Capturing Teething Babies with Oklahoma City Baby Photographer, Lauren Grigg

Earlier this year I had the pleasure of capturing a one-year milestone for a sweet baby girl named Brooklyn. We ran into one small problem during the session though, Brooklyn was teething and fussy. Thankfully, she perked up for us and we got some beautiful images of her and her parents. However, I learned a valuable lesson that day. I need to be more prepared for teething babies at my sessions. That very day, after Brooklyn’s session I went home and purchased some wooden teething rings to have on hand for any future milestone sessions with a teething little one. Of course, we could have given her a brightly colored toy to chew on, but that wouldn’t have been very aesthetically pleasing for photographs.

Teething is an important milestone in a baby’s life, and as parents, we strive to provide them with safe and engaging toys to soothe their discomfort. Wooden toys not only serve as excellent teething aids but also add a touch of elegance and charm to baby milestone photography sessions. I now have very simple wooden rings that babies can have to chew on during their session if they happen to get fussy. With a wooden chew toy in hand, we can continue to photograph baby while they soothe their aching gums. I do not reuse or share these toys and baby is more than welcome to take their teether home. However, I also wanted to give some tips for choosing your own photographable teething toys if you wanted to bring something a little more unique and personal to your baby’s milestone session. Here are some of my tips on what to look for:

1. Safety First: When selecting wooden toys for teething babies, prioritize their safety. Look for toys made from natural, non-toxic materials that are free from harmful chemicals. Ensure the toy has been thoroughly tested and complies with safety standards. Avoid toys with small parts that could pose a choking hazard.
2. Opt for Natural and Unfinished Wood: Natural and unfinished wooden toys not only provide a safe teething option but also add a rustic and organic aesthetic to the photographs. The natural grain and texture of wood create a timeless appeal. Look for toys made from sustainably sourced hardwood, such as maple or beech, which are sturdy and durable.
3. Consider Various Textures and Shapes: Teething babies often seek relief by exploring different textures with their mouths. Choose wooden toys that offer a variety of textures and shapes, such as ridges, bumps, or smooth surfaces. These variations will not only engage your baby but also add visual interest to the photographs.
4. Incorporate Pastel or Neutral Colors: While wooden toys are beautiful in their natural state, incorporating pastel or neutral colors can enhance the visual appeal of the photographs. Look for toys with non-toxic, water-based dyes in soft hues. These subtle pops of color will add a touch of whimsy and playfulness to the images without overpowering the natural beauty of the wood.
5. Seek Artisan-Made Toys: Supporting artisans and independent toymakers not only ensures the uniqueness of your wooden toys but also adds a personal touch to your photographs. Artisan-made toys often feature intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail, making them exquisite props for newborn photography sessions. Seek out local craft fairs or online marketplaces to discover one-of-a-kind wooden toys.
6. Balance Aesthetics with Functionality: While aesthetics are important, it’s crucial to remember that these toys are primarily meant for your teething baby’s comfort. Choose toys that are not only visually pleasing but also designed to provide relief for sore gums. Toys with different textures, rings, or knobs for gripping can serve the dual purpose of soothing and entertaining your little one during the photo session.

Here is a list of some toys I suggest if you would like to bring your own aesthetically pleasing teething toy to your milestone session:

Personalized Wooden Rattle

Wooden Rattle

Natural Activity Toy

Crochet Bunny

Wooden Camera

Crinkle Bunny

Wooden Car + Train

Choosing aesthetically pleasing wooden toys for teething babies adds an element of charm and elegance to newborn photography sessions. By prioritizing safety, opting for natural materials, and considering various textures and shapes, you can create visually captivating images while providing comfort to your teething baby. Don’t forget to explore artisan-made toys and incorporate subtle colors to add a unique and personal touch. When you book a milestone session with Lauren Grigg Photography in OKC, you can capture beautiful memories that reflect the joy and sweetness of this precious stage in your baby’s life.

One last thought…

A little teething medicine also never hurts to have on hand. One of my absolute favorite teething medications that worked wonders for my son when he was little is the Boiron Camilia Teething Drops. Within ten minutes of administering these little homeopathic drops to my son he would always calm right down. These would be a great option to keep in your diaper bag!

OKC Baby Photographer, Lauren Grigg, specializes in photography of the early years in central Oklahoma including maternity, newborn, baby, and family photography. Based in Yukon, OK, Lauren travels to surrounding areas including Oklahoma City, OKC, Edmond, Mustang, Piedmont, Okarche, Guthrie, Stillwater and other central Oklahoma communities. 

I love to travel, and also work with families outside of this area as long as it is no more than a 2-hour drive! I would love to start planning your own maternity session! To see more of my portfolio, please click here.

Your experience begins with a style guide to plan your family’s wardrobe and ends with a full digital gallery full of timeless images. Even more special, I offer packages and à la carte artwork including a variety of exclusive fine art prints, albums, and other heirloom tangibles. 

If you would like to reserve your date on my calendar, please click here or email me directly at hello@laurengrigg.com.