Have you ever scroll through your phone, looking for a cute photo of the kids, and come up empty?
Not because you didn’t take any, but because the good ones, the ones where everyone’s in focus, not mid-blink, maybe even smiling? Yeah, they’re just not there.
Here’s the kicker: many parents say they regret not capturing more family moments while their kids were young.
And the truth is, you don’t get those tiny hands or gap-toothed grins back.
That’s why capturing timeless family moments on camera with a trusted photographer in Sarasota, FlL, isn’t something to put off. It’s something to plan now.
At Love and Style Photography, we make that easy with sessions designed to fit real life. So, how often should you get family photos taken? Let’s talk about that.
Why Timing Matters More Than You Think
So you’re thinking about family photos.
That’s great because, when it comes to timing, sooner is almost always better.
Here’s why…
Kids change fast. Not just year to year but month to month.
- That gummy baby grin? It’ll be gone by next season.
- The way your toddler laughs with their whole body? Blink, and it’s replaced with a shy smile.
- That missing front tooth? It’s a tiny window that closes fast.
Each phase is quick. And once it’s gone, it’s gone.
Parents often say, “We’ll wait until things calm down.” But life with kids never really slows down, does it?
That’s why booking a session now, while they’re little, while they’re silly, while you’re in the thick of it, is the best way to regret-proof your memories.
Because no one ever says, “I wish we’d waited longer to take family photos.”
You either have the moment captured or you don’t.
The Recommended Timeline: From Baby to Big Kid
You get it now, timing is everything. So let’s walk through the big stages, one by one, and make sure you never miss the magic.
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you plan your sessions with confidence:
Newborn (within the first 2 weeks)
- Think teeny toes, sleepy yawns, swaddled snuggles.
- This is when babies are at their tiniest and most peaceful. Their skin is soft and smooth, they curl up easily, and they’ll sleep through most of the session. That sleepy, squishy newborn look doesn’t last longaround day 15, they start waking up more and stretching out.
At Love and Style Photography, we recommend booking your newborn session in advance to avoid missing this sweet window. We bring the cozy setups, soft wraps, and a gentle touch that keeps baby (and you) at ease.
6 Months (when they’re sitting up)
Once that newborn phase passes, things start changing fast. By 6 months, your baby’s personality is already starting to shine.
Wide-eyed curiosity. Chubby rolls and big, bright smiles.
Around 6 months, your baby can usually sit up with little to no help, but they’re not quite mobile yet. That means fewer runaway shots and more time to capture their personality. This age is full of connection—eye contact, belly laughs, and clapping hands.
1 Year (first steps or cake smash)
Just when you thought they couldn’t grow any faster, boom, they’re standing, laughing, and maybe smashing their first birthday cake.
Wobbly legs. Curious fingers. A whole lot of fun.
Whether it’s a beach stroll, a birthday picnic, or a classic cake smash, this milestone deserves its own moment.
Your baby has turned into a tiny explorer, and it shows. These sessions are playful, spontaneous, and full of expressions you’ll never want to forget.
Thinking about a beach session? Check out our favorite family photo shoot on Anna Maria Island, Florida.
Every year after
After that first wild year, the pace slows down just enough to catch your breath. But trust us—those yearly changes still add up fast.
Sibling hugs. Missing teeth. Growing confidence.
Once your little one hits toddler and preschool years, aim for one session per year. This could be around their birthday, just before school starts, or during fall when the light is soft and golden.
These sessions don’t just track growth. They tell your family story, year after year. And yes, families who return to Love and Style Photography often say it becomes one of their favorite yearly traditions.
Photos don’t freeze time. But they do help you remember the parts that mattered most.
How to Fit a Photo Session into Your Busy Family Life
We hear this a lot:
- “We’re too busy.”
- “It’s too expensive right now.”
But here’s the thing: waiting until “things slow down” usually means missing the moments you’ll want to remember. And honestly? Most families are never not busy.
Quick Sessions That Fit Your Schedule
You don’t need to block off an entire day. Mini sessions are a great option for families who just need 15–20 minutes to get beautiful, frame-worthy photos.
At Love and Style Photography, we offer short, simple mini sessions that fit easily into your real life, perfect for a quick weekend morning or golden hour after school. Availability may vary by season, so it’s best to book early.
Want more flexibility? Ask about bundled sessions. These let you schedule multiple shoots across the year, like spring, fall, and holidays, without starting from scratch each time. One plan. Less stress.
Need help picking outfits? Here’s what to wear for your Anna Maria Island family session.
Let the Seasons Work for You
Still not sure when to make it happen? Here’s a quick reminder of when other Sarasota families love to book:
- Spring beach sessions:
The light is golden, the weather’s cooler, and the crowds are lighter before summer hits.
- Back-to-school fall shoots:
Kids are freshly dressed, and it’s the perfect time for those crisp, cozy family portraits.
- Holiday card deadlines:
Late October to early November is the ideal time frame if you want photos in time to print and mail.
Let’s Make Time Stand Still Before It Flies
You don’t need hours of free time or a perfect plan. You just need someone who gets what real family life looks like and how to capture it.
That’s what we do at Love and Style Photography.
Whether it’s a quick beach mini session or a full gallery to mark a big milestone, we’ll make it simple, fun, and totally worth it. You’ll walk away with images that feel like you, not stiff poses or rushed moments.
Ready to freeze time, just for a second?
Reach out now to book your next family session in Sarasota or Anna Maria Island.
