A first birthday family photo shoot in London

During their first year, babies change almost daily. One moment they’re tiny and curled up in your arms, and before you know it, they’re alert, curious, on the move — becoming their own little person. That first year passes quickly, which is why a first birthday photo shoot can be such a meaningful way to pause, mark, and remember these milestones as they unfold.

Turning one is a particularly special moment. It’s not just a birthday — it’s a celebration of a whole year of growth, change, and becoming a family.

Celebrating Seti turning one in Richmond Park

For Sedi’s first birthday, his parents chose to celebrate in a way that felt completely true to them. Rather than opting for a traditional cake smash, baby photoshoot or more formal, posed family portraits, they decided on a relaxed family photography session in Richmond Park — a place they love and visit often together.

Along with mum, dad, and their dog, we spent the session simply roaming through the park. Sedi was taking everything in — spotting animals, watching the world around him, and leading the way at his own pace. The focus was on being together, outdoors, with no pressure for anything to look or happen a certain way.

A natural alternative to a traditional cake smash

Instead of a structured cake smash setup, the family brought along a small cake and a few balloons. This turned into a gentle, improvised celebration — playful, slightly messy, and full of lovely expressions, without feeling staged or overwhelming for Sedi.

This approach allows space for genuine reactions and connection, while still marking the occasion in a way that feels joyful and personal. It’s a beautiful alternative for families who want something more natural and experience-led.

Why Richmond Park works so well for family and milestone sessions

Richmond Park is an ideal location for a first birthday or family photo shoot. The open space encourages exploration, the light is soft and flattering, and the natural surroundings create a timeless backdrop that never distracts from what matters most — your family.

For families who enjoy spending time outdoors, it becomes more than just a location. It’s part of the story, and the images reflect real life rather than a constructed moment.

Marking milestones in a way that feels like you

What made this session so special was how relaxed and unforced it felt. It wasn’t just about documenting Sedi turning one — it was about capturing a family in a place they love, doing something they genuinely enjoy together.

As a baby photographer in London, I believe that these are the kinds of images that grow in meaning over time. Not just a record of how your child looked at one, but a memory of how this season felt as a family.

Booking a first birthday or family photo shoot in Richmond Park

If you have a first birthday or milestone coming up and are considering a first birthday photoshoot, I’d love to help you plan something that feels natural, personal, and true to you.

I regularly photograph families as a Richmond Park family photographer, and also work with parents looking for a baby photographer in London or a first birthday photographer in London who offers a relaxed approach.

Once you’re ready to book:

We’ll confirm availability and secure your date with a deposit
You’ll receive a booking link and short questionnaire
We’ll have a pre-session consultation to plan timing, location, and styling
Your final gallery will be delivered within 30 days of your session

If a family session like this feels like the right way to mark your next milestone, get in touch — I’d love to hear from you.

Browse the portfolio

If you’d like to explore the different types of sessions before booking:

👉 Family photography
https://applegrovestudio.com/portfolio/family

👉 Motherhood (mum + baby)
https://applegrovestudio.com/portfolio/motherhood

👉 Maternity
https://applegrovestudio.com/portfolio/maternity

👉 Newborn
https://applegrovestudio.com/portfolio/newborn

If you have any questions at all — about timing, session types, or what might suit your family best — feel free to get in touch. I’m always happy to help.

Alina | Apple Grove Studio

Contact Us