A guide to preserving your child’s portrait history:
The milestones of childhood can never be repeated but they can be captured in portraits that tell the story of a child’s growing up ….. as he or she passes through a series of stages ….. moving ever closer toward adulthood.
Many clients tell us they regret not having more portraits made as their children grew up. It’s not that they didn’t value childhood portraits, they simply led busy lives, and the years just slipped by. That’s why we’ve created a structured plan to help parents recognize the most important times to have their children photographed. The “7 Ages of Childhood” – times that mark the most significant changes along the path from infancy to young adulthood.
Newborn to 1 Year Old- babies are fresh, new human beings-totally dependent on the important people in their lives. Preserve this time of newness. At no time in your child’s life will physical changes occur so rapidly. In what seems like the blink of an eye, a tiny, helpless bundle is transformed into an active robust and inquisitive youngster.
Age 2 to 3 Years Old – the toddler now responds to reason, humor and action. Totally unpredictable, but always adorable …. Expect them to be lovable, shy, rowdy, or reserved – as they begin to explore the world around them …. Here one minute and gone the next!!
Age 4 to 5 Years Old – one of the cutest, most engaging ages for little boys and girls, the ability to speak and reason grow stronger every day. Searching for their place in the world, they have already developed personal interests, likes and dislikes. Their individuality of character and action should be portrayed before the baby teeth are lost and replaced by permanent ones … forever altering the endearing look of early childhood.
Age 6 to 8 Years Old – A developing mind reveals a more mature, inquiring look. Now off to school and making their way in the world … There is so much to learn!! Portraits made at this age help to confirm a child’s positive self image.
Age 9 to 12 Years Old – As the child prepares to enter teenage years, physical, emotional and attitude changes occur. The little person you have known 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 expanding horizons.
Age 13 to 15 Years Old – The early teenage years – a kind of dress rehearsal for adulthood – have begun to erase memories of childhood. The boy is almost a man …. In his interests, his attitudes, and thinking. Carefree years … yet ones that anticipate the challenges of adulthood on the horizon. The young woman has begun to blossom into womanhood. Still a lifetime of growing and learning ahead … but never again a child.
Planning the most precious investments you’ll ever make …….
…. An investment in the lifetime of your child.
