The first birthday of a child is a crucial milestone that is the focus of the emerging trend of cake smash photography. In particular, you can capture this happy occasion with a cake smash photography session when your child turns one.

This basically means that you give the child a lovely cake, and then it’s up to the child to decide what he or she is going to do with it. In that regard, the options are truly limitless, ranging from totally destroying the cake to playing with it to actually eating it.

Cake smash photography aims to capture the moment beautifully so that the child’s family can have a lifetime of memories of it. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about cake smash photography.

What Is Cake Smash Photography?

In a cake smash photoshoot, a baby is given a cake to smash and play with while a professional photographer captures the beautiful moment. It is a great way to make a baby’s birthday special and get wonderful photos.

You can either make your own cake or have one done. Then, give the cake to your baby and let them do whatever they like with it. A professional photographer will take pictures of your baby interacting and playing with the cake.

Although a cake smash photo shoot typically takes place when a child turns one year old, this does not mean that you can’t plan one for your child at any other age. There really are no age restrictions for cake smash photo sessions because they are so much fun for kids of all ages.

Why Have a Cake Smash Celebration on Your Kid’s First Birthday

A cake smash photoshoot is a great first birthday photoshoot idea. First birthdays are a time to honor both the baby and the parents. One year of late nights and soiled diapers endured. Making it through a year of stress, love, laughter, and tears.

It seems like the year is going on forever a lot of the time, but other times, it seems to be going by way too fast. This same tiny baby will soon be all grown up and getting ready for adult life. Too little time remains for them to be infants.

A cake smash is the ideal way to remember everything that has happened this year. A lot of people will have their photo session in the weeks leading up to their birthday party, using the finished photos as adorable invitation images.

Additionally, siblings and other family members can also be included in a cake smash photoshoot, and this can be a fun family event. Just make sure to notify your photographer ahead of time if you wish for family members to participate in the cake smash session so that they can plan accordingly.

Choosing a Theme for Your Cake Smash

It’s not necessary to stick to specific characters, eras, or other elements when choosing a theme; you could just pick a few complementary colors and build from there.

Sometimes, the surroundings themselves provide beautiful backdrops and make for a great theme. Of course, there are a ton of fun options available when it comes to character or animal themes; your only restriction is your imagination! Some popular themes include floral, woodland, and sports. To put a smile on your child’s face, choose the activity that makes them the happiest.

You can also discuss themes and colors ahead of time with your professional photographer so that they can plan the session accordingly.

Getting Ready for a Cake Smash Photoshoot

A cake smash photoshoot requires some preparation. You need to make sure that your baby is well-rested before the session. Additionally, you have to select the right cake and outfit for your baby and bring other things, such as props and accessories.

Selecting the Perfect Cake for the Photoshoot

A simple vanilla or white cake with buttercream frosting is a popular choice for a cake smash photography session. You should avoid using red or dark-colored frosting, as it can stain the baby’s clothes and skin.

Additionally, take into consideration the size of the cake. The cake should be big enough for your baby to play with, but not too big to the point where there would be no space for your baby to fit into the frame. You can read here for more tips on selecting the perfect cake for the cake smash photoshoot.

What to Bring to the Cake Smash Session

You should bring any props or accessories that you want included in the photos. Additionally, you should also bring any favorite toys or items that will help your baby feel more comfortable.

Selecting Your Baby’s Outfit for the Cake Smash Photoshoot

For your baby’s outfit, a simple outfit in a solid color is ideal because it will not detract from the focus on the cake and your baby. It is better to avoid clothing with busy patterns or logos. Remember to bring extra clothes for your baby.

Work With a Qualified Photographer

Although DIY cake smash photography is totally possible, working with a professional photographer ensures the best outcomes and provides an extra set of hands.

You must have a firm understanding of your budget and the quality you can expect to receive before asking a few of your shortlist of photographers for quotes and consultations. You want to find plenty of proof of fantastic personal skills and awesome work quality, so check out their website and social media accounts and dive into the comments under their posts.

Additionally, inquire about any relevant experience. If you want to control screaming, cake-covered toddlers, you don’t necessarily need to be a great landscape photographer. When choosing a photographer, either training, experience, or a combination of both is important. Select a photographer who has received training to handle babies and infants.

The best way to describe a cake smash session is as a beautiful mess! Plan accordingly, but do not forget to take a moment to yourself to unwind and enjoy the exciting chaos of the shoot. As you watch your child gobble up the cake, consider all the wonderful memories that will soon follow. There will be many special moments to treasure.