Ellie Turns 3 in this Golden, Outdoor Milestone Session

When I was in my early college days I worked at a photography studio in a mall. The sessions we did were the absolute opposite of anything an outdoor milestone session offers. Now don’t get me wrong – little studios like that have their place, and I learned a lot from working there – but putting a toddler criss cross applesauce on a white backdrop and having them fake smile at the camera just isn’t my jam.

There is something about letting a 3 year old loose in a pretty field to explore, dance, and spin that brings out the spirit in them. 3 year olds are curious. They’re wild. They crave freedom and support all at the same time. I love to do milestone sessions outdoors because toddlers are instantly set at ease. I can sit back and observe with my camera while they come alive.

 

Turning 3 During a Pandemic

Ellie turned 3 right before quarantine hit. I’m so glad we were able to have her little birthday party before we found out we all had to separate – but the weeks after her birthday grew lonely. I knew I wanted to break up the quietness of our days a bit – and a romp through the wilderness was exactly what we all needed! Luckily this gorgeous field is within walking distance of our home.

We all got dressed up, grabbed the camera, and headed out to explore and document.

For me – outdoor milestone sessions are about the details. How big they are. Their hair texture. The many many many many faces they make. Their little movements and the expressions in their eyes. Are they timid? Curious? Giggly? They’re all wild.

 

The Full Gallery

Now I’ll warn you – this is my baby – and I’m kind of obsessed with her. So for this very personal outdoor milestone session I MAY have over-shot a bit. But I don’t care – every photograph shown below was a photograph I knew I had to keep forever. Something about the look in her eyes or the curve of her (still baby) cheeks, or the flyaway hairs swirling around her.

My girl is 3.

Take a look below to see how she’s bloomed.

 

 

Ashley Erin West – Currently Booking Summer + Fall 2020

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Family and Motherhood Photographer based in Nashville, TN and serving the Middle Tennessee area –  offering:

Maternity Sessions, Fresh 48 Sessions, Newborn Sessions, Breastfeeding Sessions, Milestone Sessions, Family Sessions, & More.

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Nashville Motherhood Photographer