom and dad are always a pleasure to work with. Watching them interact with their daughter, laugh through the silly moments, and soak in this stage was such a joy to photograph. I truly hope this is not the last time I get to work with them, because families like this make this job so meaningful.

If you are on the fence about booking a family session because you worry your baby will not cooperate, this is your reminder that perfection is not the goal. Personality is. These photos will one day bring you right back to this stage, the expressions, the giggles, and yes, even the dirty looks.