Ever wished you could capture your older baby’s cheeky grins or milestone moments but feel stuck with wiggly tots or a chaotic home? I’ve been there—newbie days, chasing a crawler, stressing over blurry shots. After 10+ years, hundreds of bubs, and workshops with world-class pros, I’ve got quick hacks (what those workshops skipped!) to snap stunning photos in a snap, no fancy gear needed! These work for mums, beginners, and pros—phone only or DSLR, at home or studio. My free 30-min masterclass video will have you shooting like a pro in less than 30 mins!
Why Milestone Photos Win Hearts
Capturing older babies (3–12 months) creates cherished memories, wows family, and fills albums. It’s every mum’s dream to have a cute babies first year album! These hacks deliver:
- Fast: 5 minutes to shoot—no hours chasing.
- Easy: Just your phone and a toy—no pricey props!
- Wow: Gorgeous shots—mums treasure moments, pros land bookings!
Others might say you need a studio or expert skills—nah, my way’s simple, effective, and nails it. Let’s snap those milestone moments!
1. Use a Toy to Grab Attention
Struggle: Wiggly babies won’t stay still.
Fix: Hold a colorful toy (like a rattle) or get bubs to hold pretty flowers (like in pic below) then hold a rattle above your phone to catch bub’s gaze, sparking a cheeky smile. Sit them on a blanket in soft window light. Try my free masterclass for quick posing tips.
Tip: Shake the toy gently—big laughs or an intrigued gauze guaranteed!

2. Pose on a Cozy Surface
Struggle: Active babies topple or crawl away.
Fix: Place bub on a cushy rug or beanbag with a neutral blanket to keep them comfy and contained. Try tummy time or propped sitting for 6-month-olds mum or dad can hold them on their lap too! My $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course builds confidence to soothe even the fussiest bubs, ensuring calm shoots for milestone magic!
Tip: Add a folded towel under the blanket for extra support!

3. Capture Action with Burst Mode
Struggle: Blurry shots miss fleeting moments.
Fix: Use your phone’s burst mode (hold the shutter) to snap crawling or giggling in action. Pick the sharpest shot later. Edit with my $27 Mobile Presets for vibrant pops. My $179 course dives into my action-shot secrets for frame-worthy 0–12-month pics!
Tip: Shoot in a clutter-free corner—keeps focus on bub!

4. The Pro Secret – The Milestone Lock (Tease!)
Struggle: Missing those fast-fading milestones.
Fix: Here’s my trick: toys, cozy poses, and burst mode capture older babies’ magic in minutes—mums and pros raved about my lively galleries! My Free Masterclass will have you shooting like a pro in less time than your little one’s nap, plus you’ll master styling, lighting, and calming, inspired by Sheyne Rowley – here’s our incredible interview with Sheyne here!
Tip: Want more? My free masterclass will have you nailing milestone shots in 30 mins—click below!
Level Up with My Free Masterclass!
These hacks are your milestone starters, but want pro-level secrets to dazzle family or clients? My free masterclass for at-home or professional shots covers:
- Posing hacks—cute curls, safe and simple.
- Lighting hacks—no gear, just glow.
- Baby-calming moves—peaceful shots every time.
It’s 30 minutes to stunning pics—phone or DSLR—mums save memories, pros get happy customers! Join the free video here —you’ll be so glad you did! Imagine—in 30 minutes, you’ll know what you need to take beautiful baby photos + 12 months and beyond!
My $179 course (reg. $359, worth $579) covers 0-12 months, tricky toddlers, messy homes, and more—get the full course here but for the special price of $179 see the Masterclass first or you’ll pay full price.
With styling, posing, lighting, calming, and sleep tips from The Gentle Sleep Specialist Tara.