Double Digit Charlotte, NC Birthday: A Fun 10-Year-Old Photo Session

Turning ten is a big deal — it marks the bridge between early childhood and the exciting tween years. For this sweet Charlotte family, mom wanted to celebrate her youngest daughter’s upcoming double digit birthday with a fun, confidence-boosting photography experience that captured her personality, joy, and growing independence. A 10 year old photo session is the perfect way to freeze this fleeting season before childhood starts to change too quickly.

As a Charlotte children’s milestone photographer, I love helping families document these meaningful stages — and age ten is one of my absolute favorites.

Why Age 10 Is a Big Childhood Milestone

Age ten is such a special chapter. Kids at this age are confident, expressive, playful, and beginning to form their own sense of style and individuality. They still love to laugh and be silly, but they’re also growing into their independence.

This stage is often overlooked because families tend to focus heavily on baby milestones and senior portraits — but age 10 is one of the last true childhood milestones before tweens transition into their teenage years. The first and last time they are two whole hands!

A milestone photography session at this age allows families to:

• Capture authentic personality
• Celebrate growth and independence
• Preserve childhood before it shifts into adolescence
• Create meaningful artwork and keepsakes

This Charlotte mom wanted images that truly reflected her daughter’s spirit, confidence, and joy — and a 10 year old photo session was the perfect way to do that.

What to Expect from a 10-Year-Old Photo Session in Charlotte

These sessions are designed to be fun, relaxed, and pressure-free. At this age, kids respond best to sessions that feel playful rather than overly posed.  Using props that represent their age and dressed in a style that is truly them!

This approach allows kids to relax, feel confident, and simply be themselves. We also incorporate interactive direction that keeps energy high while ensuring a smooth, efficient flow.  And I am not above getting out my fart machine for extra laughs…..

My Charlotte studio sessions are intentionally designed with a clean, refined aesthetic that allows your child’s personality to shine. Soft neutral tones, controlled lighting, and minimal backdrops create an elevated look that feels both modern and timeless.

This carefully curated environment ensures each portrait is focused, flattering, and emotionally meaningful — delivering artwork that feels polished, cohesive, and worthy of display.

Outfit & Styling Tips for Tween Photo Sessions

Styling plays a huge role in creating beautiful, cohesive portraits. For tween sessions, I recommend choosing outfits that feel comfortable, age-appropriate, and personality-driven.

First and foremost if they aren’t wearing something they like it will show!  Whether that is about the material of the outfit, color, or style!  So styling the session is the best first step for success in a successful 10-year-old photo session.  Some favorite styling tips for 10-year-old sessions include:

• Soft neutral tones with a pop of color
• Flowy dresses, textured fabrics, or playful skirts
• Well-fitted denim paired with simple tops
• Comfortable shoes that allow easy movement

While this session included a cute t-shirt with an adorable logo, I do remind parents that words on shirts are not as highly recommended.  Sometimes you can only see a few of the letters/writing.  I would also avoid overly busy patterns, large logos, and stiff fabrics. The goal is for your child to feel confident, comfortable, and free to move — which always translates beautifully on camera.

And no worries if you aren’t sure on the best choices for outfits.  We go over ideas after booking and hopefully prior to purchasing anything so I can give you the best recommendations!

Accessories to Consider For A Fun 10-Year-Old Photo Session

Ok so first let’s talk about what all can be accessories.  They can literally be true accessories like bracelets and hair bows or they can be additional props that add a little pop to the session!  Accessories are the perfect finishing touch and can add personality without overwhelming the look. For a double digit birthday session, a few carefully chosen accessories can really elevate the final images.

Some great accessory ideas include:

• Hair bows, headbands, or floral clips
• Layered necklaces or simple bracelets
• Lightweight scarves or denim jackets
• Cute flats, boots, or sandals
• Sunglasses
• A meaningful prop (matte colored balloons, birthday number, cake/cupcake or special keepsake)

Always remembering of course that less is more!  So while we will use props and accessories here and there, they won’t be used the entire time.  We want accessories to enhance the look, not distract from your child’s natural expressions and beauty.  

Booking a Milestone Photographer in Charlotte, NC

Milestone sessions like these are about celebration, confidence, and capturing fleeting childhood moments. If you’re considering a 10 year old photo session for your child, I recommend booking early — especially for spring and fall, which are the most popular seasons in Charlotte.

A professional milestone photographer provides:

• Expert guidance in styling and location selection
• A relaxed, fun experience for your child
• High-quality images that become lasting keepsakes
• A smooth, organized process from start to finish

Whether you’re celebrating a double digit birthday, a personality milestone, or simply want updated portraits, childhood milestone photography is a beautiful way to preserve this season.

Ready to Plan Your Child’s 10-year-old Photo Session?

If you’re looking for a Charlotte children’s photographer who specializes in milestone portraits and creating joyful, confidence-filled experiences, I’d love to work with you.

✨ Let’s celebrate your child — right where they are — and create something truly meaningful.

📩 Contact me today to book your child’s milestone session in Charlotte, NC.