How I Photograph First Communions: What to Expect
First Communion is such a beautiful and meaningful milestone—a day full of excitement, pride, and celebration for your child and your whole family. As a photographer, I love being part of that joy and helping you capture it in a way that feels personal and relaxed. I’m sharing how my First Communion sessions work so you know exactly what to expect and how to plan ahead for the best experience.
Scheduling the Session
I exclusive shoot First Communion portraits on weekdays. Families can schedule with their church ahead of time to arrange access to the space before the actual Communion day. This gives us a quiet, unrushed environment to work in—without the crowd and time crunch of the ceremony itself.
Why This Approach Works So Well
A weekday session gives your child a chance to feel comfortable in their outfit and setting. For girls, it’s a perfect opportunity to combine the session with a hair trial or make sure the dress fits just right. For boys, it’s a chance to check that their suit is in good shape and everything looks polished.
Another big bonus? Some churches don’t allow outside photographers during the Communion Mass. Doing a private session beforehand ensures you still get beautiful portraits of your child in their Communion attire, right in the church where the moment happens.
For Churches That Allow Photographers at the Ceremony
Even if your church allows photography during the event, a pre-ceremony session is still a smart idea. After Mass, many families scramble for photo spots, which can feel chaotic and rushed. When your portraits are already done, you can skip the line and head straight to your celebration—stress-free.
Need Reception Coverage Too?
If you’re planning a party or reception after the ceremony, I also offer full event photography. You can inquire about that anytime here.
I’d love to help make your child’s First Communion as smooth and memorable as possible. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to get on my calendar!
