There are many steps along the journey through childhood that call for professional portraits. It would be a shame to miss any of them, because once they're gone, they're gone forever. Experts agree however, that there are several distinct times in your child's development when you really should have quality portraits made. 
 
 

During the First Year.... At no other time during childhood will physical changes occur so   rapidly as they do during your baby's first year of life. You should plan on visiting a professional photographer several times during this first year to record these important milestones in your baby's development: 

At Three Months..... babies are fresh, new human beings. A three month portrait will preserve
that time of newness. When photographed with one or more parents or siblings, a portrait at this age will capture forever that fleeting time when family members are the very center of your baby's world. 

By the Sixth or Seventh Month.... babies at this age are so cute and lovable. Strengthened      muscles let them now sit up and take part in the exciting world around them. Portraits at this age are a perfect time to reveal chubby little arms and legs... and even backsides! A portrait made at this precious time is one you will display forever because it captures the true essence and charm of babyhood.

Around the Ninth Month.... many babies are beginning to strike out on their own. Many can sit very well and may be able to stand by holding on to something, they are beginning to really explore an ever expanding world. At nine months they're well on their way to becoming a real "little person" with a very distinct personality. 

At One Year... the permanent facial characteristics begin to reveal a family likeness and individual character... still a baby, yet emerging as a robust and inquisitive child who is ready to meet the world. For the child who is now walking, the perfect message for this portrait is "I'm Free!"

Around the Second Birthday... a major milestone is achieved as the child begins to speak. The toddler now responds to reason, (well, most of the time), humor, and actions. The world of toddlers is filled with portrait opportunities that capture the times of mystery and fantasy that are so much a part of these days of discovery and make believe. 
 

Between the Third and Fourth Birthdays... the cutest, most endearing age for "little" boys and girls. With the ability to speak and reason growing stronger every day, these youngsters now  display individuality of character and action that should be portrayed before the baby teeth  are lost and replaced by permanent ones...forever altering the endearing look of early childhood. Just as the six month portrait captures the essence of babyhood, a wall portrait at this age displays forever the engaging charm of childhood. 

During the Seventh Year... The snaggletooth age ends and permanent teeth emerge to change facial contours. A developing mind reveals a more mature, inquiring outlook. Now in school and making their way in the world, portraits at this age can show the special interests that define who they are. Hobbies, sports, and pastimes can all serve to make portraits at this time a special remembrance of the child's emerging personality, and not just their physical appearance. 

As the Twelfth Year Progresses... the child is about to enter the teenage years, when physical,
emotional, and attitude changes occur. The child you know so well is about to become a more complex and less dependent young person. Peer acceptance is now important, and portraits can capture the child's sense of style and personality. 

By Sixteen.... childhood is all but a memory. The boy is almost a man, in his interests, his attitudes, his thinking. The young woman is now "Sweet Sixteen" an unforgettable age when she blossoms into womanhood. Still a lifetime of growing and learning ahead for both of them...but never again a child. 

Begin to plan your Child's personal Portrait History Now.  As you can see, there are many stops along the journey through childhood that call for professional portraits.  It would be a shame to miss any of them.  We are eager to suggest ways to create these priceless images.  And if you wish, we will even contact you at appropriate intervals to arrange the final details of each portrait session. 

It's as easy as that.  Through the Once Upon A Lifetime program or the Our Family Heritage
program, you can enjoy a peace of mind that comes from knowing your child's priceless     photographic history will be preserved forever.  So begin planning now for the most important portraits in your child's life.  You'll always be glad you did!