Mamas with babies contact me a lot. And I LOVE all of it - from the pregnant belly bump to the squishy newborn baby to the toddling 12-month old celebrating her first birthday. These are traditional milestones that parents definitely want to capture. After all, the first year goes so quickly, and they’re only little once.

But they’re also only seven once, and only twelve once, and sixteen ….

And trust me. Those years go just as quickly, if not more so, than the first year.

I stare into the face of my 17-year-old, and try to catch a glimpse of the little boy I remember so clearly - because it honestly feels like yesterday that he was starting school, and playing t-ball and preparing for his first sleep over.

You are definitely going to want to remember what your preteen’s smile looked like, and how her style reflected her personality … and all of those expressions she gives you (yes, even the eye rolls will make you laugh one day).

In some ways, sessions with little kids may be easier. You can pick out their clothing. You can get smiles by tossing them in the air and telling fart jokes (ok, that one may work with big kids too). But big kids like to play too. They still love to be teased - and you might even get away with a tickle or two!

Ring Around the Rosie may be replaced with Flossing ….

But there will still be plenty of hugs

and kisses to remind you of how sweet they are! (And sometimes, when they’re talking back and complaining about how unfair everything is - you’re going to need these photos to remind you of their sweetness)!

Older kids bring a special touch to sessions, because they help plan them! Incorporating their favorite items or passions puts a unique spin on the session.

Plus, big kids don’t need me to make funny faces or play peek-a-boo to get them to smile! They are already awesome just by being themselves.

I know it can be hard to find time for a session with older children and teens. Their days are filled with sports practices, music rehearsals, friends and so much more. But you will treasure these memories.

Don’t let time slip by without documenting them! You will be so glad you did!