Family Photo Shoot at Hidden Green Space Gem - Marley Park in Surprise Arizona by Family Photographer, Jennifer Lind Schutsky

There’s nothing quite like the joy of capturing your baby’s one-year milestone. A first birthday is full of emotion—those first steps, their curious personality, and the bond you've built as a new family. Scheduling a one-year photo session is the perfect way to freeze this fleeting stage in time. I recently had the pleasure of photographing a sweet family at Marley Park in Surprise, Arizona—a hidden gem full of tree-lined paths, lush lawns, and golden light that makes it a dream backdrop for family photos.

When planning your one-year session, aim to schedule around golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) for soft, flattering light. You can google sunset for the date and location of your session and then reverse engineer starting time I usually suggest 30-40 minutes before sunset.

Choose outfits that coordinate without being too “matchy” photograph beautifully—think soft pastels or earth tones that complement Arizona’s natural landscape.

Pro tip: bring your baby’s favorite toy or snack. It helps ease any nerves and keeps smiles coming naturally. And don’t stress about perfection—real moments, whether it’s a snuggle or a giggle, are always the most memorable.

Let’s capture your family’s love, laughter, and everything in between during this once-in-a-lifetime milestone. Marley Park might just be the perfect place to celebrate it.