Why "In The Box" Portraits Are The Cutest Way To Capture Your Baby's 1st Birthday (Lowestoft Studio)
- Natasha Garner
- Nov 18
- 4 min read
As a family photographer based in Lowestoft and working across Suffolk and Norfolk, my "In The Box" portraits are one of the most fun and creative ways to capture families and little ones. Whether you're celebrating a 1st birthday or looking for something a bit different, these sessions are relaxed, playful and full of personality. Here's everything you need to know before booking your 1st Birthday "In The Box" Portrait session.
What Is an "In The Box" Portrait Photoshoot?
If you’ve never seen an “In The Box” Portrait before, it starts with a 4ft x 4ft box in the studio. I photograph a sequence of poses inside the box, one at a time. Later, I assemble those shots into a box-grid image where each square shows a different moment. It’s a creative process that results in one finished picture rather than a set of separate photographs. This type of session works nicely for confident sitters, siblings and families who enjoy something a bit playful.
Why Families Love "In The Box" Portraits
Families love these portraits because:
*It is fun and interactive, not just sitting there and posing for no reason!
*Kids can play and come up with fun interactive poses and ideas themselves, in fact, I encourage it!
*It works beautifully for milestone sessions, especially 1st Birthdays!
*You get a unique piece of art work to display in your home as well as digital images
*It captures personality - from cheeky grins to splashes and bubbles!
It doesn't matter how many people you have in your family or in your friend group... we will fit you all in somehow, nobody will be left out!
How and "In The Box" Portrait Session Works (Step By Step)
This is what will happen on the day of your "In The Box" Portrait Session.
1) Arrive at the studio: I will welcome you to my central Lowestoft studio where you will take a few moments to familiarize yourself with me, the environment and the box. I believe this is important as it can be quite intimidating.
2) I always begin with a short rundown of how the session works and show some sample portraits so you can visualize the final result. It can take a moment for little ones to grasp the idea, so I guide the early poses to get the basics in place. Once everyone relaxes, the session becomes much more playful, and kids usually lead the way with their own poses and ideas.
3) For 1st Birthday sessions we will get some photos of everyone together then baby gets to sit in the tub and have a warm splash while I take more photos!
4) No stiff posing and no rules...
5) We go at your pace, sometimes the sessions are a lot shorter than an hour, it all depends on how quickly we get through the images. But, i always make sure we get enough, I won't ever rush you.
6) Editing and design: I create your personalised collage using the best images to create a your family's story.
What To Wear For An "In The Box" Portrait Session
Now, this depends on whether this is a themed session or not. For the sessions that are not themed I recommend simple, coordinated outfits. These are my top tips.
*Try and avoid white as much as possible, the box is white and you will disappear!
*Decide if shoes will or won't be worn. If you aren't wearing any then will you be wearing socks or going bare footed? It's not a huge deal, but it's always good to think of this while you are thinking about clothing.
*Try to avoid clothing with characters on (unless it is a themed session) They can get dated very quickly, but if your child can not leave the house without their Bluey hoodie, it's fine!!
*For your younger family members it is always a good idea to bring a change of clothes, maybe a casual and a fancy outfit!
My Studio In Lowestoft
My studio is on Regent Road in Central Lowestoft, just a short walk from the bus and train station. I am situated in an office building with lots of other businesses, but the best part about that is we have the place to ourselves on the weekends! I am on the 1st floor and I have a lift for you to use, we have plenty of toilet facilities and a kitchen.
Being based in Lowestoft means I am easy to reach from across Norfolk and Suffolk with parking close by.
Tips For A Great "In The Box" Portrait Session
Here's a few tips to help your session go smoothly
*Pack extra nappies, wipes, clothes etc. You never know if you will need them!
*If you are having a Splash session, please remember a swim nappy and possibly your own bubble bath if they have any allergies.
*Snacks... always bring snacks. I find that attention spans can be short and we need a break, a few minutes down time with a small snack and a drink does the world of good.
How Long Does An "In The Box" Portrait Session Take?
A classic "In The Box" Portrait session usually takes around 45 minutes of shooting time, sometimes its a lot less than that. It all depends on the pace we go at and to be honest, it can depend a lot on the cooperation of the little people involved!
But rest assured, you will not be rushed and if we do manage to get through it quickly, I will have enough images. I will make sure before we finish.
Final Thoughts!
"In The Box" Portraits are such a joyful way to capture a milestone or create something truly unique for your home. Whether you choose a classic setup or a splash session for your baby's 1st Birthday, the results are always full of personality, fun and memories you'll treasure.
Ready To Book Your "In The Box" Portrait Session?
If you are looking for a creative and fun family portrait session, I'd love to create something special for your family.
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