Guides

A Birthday Photoshoot to Remember: Portraits That Last for Years

A milestone birthday, an anniversary, a new chapter. Or simply a moment when you want to hold on to yourself as you are now. A birthday or keepsake photoshoot is a gift you can give yourself or someone close to you, and it lasts for years: in an album, on a wall, in a presentation box.

Key takeaways

• You don’t need an occasion, but an occasion is a good excuse.
• You choose the style: fine art portrait, boudoir, sensual or nude.
• A keepsake lives best in print: prints, an album, a piece for the wall.
• Book ahead, as I photograph only one session a day.
• A session can be given or received as a voucher, valid for 12 months.

30, 40, 50 and every birthday in between

Every age has its own story. One birthday calls for something bold, another for a calm, self-assured portrait. There are no rules. I write about sessions over 40 in Boudoir and portrait photoshoots over 40.

A birthday is also a good reason if you’ve wanted a session for years but something more important always came first.

Which style?

• Fine art portrait: calm, timeless, a lovely keepsake for you and your family. See Fine art portrait photography.
• Boudoir: intimate, for yourself. See What is a boudoir photoshoot.
• Sensual or nude: for women who want something more artistic and bold.

Styles can be combined: some images clothed, some more intimate. We’ll find what draws you in the consultation.

A keepsake you can hold

Photos on a phone get lost among thousands of others. A keepsake you can hold in your hands stays. That’s why the packages include physical products:

• La Maison: 15 images and prints in an elegant presentation box.
• La Couture: 25 images and a handmade fine art album or a large-format piece on acrylic or canvas.
• L’Atelier Privé: the full digital collection, an heirloom album and a large-format piece.

Details and prices on the pricing page.

How to prepare

• Something personal: jewellery from someone close, a book, flowers, a dress that means something. Objects like these often become the most important frames.
• Clothes: whatever feels like you. From La Maison up, you can also use the atelier wardrobe.
• Makeup and hair: included from La Maison up.

After booking you receive a personal preparation guide. More in What to bring to a boudoir shoot.

When to book

I photograph one session a day, so if a specific date matters, such as your actual birthday, get in touch early. The session doesn’t have to fall on the day itself, though; a day before or after can be calmer.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to know how to pose?

No. I guide every pose and expression.

Can I give a birthday session to someone close to me?

Yes. The voucher is valid for 12 months, and she chooses the date and style herself. See Boudoir gift voucher.

How long is the session?

Two to four hours, depending on the package.

Will the photos be published anywhere?

No, not without your written consent. Your photos are yours.

If you’re planning a birthday session, write to me. A message isn’t a booking, just the start of a conversation.