This sweet, 2 year olds mama wanted traditional heirloom portraits of her 2 year old dressed in a beautiful, floor-length, heirloom dress. No fluff, no props. Just timeless, classic portraits she could pass down for generations.
And that’s exactly what we made together.
What Made This Session So Special
This little girl was a bit shy at first but with mom and her grandmother behind me getting her to laugh she eventually laughed and showed us her personality.
Mom wanted portraits that still look beautiful 30 years from now.
The floor-length heirloom dress she wore was perfect for that. It gave the session a soft, classic feel that really fits what Laura Cardan Photography Studio’s Central Alabama Heirloom Portraits are all about.
The Heirloom Portrait Journey: From Baby to Big Kid
If you’ve been following Laura’s work you know she offers a clean, light, timeless style for portraits that stand the test of time and are easy to pair together for a collection as they grow.
- Newborn Session – studio newborn session
- 3 month baby session – pushing up and offering lots of smiles
- Sitter session (6 months) – a milestone so many families skip (but really shouldn’t)
- 8 month portraits – crawling and pulling up but not quite walking
- 1 year portraits – right near that first birthday
The Dress: A Big Part of the Heirloom Look
The outfit you choose matters a lot in heirloom portrait photography. It’s part of what makes the photos feel timeless.
For this session, mom chose a gorgeous floor-length dress that had a classic, vintage feel. It photographed beautifully.
Why Heirloom Dresses Work So Well
- They photograph with texture and detail
- They allow for movement and flow
- They hold up over time, both in style and in quality
- They feel like something worth keeping, not just wearing once
Recommended Vendor
When it comes to dressing your little one for a timeless portrait session, Feltman Brothers is a name worth knowing. They make beautifully crafted children’s clothing that fits the heirloom style perfectly and have been around for many generations.
5 Tips for Planning Your Own Laura Cardan Photography Studio Central Alabama Heirloom Portraits Session in Vestavia
Ready to book your own session? Here’s what to know before you do.
1. Choose Clothing That Feels Classic
Skip the trendy outfits. Go for something simple and timeless. Solid colors, soft fabrics, and clean lines always photograph well.
2. Plan Around Nap Time
Two-year-olds have a window. Know when your child is happiest and most cooperative. Morning sessions often work best for toddlers. A well-rested kid makes a big difference.
3. Trust the Process
Don’t force your children to sit perfecty still. Relax, let them be themselves, and trust that the magic happens naturally.
4. Think About Where You’ll Display the Portraits
Knowing where you’ll hang your favorite photograph will help your photographer decide what type of orientation to include in your gallery.
FAQ: Laura Cardan Photography Studio Central Alabama Heirloom Portraits in Vestavia
Where is the studio located?
Laura Cardan Photography Studio is located in Vestavia, Alabama, and serves families in Birmingham and across Central Alabama.
How long does a session take?
Most portrait sessions run about one to two hours. Toddler sessions may be shorter depending on the child’s mood and energy.
What should my child wear?
Simple, classic clothing works best. Avoid logos, busy patterns and dark/bright colors. Dresses, smocked outfits, and soft neutrals are popular choices for heirloom sessions.
When will I see my portraits?
Images are ready within 2 weeks after your session.
Do you photograph kids at all ages?
Yes. Many families start with newborn or baby sessions and continue through childhood. It’s a wonderful way to document how fast kids grow.
At the end of this session we included mom for some mother and daughter maternity portraits to celebrate their bond before little sister arrives.
Ready to Book Your Heirloom Portrait Session in Vestavia?
If you’ve been thinking about booking a session at Laura Cardan Photography Studio for Central Alabama Heirloom Portraits, now’s a great time to take that step.
These portraits are the ones you’ll be glad you have. Your kids grow up fast. Having beautiful, timeless photographs of them at each stage is something families treasure for years.
Click here to inquire and book your session at lauracardanphoto.com/inquire
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