6 Month Milestone Sessions: Why It’s More Important Than You Think: Petra King Photography

The newborn stage may be behind you, but at 6 months, your baby is full of charm. This is one of the most overlooked—but truly special—milestones. If you are on the fence whether to just skip 6 months, here are 4 milestone photo tips why you should.

1. Why 6 Months is Magical

At this age, babies full personality is evident. Newly learned skills like, sitting up unassisted, engaging expressions and playful curiosity. Plus, babies are just so cute at this stage, chubby cheeks and legs, It’s the best age for baby photos. One of my favourite details I include for mom and dad is a profile picture of baby looking at mom/dad. It’s amazing to look back at how beautiful your little one really is.

2. What to Expect at the Studio

Our cozy, temperature-controlled studio is perfect for capturing these early expressions. Sessions are gentle and calm with plenty of time for feeding and snuggles. I make sure that your little one is comfortable with me first before I bring out the camera. Babies are funny at this age, once I pop behind the camera sometimes their expression changes when they can’t see me. But don’t worry…I am always acting silly to get the most genuine photos for you.

3. Styling Tips

Think soft knits, neutral tones, and delicate textures. You’re welcome to use our studio wardrobe or bring sentimental items from home. I love including a stuffy or fav blanket that is your baby’s favourite.

4. Making the Most of the Session

Bring a pacifier, a favourite swaddle, and don’t worry if your baby needs breaks—we work around them, not the clock. I am a parent too and a happy, content and relaxed baby make for the BEST gummy smiles and heartfelt expressions. So there you have it, 6 month baby photography in Durham Region is easy, and affordable too!

Don’t just wait for the big milestones—6 months deserves its moment. Let’s capture this beautiful stage together.

Click the link above to schedule your session or gift one to someone who deserves the gift of memories.

Your Guide to Maternity & Baby Photos in Durham Region: Petra King Photography I Maternity + Baby + Wedding Photographer

As a Motherhood Photographer who has been serving the Toronto, Durham Region and GTA for the last 19 years, I know that when it comes to booking your maternity and baby’s photos can feel overwhelming. Especially in this oversaturated market. That’s why I’ve created this guide to help you feel fully prepared and excited for your session.

1. Why Booking Your Maternity & Baby Session Early Matters:

   It’s always a great idea to reach out early to book your session. Our natural light Maternity & Baby home studio in Durham Region fills quickly- especially for families looking for timeless, heartfelt photos in a peaceful space. Pre-booking also allows us to plan for your session so your vision comes to life. My natural light home studio is a year round favourite for it’s calm, bright atmosphere. I can’t wait to see what ideas you have in store to tell your story.

   
   

2. A Studio Designed With Moms In Mind:

   If you are new here, welcome! My studio is bright, peaceful and designed to take the stress out of your session. We are a full service studio. hair and makeup can be added on to your session, client wardrobe is included for mom and baby and details around the studio are strategically placed for ease and comfort. Our signature all natural studio scent and refreshments are available so that you feel at ease so genuine moments unfold naturally. While serving the Durham Region and Toronto area, our reach spans from the GTA to Brighton

3. Keep It Simple, Soft And Timeless:

If you prefer to wear something from home that is okay too. A few quick tips to help guide your decisions on what to wear for maternity photos. Neutral tones, soft fabrics and coordinating outfits (rather than matching) always photograph beautifully. As mentioned earlier, I do offer a client wardrobe for mom and baby, that is timeless, flattering and comfortable. So you don’t need to shop unless you want to. Whether you’re planning for your maternity session in Durham Region or a baby milestone photo shoot, my client wardrobe ensures you feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera.

4. How to Prepare Yourself For Your Session:

No need for perfection! Book your session, review the pre arrival email I send out and arrive at the studio :) I encourage my clients to relax and simply just be. I guide all my clients with gentle prompts that create a natural, relaxed photo session experience, perfect for capturing connection and joy. Your gallery will be filled with heartfelt and true moments for your family heirloom.

5. After The Session: What’s Next-

You’ll receive a curated online gallery within 7-10 days. Many families who visit my Durham Region baby photo studio choose heirloom fine art prints, wall galleries and linen folios to preserve their memories with beauty and intention. The products look beautiful in your home and become treasures for years to come. You can ask me about these products at any time and samples are available in the studio for you to experience yourself.

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Ready to plan your maternity or baby session in Durham Region? Let’s create calm, beautiful and meaningful images you’ll treasure forever. My natural light home studio is located in N. Oshawa and offers a full-service experience tailored to growing families.

Contact me today to book your maternity or baby milestone session

The Journey from Maternity to Newborn: Capturing every step I Petra King Photography

There’s a quiet kind of magic in the days before baby arrives — the curve of your belly, the anticipation, the stillness. And then, in what feels like a heartbeat, everything changes. Your baby is in your arms, and a new chapter begins and if this is your first, it’s exciting and scary at the same time.

This journey — from bump to baby — is unlike anything else. And it’s worth preserving in a way that feels honest, timeless, and truly you.

In today’s blog post, I’m sharing how I document this incredible transformation for the families I work with, and how you can plan your own maternity and newborn sessions to tell your story beautifully.

1: Why Document Both Maternity + Newborn Stages?

• The maternity season celebrates your strength, glow, and anticipation

• Newborn sessions capture the earliest days: soft details, sleepy snuggles, first connections

• These moments pass quickly — and they only happen once

• Having both sessions tells a full story: where it started and what you brought into the world. Think of it as your family storyline

“This isn’t just about photographs. It’s about remembering how it felt — to wait, to wonder, to hold.””

2: What the Bump-to-Baby Experience Looks Like

Maternity Session Includes:

• Captured in my cozy, light-filled studio (or on location)

• Wardrobe options to flatter and simplify your prep

• Easy, guided posing that highlights your natural beauty

• A calming space to feel seen and celebrated

Newborn Session Includes:

• Held in the same serene studio setting for consistency

• Baby-led posing — no rush, no pressure

• Wraps, simple props, and gentle posing for timeless imagery

• Parents and siblings included if desired

3: Why My Clients Love Booking Both

• Your images will feel cohesive and curated

• It removes the stress of finding separate photographers

• You’ll already know what to expect and feel at ease

• Bundled packages offer extra savings + priority booking

“I didn’t realize how special it would be to see both sets of images side-by-side — it made me tear up.”

4: When to Schedule Your Sessions

• Maternity: Ideal between 28–34 weeks

• Newborn: Best within the first 7–14 days after birth

• Booking both at once ensures a seamless, stress-free timeline

5: Ready to Begin Your Journey?

You’re growing a new life — and that deserves to be remembered.

Whether you’re counting kicks or cuddling your newborn already, I’d love to help you tell this story from beginning to beginning. Studio maternity and newborn sessions can be pre booked, and gifted. Gift certificates are available in studio. Just let me know at the time of booking if you’d like us to prepare one for you.

Explore my Maternity Portfolio and Baby Milestones Portfolio

Or reach out to start planning your own bump-to-baby experience.

Why Every Milestone Matters: Documenting Your Baby’s First Year.

As a mama, you already know it—the days are long, but the years are short. From your baby’s first sleepy stretch to their first smile, laugh, and tiny steps, the first year is a whirlwind of change. Milestone photography is not a trend — it’s a way to pause time and hold onto those fleeting moments you’ll never get back. For as long as I can remember, photographs and photography have been in my life. I am so thankful that my parents valued the importance (and beauty) in a photograph.

If you’re wondering when or why to document your baby’s growth in their first year, here’s what I always tell moms in my studio: babies don’t keep, but your memories can.

1. Why Milestone Sessions Are So Important

Each milestone marks a story — and those stories deserve to be told. While it might seem like a blur now, you’ll one day look back and be amazed at how quickly your little one changed. Capturing these milestones gives you:

• Tangible memories in the form of heirloom-quality photographs or an album to flip through

• A visual timeline of their growth and personality emerging. Along with the silly quirks or things they used to do

• Something to share with your child as they grow up. I STILL love to look through old pictures. Laugh and connect over a simple photo

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2. The First-Year Milestone Timeline

Every baby is different, but here are the typical stages many families choose to document:

• Maternity (28–34 weeks) – capturing the glow and anticipation

• Newborn (5–14 days) – curled up, sleepy, brand new (or wide awake and curious)

• 6-8 Months (Sitter Stage) – sitting up, exploring, big smiles, newly learned skills

• 12 Months – first steps, personality, cake smash or classic portraits

These aren’t just photo ops — they’re little chapters of your baby’s story.

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3. What Makes Studio Milestone Sessions So Special

At Petra King Photography, I’ve created a calm, light-filled space for families to slow down and simply be present. My studio wardrobe includes soft, neutral clothing for both mom and baby, and my minimalist setups ensure that your baby is always the focus.

You don’t need to worry about props or Pinterest-worthy outfits — just show up with your little one, and I’ll take care of the rest.

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4. A Legacy That Lasts

Milestone photos become part of your family’s visual legacy. Whether framed in your home, gifted to grandparents, or printed in a baby album — these images are a love letter to your child’s first year.

It’s more than photography. It’s your legacy, their story, and your heart captured in every image.

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Ready to Start Your Baby’s Story?

Whether you’re expecting or your baby is already here, it’s never too late to begin. My maternity and milestone sessions are designed to be stress-free, timeless, and deeply personal.

Book your session today or view the Baby Milestone Gallery to see what’s possible.

I can’t wait to document your Baby’s First Year for you!

Want to remember your baby’s soft curls, squsihy arms and how perfectly they fit into your arms? Let’s preserve this season together with a custom studio session.

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Petra King Photography’s studio celebrates Baby Milestones in the Oshawa, Bowmanville, Courtice, Whitby, Durham Region, Toronto, GTA and surrounding areas.

How to plan a Relaxed Intimate Wedding in Toronto & Durham Region

Are you getting married in 2025 or 2026? Huge congrats to you! I am sure you are both still grinning from ear to ear and rightly so! It’s such an exciting time. It is also an overwhelming time but it doesn’t have to be. This blog post will help you consider an Intimate/Micro Wedding. One that still has the wow factor but is budget-friendly and less stress! Heck yea!

I promise to include practical tips to help you as a couple plan a meaningful, low stress day within the Durham Region and Toronto area.

1. Start with What Matters Most

   It’s important to define your core values. Things that matter most to you both (ie: connections, family and location)

   Before diving into guest lists or table settings, pause and reflect: What do we want to feel on our wedding day? Is it peaceful? Joyful? Private? Write down your non-negotiables — like personal vows, a private first look, or having your dog walk down the aisle — and let those values guide every decision from here.

2. Choose a Venue That Feels Like You

The right space sets the tone. Skip oversized banquet halls and opt for venues that feel personal. Think of Boutique Hotels, Gardens, Private Estates

or Backyard Weddings. A few stunning options in Toronto and Durham Region include the following below. These smaller venues often

allow more flexibility with timelines, decor, and layout — all helping you stay relaxed. Here are a few local venues in Toronto and the

Durham Region that suit small weddings. The Lake House, Heintzman House, Bellamy Loft, Bloom Field Gardens, Harding Waterfront Estate,

The Hartman.

3. Create a Small, Meaningful Guest List

A smaller guest list opens the door to elevated experiences. Imagine fewer introductions and more quality time and can fit your budget better.

You can treat your guests to custom cocktails, a chef-prepared dinner, or even handwritten notes at each place setting.

4. Simplify Your Wedding Day Timeline

One of the biggest perks of an intimate wedding? No rush. You can sleep in, enjoy a slow breakfast, and get ready without the chaos.

Here’s a simple relaxed sample timeline:

• 2 PM: First look

• 3 PM: Ceremony

• 4 PM: Portraits + cocktails

• 6 PM: Dinner + toasts

• 8 PM: Cake, dancing, or fireside chill

Eliminate traditions that don’t feel right for you — like bouquet tosses or overly structured entrances — and build your own rhythm.

5. Work with Vendors Who Specialize in Intimate Celebrations

It is SO important to hire a Photographer (like myself) who knows how to document quiet, in-between moments.

I highly recommend that you speak to your potential photographer to make sure they are the right fit for you and your family,

You want someone who is invested in you and your day. One who is relatable and not just there for another gig.

I recommend doing your research for Wedding Florists ( like Aspen Florist) who have been in the business for over a decade and provide

the BEST customer service from start to finish, not to mention the highest quality in blooms. Planners like One in a Million Events will help

curate the most beautiful Wedding Day for you with the utmost care and detail.

6. Add Personal Touches That Reflect Your Story

The beauty of a small wedding is that you can do things your way. Write your own vows, choose a ceremony reading that’s deeply personal, or

wear a family heirloom. One couple I photographed in Durham shared tea after their ceremony to honour their heritage — it was the most grounding

and beautiful moment of the day.

7. Bonus Tips for Relaxed Planning

If you aren’t using a planner, consider hiring a day of co-ordinator.

Do a first look to calm the nerves

Create a no-pressure photo list or better yet, leave that up to your Photographer.

Leave time for just the two of you post ceremony. Bridal Portraits/Photos can be done during this time, or if weather allows sneak off for Golden Hour Photos.

Whether you’re planning a Toronto elopement, a backyard celebration in the Durham Region, or a cozy wedding in a lakeside venue, the best intimate weddings are the ones that feel like you. Looking for a photographer who specializes in small, heartfelt weddings? Reach out Here or Browse my Portfolio. I’d love to help you slow down, soak it in, and preserve every beautiful moment.

Congratulations and I can’t wait to document your Wedding Day for you both!

Wedding Venue: Harding Waterfront Estate

Wedding Florist & Chapel Designer: Aspen Florist

Photography: Petra King Photography & Whitney Heard

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Petra King Photography specializes in Weddings and Intimate/Mirco Weddings in the Oshawa, Bowmanville, Courtice, Whitby, Durham Region, Toronto, GTA and surrounding areas.

Newborn Baby Girl: Petra King Photography I Maternity + Baby + Wedding Photographer

The journey of documenting life’s most important milestones never loses its magic. From maternity and newborn sessions to first birthday’s and beyond, it s a privilege to preserve these moments for my clients. Every chapter tells a story and I’m honoured to help you hold onto the memories that matter most.

There’s something truly magical about welcoming a new life into the world. Those first few days with your newborn are a whirlwind of emotions—overwhelming love, quiet wonder, and the incredible realization that life will never be the same. These fleeting moments pass in the blink of an eye, and before you know it, your tiny baby will be stretching, growing, and changing every day. Or wondering where the time has gone as your youngest is now in University!

That’s why I am so passionate about portrait photography. It’s more than just taking pictures—it’s about preserving the feeling of these early days, the softness of tiny fingers wrapped around yours, the peaceful expressions as they sleep, and the love that fills the room. These are the moments you’ll want to hold onto forever.

What sets me photography sessions apart? I create a warm, relaxed, and safe environment where both baby and parents can feel at ease. You are family when you walk into the studio. With a soft, timeless, and natural approach, I focus on capturing the purity and beauty of your baby without distractions. Simple and natural. Every detail, from the gentle posing to the delicate textures and soft lighting, is designed to highlight the love and connection that makes your family unique.

As a portrait photographer with a career that spans the last 19 years, I have the privilege of documenting life’s most cherished milestonesThank you for the —maternity, newborn, first birthdays , family sessions and beyond. It’s not just about capturing images; it’s about telling your family’s story, celebrating each chapter, and preserving the emotions that come with them.

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If you’re expecting and want to document the first precious days of your baby’s life, I would be honoured to create timeless images for you. Let’s capture these moments together before they slip away. Contact the studio today to book your session. I generally suggest to book at least 2-3 months in advance as we do sell out quickly.

Now booking for our Spring and Summer Calendar newborn sessions! Reach out to reserve your session today.

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Petra King Photography’s studio celebrates Baby Milestones in the Oshawa, Bowmanville, Courtice, Whitby, Durham Region, Toronto, GTA and surrounding areas.