How to plan your Cake Smash

Cake smash photography sessions have become an increasingly popular way to celebrate a baby’s first birthday. These fun and memorable photo shoots capture the pure joy and mess of a little one diving into their very first cake. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to plan your perfect cake smash session.

Timing Is Everything

Schedule the photo session a few days before the actual birthday party. This gives you flexibility if your little one isn’t feeling well on the scheduled day. If you would like to display the photos at the birthday party, I suggest booking the session at least 2 weeks before the party. The best time for the shoot is usually in the morning when babies are typically most alert and happy.

Location Setup

• I do all cake smash sessions in my studio
• You can choose a custom theme, I do my best to accommodate all themes.
• I will have everything set up and ready for baby when you arrive!
• I have everything you need for clean up after the session including towels, soap, washcloth

The Perfect Cake

• The cake is the star of the show, so choose wisely!
• Select a cake that’s small enough for your baby to handle, I prefer a 6″ 3-layer cake for the best look with baby
• Buttercream frosting is the best to smash and smear!
• White or a light color is best for the smash – think of what brown or may look like smeared on the floor and the baby. LOL!
• Avoid choking hazards on the cake like larger sprinkles or candy.

Outfit Selection

• Plan two outfits: one for pre-smash portraits and one for the actual cake smash. I do have outfits in studio inquire about sizing and colors.
• Choose clothes that complement your color scheme.
• Bring backup clothes in case of accidents.

Tips for Success

• Do a trial run with a cupcake to see how your baby reacts, surprisingly many babies don’t like sugar!
• One person will be the baby wrangler! This person WILL get messy! Bring a change of clothes since you will be covered in frosting.
• Don’t force it if your baby isn’t interested – sometimes the reluctant photos are just as precious.
• I provide two essential questionnaires before the big day to ensure your cake smash session is perfectly tailored to your needs. The Planning Questionnaire helps establish your vision, from color schemes to props and cake design, while our Baby Profile Questionnaire helps us understand your little one’s personality, schedule, and comfort levels. This is especially important since many one-year-olds are in the “stranger danger” phase, and understanding their developmental stage and preferences allows us to create a comfortable, enjoyable environment that brings out their best smiles and genuine reactions.

Capturing the Moments

Drawing from years of experience photographing Cake Smash Sessions, I follow a natural flow that works well for both babies and myself. I begin with clean portraits before introducing the cake, then capture your baby’s initial reaction to seeing it. The first taste is always precious, followed by entertaining action shots of complete cake destruction. Finally, I document the messy aftermath and conclude with adorable cleanup shots during bath time.

After the Session

Don’t forget to back up your photos immediately, I suggest one online and one on your computer. Hard drives will go out (believe me I’ve been there!), having an online backup is extra protection for your precious photos. Ask me about printing, or your gallery will come with a store where you can print your photos or even order an album of the session. It’s all very easy to use, but I can always take care of the order for you if you prefer!

Remember, every baby reacts differently to their cake smash session. Some dive right in, while others are more hesitant. Whatever the outcome, these photos will capture a unique and special moment in your child’s life that you’ll treasure forever.

I’d love to chat about your perfect cake smash you can contact me here CONTACT PAGE