72 best monthly baby photo ideas for new mums

Your baby will never grow as fast as they do in their first year. Sometimes, like with our second, their face changes so much that they look like a totally different person. So, capturing every essence of your baby’s first year in digital form is essential because time flies so fast. Blink, and they’re teens (my second will be 13 next year!).

You’ll likely be snapping pictures daily, but taking a dedicated baby’s monthly photo is helpful to truly see your baby’s growth. These snapshots, taken from newborn to the first year, will show their amazing transformation over time.

However, with the thousands of images you’ll be creating, organising them will be key. In this article, we’ll share 72 of the best monthly baby photo ideas for your baby’s first year and offer tips for taking monthly baby photos on how to organise and showcase them for years to come.

Why monthly baby photos matter

Monthly baby photos help document significant milestones, from the first smile to the first steps. These regular snapshots can capture those subtle changes and major developments that occur each month that you may not necessarily see when you’re living in the moment with your baby. You’ll look back and revel at how tiny your new baby was back then, but at the time you’ll be too busy dealing with everything life throws at you as a new parent.

It’s really important to organise these photos into a collection, so you can see a visual timeline of your baby’s month of their first year, as it also creates cherished keepsakes for you and your family. These memories will truly treasured for years to come, allowing you to relive those precious moments when they’ve long flown the nest..

Essential tools and equipment

To capture the best monthly baby pictures, you’ll need the right tools and equipment. Here’s a look at what you need and some examples to get you started:

Camera vs. smartphone

Choosing between a camera and a smartphone depends on your preference and the equipment you already have.

A DSLR or mirrorless camera offers high-quality images and better control over settings like aperture and shutter speed. For instance, a Canon EOS Rebel T7i* or a Nikon D3500* are great entry-level options that provide excellent photo quality.

Modern smartphones like the iPhone 13* or Samsung Galaxy S21* have impressive cameras that can capture high-resolution images and are incredibly convenient to use. Plus, they come with built-in editing tools and easy sharing options.

Natural light vs. artificial light

Good lighting is key to taking beautiful photos.

Using natural light is ideal as it’s soft and flattering. Position your baby near a window where indirect sunlight can illuminate their face. Morning or late afternoon light works best to avoid harsh shadows. Try different angles too, to get the perfect shot.

If natural light isn’t available, you could use softbox lights or ring lights if you have them to hand. These lights can mimic natural light and are adjustable to get the right amount of light. We use a ring light which is really good at brightening up the face. The Neewer Ring Light Kit* is also a popular choice among photographers because of its versatility and ease of use.

Props and backgrounds

For some fun ideas to boost your first-month pictures, use props and backgrounds to make your first baby photos look more engaging and thematic.

Items like stuffed animals, blankets, and toys can add personality to your photos. Seasonal props such as pumpkins during Halloween or holiday decorations during the Christmas season can make each month’s photo unique and fun.

For your baby’s monthly milestone photos, try a simple, clean background which helps keep the focus on your baby, although you can use plain sheets, patterned fabrics, or even themed backdrops that match your monthly milestone markers. For example, a white sheet can provide a classic look, while a colourful quilt can add warmth and texture.

We’ll share many more prop and photo monthly baby picture ideas below, so stay tuned!

Monthly milestone markers

Milestone markers help document your baby’s growth and make it clear which month the photo represents. Plus, they make for super cute baby milestone photos! 

You could use milestone blankets with numbers and designs to highlight your baby’s age. The “Lulujo Baby’s First Year” blanket* is a popular choice.

A wooden or plastic set of blocks that spell out the month is cute and reusable. You can find sets specifically designed for baby’s milestones, like the Pearhead Wooden Milestone Blocks*.

Monthly milestone stickers you can place on your baby’s onesie are easy to use and come in various cute designs. The “Baby Month Stickers” by Little Moments* are a cute option.

72 best monthly baby photo ideas you can try now!

Now you’re ready to capture those sweet photos! Here are 72 baby month-by-month picture ideas – from themed setups to simple, sweet concepts – which will inspire you to create memorable snapshots of your little one:

Themed photo cute ideas

1 – Autumn leaves

Capture your baby among the colourful autumn leaves to create a cosy, seasonal photo.

2 – Holidays of the first year

Celebrate each holiday with thematic props like pumpkins for Halloween or Santa hats for Christmas.

3. – Popular characters and toys

Use props of popular characters or your baby’s favourite toys to create familiar and engaging photos.

4 – Beach gear

Create a summer vibe with beach props like sunglasses, hats, and sand buckets.

5 – Pumpkin patch

Use pumpkins and hay bales to create an adorable autumn photo setting.

6 – Winter Wonderland

Create a snowy scene with white blankets, snowflakes, and winter attire.

7 – Magical unicorn

Use unicorn-themed props for a whimsical and magical photo session.

8 – Jungle adventure

Include jungle animals and plants for a wild, adventurous theme.

9 – Ocean explorer

Use sea creatures and beach elements for an under-the-sea adventure.

10 – Carnival fun

Incorporate bright colours, balloons, and carnival toys for a lively and fun theme.

11 – Butterfly kisses

Use butterfly props and pastel colours for a sweet and gentle theme.

12 – Nature walk

Take photos in a natural setting with trees, flowers, and greenery.

13 – Fairy tale

Use props from classic fairy tales to create magical and enchanting photos.

14 – Zoo day

Include stuffed zoo animals and set up a mini zoo scene.

15 – Space adventure

Use star and planet props for a space-themed adventure.

16 – Island breeze

Create a tropical setting with palm leaves and beach toys.

17 – Wild west

Dress your baby as a cowboy or cowgirl and use Western props.

18 – Urban baby

Use a cityscape backdrop to create an urban, modern theme.

19 – Vintage vibes

Use vintage props and clothing for a classic and timeless photo.

20 – Art studio

Set up an art studio with paints, brushes, and a mini easel. Come up with a new idea for each month, like the best things they did that month or something which involves their first time. 

Simple and sweet concepts

21 – In your arms

Capture the warmth of holding your baby and showcase the bond between parent and child.

22 – Tiny props on white

Use simple, tiny props on a white background to keep the focus on your baby. For example, you can do a pizza baby-style photo by placing your baby carefully in a pizza box. It’s so cute! 

23 – Sweet little kit

Include a favourite stuffed animal or blanket for a cosy photo.

24 – Simply seated

Position your baby in a cosy chair for a natural, relaxed photo.

25 – Quilted comfort

Place your baby on a homemade quilt for a warm and comforting background.

26 – Quiet time

Capture peaceful moments with your baby in a serene setting.

27-  Lullaby land

Use musical-themed props to create a calming, dreamy photo.

28 – Oldtimer

Use sepia tones and vintage props for a nostalgic feel.

29 – Books and bears

Create a reading time scene with books and teddy bears.

30 – Picnic day

Set up a picnic blanket and basket for an outdoor, sunny day theme.

31 – Chalkboard moments

Use a small chalkboard to write the month or a special message.

32 – Minimalist beauty

Focus on clean lines and simple backgrounds to highlight your baby’s natural charm.

Fun and unique ideas for monthly milestone pictures

33 – Doughnut grow up

A unique idea could be to use a fun doughnut theme with colourful doughnut props.

34 – Flower power

Surround your baby with flowers for a bright and cheerful photo.

35 – Bounty of the season

Use seasonal fruits and vegetables as props to highlight the time of year.

36 – Character of the month

Feature a different character each month for variety.

37 – Create a scene

Build a small set to create a themed scene, like a mini bedroom or a park.

38 – Go digital

Use digital backdrops to create imaginative and varied scenes.

39 – Little illustrations

Add hand-drawn illustrations to your photos for a personalised touch.

40 – Mod markers

Use modern milestone markers to highlight your baby’s age each month.

41 – Plush pics

Incorporate plush toys to add softness and whimsy.

42 – Use blocks

Spell out your baby’s age with different colour blocks.

43 – Hat collection

Feature your baby in different hats each month for a fun series.

44 – Ice cream delight

Create an ice cream-themed photo with colourful cones and sprinkles.

45 – Kite flying

Use a kite as a prop for a playful, outdoor theme.

46 – Lemonade stand

Set up a mini lemonade stand for a summer photo.

47 – Rainbow Colours

Use a rainbow backdrop or props to create a vibrant, colourful photo.

48 – Tea party

Create a tea party scene with mini teacups and treats.

49 – Under the stars

Use a night sky backdrop with stars and a moon for a dreamy photo.

50 – Xylophone fun

Incorporate a xylophone and musical notes for a musical theme.

51 – Yellow sunshine

Use bright yellow props and a sunny backdrop to create a cheerful photo.

52 – Gingham style

Use gingham-patterned props and outfits for a classic look.

53 – Hobby time

Include props related to family hobbies, like sports or cooking.

54 – Jewel tones

Use rich, vibrant colours to create striking and beautiful photos.

55 – Keepsake box

Include keepsakes and mementoes in the photo to highlight special memories.

56 – Merry-Go-Round

Create a carousel-themed photo with colourful horses and carnival elements.

57 – Nature baby

Capture your baby in natural surroundings, like a garden or park.

58 – Retro fun

Use retro props and outfits to create a nostalgic theme.

59 – Sibling love

Include siblings in the photos to capture their bond and interactions.

60 – Toyland

Surround your baby with their favourite toys for a playful photo.

61 – Vintage toys

Use old-fashioned toys to create a vintage-themed photo.

62 – Xoxo

Create a hugs and kisses theme with XOXO props.

63 – Year in review

Create a collage or compilation of the year’s best photos.

64 – Zany hats

Feature your baby in a different, fun hat each month.

65 – Birthday cake

Celebrate with a mini birthday cake for your baby.

66 – Costume party

Dress your baby in different costumes each month for a fun series.

69 – Dreamy clouds

Use a soft cloud backdrop for a dreamy, ethereal photo.

70 – Farm friends

Include farm animal props and set up a mini farm scene.

71 – Gardening Baby

Capture your baby in a garden setting with flowers and plants.

72 – Island breeze

Create a tropical scene with palm leaves and beach props.

Organising your baby photos

As you capture your baby’s growth month by month, it’s a good idea to organise the photos from the offset, so you can easily access the photos when you need to. Here are some of baby’s monthly picture tips to help you manage your growing collection of baby photos:

Digital photo management

Create specific folders on your computer for each month or milestone. For example, have folders labelled “Month 1,” “Month 2,” etc.

Within each folder, use tags to identify special moments or themes, like “first smile,” “Halloween,” or “family time.” This will make it easier to locate specific photos later on.

If you have a Mac, you can check out a guide on how to create folders on a Mac to help you get started here: https://setapp.com/how-to/make-folder-on-mac.

Cloud storage solutions

Use cloud storage services like Dropbox, Google Photos or iCloud to back up your photos. These platforms offer the convenience of accessing your photos from any device.

Google Photos, for example, allows you to create albums, share photos with family, and even search for specific images using AI-powered search features.

Regularly upload and organise your photos to keep your collection up-to-date and secure.

Creating a digital photo album

Use software like Adobe Lightroom or apps like Shutterfly to create digital photo albums. These tools offer templates and customisation options to make your album unique. Include captions and dates to document important details and milestones.

Arrange your photos chronologically or by significant events, such as their first step or first birthday. This will create a coherent narrative of your baby’s first year. You can also use thematic sections within the album to highlight special occasions and monthly milestones.

Printing and displaying photos

Choose high-quality printing services so your photos look their best. Online services like Printique or local photo labs can offer excellent results. Consider printing a few standout photos in larger sizes for framing and display.

Creative display ideas for month-to-month baby pictures at home

You can create a photo wall with a timeline of your baby’s first year. Use a mix of framed photos and canvas prints to add variety.

Use a photo baby book to compile your monthly photos into a beautiful keepsake. These books can be customised with text and embellishments to tell your baby story of their first year.

Consider making a photo calendar with a picture for each month, which can serve as both a keepsake and a functional item.

Be consistent

Select a specific day each month to take your baby’s photos. This could be the same date each month or the same day of the week. Consistency helps create a coherent series of photos that clearly show your baby’s growth and development over time.

Use the same or similar backgrounds and props each month to create a unified look. This could be a favourite monthly milestone blanket, a specific chair like a rocking chair (if it’s safe), or a particular setting in your home. Consistency in props and backgrounds highlights the changes in your baby rather than the surroundings.

Engage your baby and make it fun

Keep the photo sessions light and enjoyable for your baby. Use toys, songs, or funny faces to grab their attention and make them smile. A happy baby will result in more natural and joyful photos.

Don’t stress about getting the perfect pose every time. Some of the best photos come from candid moments when your baby is simply being themselves. Keep your camera ready to capture spontaneous smiles, giggles, and curious expressions.

Editing and enhancing photos

After taking your photos, use basic editing tools to enhance the images. Adjust the brightness, contrast, and colour balance to make your photos pop. Cropping can help eliminate any distracting elements in the background.

There are several apps available that can make photo editing easy and fun. Apps like Adobe Lightroom, Snapseed, and VSCO offer a range of editing tools that can help you enhance your baby’s photos with just a few taps. These apps often include filters and presets that can give your photos a professional look.

FAQ Section

1. Can you please provide some 1-month baby picture ideas?

For one-month-old baby picture ideas, consider using cosy setups like a soft blanket or a plush cushion. Include simple props like a milestone marker, a tiny stuffed animal, or a themed outfit. Capture your sleeping baby or them gazing up at the camera for natural, heartwarming photos.

2. Any 1-month-old baby girl picture ideas?

Baby girl monthly photo ideas can include dressing your baby girl in a cute outfit, like a floral dress or a pastel onesie. Use props like a headband, soft toys, or a pretty blanket. Consider themes like princesses, butterflies, or seasonal flowers to add a feminine touch for the perfect one-month baby picture! 

3. I need 1-month-old baby photography ideas please

Use natural lighting near a window for soft, flattering photos. Place your baby on a simple, textured blanket to keep the focus on them. Capture close-ups of their tiny hands and feet or candid moments of them yawning or stretching.

4. Are you a new parent? What are some photoshoot ideas at home for a one-month-old Baby?

Set up a cosy spot with a soft blanket and pillows and use natural light from a window. Include props like milestone cards, toys, or a favourite food or outfit. Capture different angles and expressions, and don’t forget to include family members in some shots.

5. How do I celebrate our 6-month-old baby’s birthday?

Create a small, free intimate celebration at home with family and decorate with balloons, a banner, and a small cake. Take photos of your baby with birthday props like a “6 Months of Life” milestone marker, and capture moments of them interacting with their surroundings.

6. How do I do a baby photoshoot at home?

For monthly photoshoot ideas for baby boy choose a well-lit area, preferably with natural light. Set up a simple background with a blanket or sheet and use props that are meaningful or fun. Take multiple shots from different angles, using a smartphone or camera with good resolution. You can edit the photos lightly for brightness and contrast afterwards for the perfect monthly milestone photoshoots

7. How do I make my baby monthly pictures?

Select a consistent spot and background for each monthly photo. Use milestone markers like blankets, blocks, or stickers and dress your baby in different outfits each month to highlight their growth. Capture your baby’s personality by photographing them in natural, candid moments.

8. How do I photograph a newborn baby? Any ideas on how to photograph them?

Keep the room warm and comfortable and use natural light to avoid harsh shadows. Capture your baby in simple poses, like sleeping or being held. Focus on details like tiny fingers and toes and use soft blankets and minimal props to keep the focus on your baby.

9. How should I celebrate baby’s 1st birthday as we don’t have any friends to throw a party for?

Create a special day at home with family. Decorate with balloons and a birthday banner and bake a small cake or cupcake for your baby. Take lots of photos to commemorate the day. Plan activities that your baby enjoys, like a favourite game or toy. A cake smash is a fun and simple way to celebrate your baby’s first photo and make for great photos!

10. What are some clever newborn photography ideas?

Use creative props like baskets, wooden crates, or themed blankets and capture close-ups of your baby’s tiny features. Include elements like fairy lights or flowers for a unique touch. Try different angles and perspectives to add variety to the shots as well.

11. What are some creative maternity photography ideas?

Incorporate nature by taking photos in a park or garden. Use props like baby shoes or ultrasound photos and wear flowing dresses that highlight the baby bump. Include your partner or an older sibling for family-themed shots and experiment with silhouettes and backlighting for dramatic effects.

12. What are some cute poses for a newborn photography session?

Place your baby on their tummy with their hands under their chin. Capture them sleeping on their back with legs curled up and take close-up shots of their face while they are sleeping. Include props like a soft toy or a cosy blanket.

13. What are some good baby boy photoshoot ideas?

Use boy-themed props like toy cars, blocks, or sports items and dress your baby boy in cute outfits like overalls or a bow tie. Create a themed setup, such as a mini camping scene or a little superhero backdrop.

14. What are some ideas for a baby girl’s first birthday party and her mom’s second wedding anniversary baby shower combined in one celebration?

Combine themes like “Princess and Love” to celebrate both events and use decorations in matching colours, such as pink and gold. Have a joint cake with sections dedicated to each celebration and include activities that are fun for both adults and kids, like a photo booth or a craft station, which you can get from any craft store.

15. What are some of the best ideas for a 1-month-old’s birthday?

Even though it’s early, you can mark the one-month milestone with a small celebration. Use a cute “1 Month” sign or milestone card and dress your baby in a special outfit. Take lots of photos and include simple decorations like balloons or a banner.

16. What are the best memory-keeping ideas to do for a baby?

Create a digital photo album with monthly milestones and keep a baby journal to document important moments and milestones. Creative ways could include making a memory box with keepsakes like your baby’s hospital bracelet, first shoes, and favourite toys. Regularly print and frame special photos to display at home.

17. What settings should I use for newborn photography?

Use a low ISO (around 100-400) to avoid graininess. Set a wide aperture (f/2.8 to f/4) to create a soft background blur and use a fast shutter speed (1/200 or faster) to capture sharp images, especially if your baby moves. Adjust the white balance to match the lighting conditions.

18. When to take monthly baby photos?

Take your baby’s monthly photos on the same date each month, such as their birth date. Choose a time of day when your baby is usually in a good mood and well-rested, such as after a nap or feeding. Consistency in timing will help you capture their growth accurately.

19. Why do many people on the internet use baby photos as their icons or profile pictures? 

People often use baby photos as their icons or profile pictures to showcase their pride and joy. It’s a great way to share the happiness and innocence associated with babies. These photos also attract positive attention and engagement from friends and family.

20. Why do new parents get professional photoshoots basically naked with their newborns?

Newborn photoshoots with a professional photographer often feature minimal clothing to highlight the baby’s pure and natural state. This style of photography focuses on the bond between the parent and baby, emphasising skin-to-skin contact which is comforting for the baby and creates intimate, timeless images.

21. Why do people cover their baby’s face in pictures?

Some parents cover their baby’s face in pictures to protect their privacy. It’s a way to share moments without exposing the baby’s identity for security reasons. This can be especially important on public social media platforms.

22. Why shouldn’t we take a photo of a newborn baby?

Certain cultures and beliefs hold that taking photos of a newborn can bring bad luck or unwanted attention. It’s always important to respect cultural practices and beliefs. If there are no such concerns, taking photos is generally safe and a wonderful way to capture memories.

23. What is the best age to get professional newborn photography? 

The ideal age for professional newborn photography is 5 to 14 days old. At this age, babies are more sleepy and easier to pose in those adorable, curly positions. It’s also a great time to capture the baby’s name and details in the photos. You can also start those monthly baby photo ideas from this age to create a beautiful monthly photo series.

24. What app do you use for newborn monthly pictures? 

There are several great apps for capturing and organising monthly baby photos. Baby Pics is a popular choice, offering creative monthly baby photo ideas to add artwork and text to your baby’s pictures. Another excellent app is Tinybeans, which allows you to create a digital photo album, track milestones, and share updates with family and friends. These apps are great at helping you manage milestone baby photos and generate unique monthly baby photo ideas effortlessly.

25. Is it wrong to tell my family not to post my newborn baby’s pictures on social media? 

It is not wrong to ask your family not to post your baby’s pictures on social media. As a new mum, you have the right to control your baby’s digital footprint and ensure their privacy. You should discuss your concerns with your family and emphasise that you’re looking for a better way to protect your child’s privacy. Sharing baby’s photos should be your choice, and setting boundaries is perfectly acceptable.

26. Is it okay for an adult to post pictures of their babies on social media? 

Yes, it is okay for adults to post pictures of their babies on social media, as long as they take necessary precautions. Using privacy settings to control who can see the photos and avoiding sharing too much personal information can help protect your baby. Posting cute creative ideas for monthly baby pictures and milestone baby photos can be a fun way to share your baby’s growth, but always prioritise safety and privacy. Make sure your baby is in a safe environment, such as a cosy chair or with safe props like a Moses basket or a milestone blanket, before sharing online.

Final thoughts

Capturing monthly baby photos is a wonderful way to document your baby’s growth and milestones throughout their first year. Use the right tools and equipment, create themed and simple photo ideas, and organise your photos efficiently, so you can create a beautiful collection of memories. Remember, consistency in taking photos and engaging your baby can make each session enjoyable and successful.

So, don’t wait any longer and start capturing your baby’s precious moments now. Whether you use a camera or a smartphone, natural light or softbox lights, the key is to start and stay consistent. These photos will become cherished keepsakes, allowing you to look back and remember those fleeting early days.

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