Planning the perfect cake smash session: tips from a photographer

There’s something absolutely magical (and hilarious!) about watching a baby dig into their first birthday cake. A cake smash session is more than just cute pictures. It’s a celebration of your little one’s first year, full of personality, color, and joy. As a photographer who specializes in milestone moments like these, I’ve learned that a little planning goes a long way.

Here are my top tips to help you plan the perfect cake smash session from how to choose a theme that reflects your baby’s budding personality to what to have on hand during the session.

1. Choose the Right Time for Baby

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to one year olds! Schedule your session for a time of day when your baby is usually happiest, often mid-morning after a nap and a snack. A well-rested, well-fed baby is more likely to enjoy the experience (and less likely to meltdown when the frosting hits their hands!).

2. Pick a Theme (or Keep It Simple)

Themes can make your session feel extra special and personal. Whether it’s a favorite character, color palette, or something seasonal like “One in a Melon” or “Wild One,” a theme adds a cohesive look to your photos. Not into themes? A neutral setup with soft colors and simple décor lets baby’s personality shine.

Need help choosing a theme? I’m always happy to help design a setup that fits your style.

3. Outfits Matter (But Keep Extras Handy!)

Select one or two outfits for the session. One for the portraits before the smash and one for the actual cake smash. Think cute rompers, tutus, overalls, or just a diaper cover with suspenders! Avoid anything too stiff or fussy.

4. The Cake: Size, Style, and Ingredients

A small, soft cake (usually 4-6 inches) is perfect. It should be easy for little hands to dig into and not too dense. Skip hard fondant and opt for whipped or buttercream frosting instead. Pastel or solid colors photograph beautifully, and avoid bright red or dark dyes that can stain baby’s skin and look a little less appealing in photos.

5. Keep the Setup Baby Friendly

All my cake smash sessions are designed with safety and comfort in mind. I use non-slip backdrops, soft props, and food-safe materials. I also make sure baby is never left alone with the cake or any decorations.

Worried about a mess? Don’t be as I provide a cleanup station, towels, and even a post smash splash session if you’d like to end on a clean (and adorable!) note.

6. Capture More Than Just the Smash

While the smash is the highlight, I always begin with a few simple milestone portraits of your baby smiling, clapping, standing or sitting with their favorite toy. These classic shots are the ones you’ll treasure on your walls for years to come.

After the cake fun, we can even do a quick bubble bath or splash tub session to wrap things up. It’s a cute and practical way to clean up and get some fresh smiles.

7. Relax and Enjoy the Moment

The best sessions happen when parents are relaxed. Don’t worry if baby doesn’t dive face first into the cake. It’s all part of the fun. Whether they’re curious, cautious, or completely chaotic, we’ll capture their unique reaction beautifully.

Cake smash sessions are about celebrating your baby’s big milestone, not perfection. Messy faces, frosting covered fingers, and gummy grins make for unforgettable memories.

Ready to Smash Some Cake?

If your little one is turning ONE soon, I’d love to help you celebrate! My cake smash sessions are fun, fully customizable, and designed to make both you and your baby feel comfortable and excited. Check out more examples in the cake smash gallery!

Contact me here to book your session or learn more about my cake smash packages.

Let’s make some sweet memories together!