The early winter sun cast a golden glow across St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church as Sienna Rose arrived for her First Communion portrait session. As a second grader at Queen of Angels, this day was extra special for her. With her mom expecting a new baby in May, the family chose December for Sienna’s portraits so she could enjoy her own special moment in the spotlight.

After days of rain, the clouds parted just in time. The church schedule had been packed with events, yet somehow we secured the perfect time slot. The sunshine streamed through the windows, creating that dreamy light her mom had been hoping for all along.

The Perfect Setting: St. Peter Chanel Church for First Communion Photos

St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church in Roswell provides a stunning backdrop for First Communion portraits. The beautiful architecture, stained glass windows, and sacred atmosphere create photos that families cherish for generations.

For Sienna Rose’s session, we captured:

• Close ups and full body portraits near the altar 
• An image of her with the Blessed Mother statue
• The cherished image of her with the Assumption of Mary stained glass window with the perfect light
  

The church’s warm tones and spiritual setting added depth and meaning to each photograph, making them not just portraits but treasured religious keepsakes.

Preparing Your Child for First Communion Portraits

Choosing the Perfect Outfit for your daughter

Booking a portrait session with me includes a complete prep guide. To get started, many families find  Dillards has an excellent collection of modest and beautiful dresses for this sacred milestone.

My own girls had hand made flower crowns from their grandmother, but another popular choice is a dried flower crown handmade from Etsy, adding a personal touch and creating a keepsake.

Meaningful Accessories

Special accessories can add sentimental value to First Communion portraits. Consider including:

• A rosary passed down through generations
• A prayer book or Bible
• Meaningful religious jewelry from The Inspired Living
• Candles or other First Communion symbols
  

These items create visual interest in photos while highlighting the spiritual significance of the day.

5 Tips for Planning Your First Communion Portrait Session

1. Book Early: I typically open bookings for spring in mid February. Be sure you’re on my email list to have first access.
   
2. Church or Studio: While I offer sessions at several Atlanta parishes, not all churches allow photography or some families prefer the classic look of a studio portrait.

3. Mini Session or Custom: Mini sessions are pre-determined dates, times, and parishes and are just for the child. If you’d like something outside of those options or would like to include the family or a second location, please reach out for a custom quote.
   
4. Less is more: It’s an exciting day! Naturally, grandma and the aunties may want to tag along, but children do best when they can be themselves and not feel like they’re performing.
   
5. Prep for success:  Choose a portrait day where your child has a lighter schedule so they don’t feel tired or rushed. Have a light snack and some water before the session to ensure we’re all smiles! 

Recommended Vendors for First Communion Sessions

Planning a First Communion portrait session involves many details. These trusted vendors can help make the experience smooth and beautiful:

• Church Venue: St. Peter Chanel – A stunning Catholic church in Roswell with beautiful photography locations
• Dresses: Dillards – Wonderful selection of traditional First Communion dresses
• Accessories: Etsy dried flower crowns – Handmade, unique accessories
• Gifts and Jewelry: The Inspired Living – Beautiful religious keepsakes and jewelry
  

Ready to Book Your First Communion Portrait Session?

If you’re planning for your child’s First Communion at St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church in Roswell, GA, I would love to help capture these precious moments for your family. 

To learn more or book your own First Communion portrait session, please visit my religious photography page at https://elizabethbuergler.com/religious.