The Storybook Year
The first stretch.
The gummy grin.
The way they reach for you—
and somehow, they’re already growing out of it.
The first year doesn’t move in a straight line.
It disappears in tiny leaps.
The Storybook Year is a simple, three‑session plan to document baby’s first year—
newborn + sitter + one‑year—with the option to add film.
Softly guided.
Never rushed.
Made to feel like memory.
Why families choose this
Because the first year disappears
This isn’t about “more photos.”
It’s about remembering the becoming.
The way your baby changes.
And the way your family does too.
When you book The Storybook Year, you’re not scrambling each season.
You’re held—by a plan, by priority scheduling, and by a consistent, timeless edit from the very beginning.
The three chapters
01 • Newborn
In‑home, baby‑led, slow and calm.
We follow your baby’s rhythm—feeding, soothing, breaks—always welcome.
02 • Sitter
Usually around 6–9 months (give or take).
Gummy smiles. Tiny hands. Big personality.
A milestone session that feels playful, gentle, and easy.
03 • One‑Year
Movement, cuddles, celebration—photographed with warmth and ease.
Not a performance. Not a production.
Just the love you’ve built this year, and the little person who arrived because of it.
What it feels like to be photographed this way
You won’t need to “make moments.”
You don’t need perfect behavior.
You don’t need a Pinterest house.
I guide gently into beautiful light and natural connection—
then let the real moments unfold.
This is baby-led.
And parent-friendly.
Optional keepsake film
Some memories live in motion.
The squeaks. The babble. The way they sway in your arms.
You can add a short keepsake film to your year—
a quietly cinematic layer to bring you back.
Collections
Choose the level of story you want
Storybook Keepsake
For families who want the full year, beautifully documented—without film.
- Three sessions: newborn + sitter + one‑year
- Planning + styling guidance for each chapter
- Curated, hand‑edited galleries with a consistent, timeless look
Storybook Film
For the “bring me back” feeling.
- Everything in Keepsake
- One keepsake film included
- Choose film for newborn or one‑year
Storybook Legacy
For families building a home archive.
- Everything in Film
- Two keepsake films
- Includes artwork credit for prints or albums
How booking works
- Inquire with baby’s due date or current age
- Choose your collection
- We plan each session gently, one season at a time
- You receive cohesive galleries (and film, if included)
You don’t have to keep track of everything.
That’s the point.
Chicago & Chicagoland First Year Photographer
I’m a lifestyle photographer based in Arlington Heights, serving Chicago and the surrounding Chicagoland suburbs, including the North Shore and nearby communities.
The Storybook Year is ideal for families looking for first year photography in Chicago and the suburbs—a calm, consistent way to document baby milestone sessions without stress, stiff posing, or pressure.
First Year Photography FAQ
When should we schedule the newborn session?
Most families plan for the early weeks, but lifestyle newborn sessions can be beautiful from the first days through the first couple of months. We’ll choose what fits your baby and your recovery.
What if my baby isn’t sitting yet?
Totally normal. “Sitter” can be adjusted to your baby’s stage—supported sitting, tummy time, crawling, or standing. We follow your baby, not the calendar.
Where do sessions take place?
Newborn sessions are typically in-home. Sitter and one‑year can be in-home or outdoors, depending on the season and the feel you want.
What if someone is sick?
We reschedule. Baby’s comfort and your family’s health come first.
Do we need props or a big theme for one‑year photos?
No. If you want a simple celebration element (a small cake, balloons, a favorite toy), we can keep it minimal and timeless—but it’s never required.
Can parents and siblings be included?
Always. These sessions are about your family, not just milestones.
What should we wear?
After booking, you’ll receive simple styling guidance (soft neutrals, gentle textures, easy coordination). I’ll help you keep it elevated without stress.
Can we add film later?
Yes—if you start with Keepsake and want to add film for a later session, just ask. We’ll keep it simple.
The first year will change you.
And then it will be gone—quietly.
Let’s preserve it with warmth and intention.