Your guide to timing, themes, and making your baby’s first birthday photoshoot unforgettable.
Your baby is turning ONE! Cue the happy tears, the disbelief, and of course, the cake! A cake smash session is such a fun and joyful way to celebrate this huge milestone. It’s about more than frosting covered fingers. It’s about capturing your baby’s unique personality at the end of their first incredible year.
But when should you book? What should baby wear? What theme should you choose? And how do you make sure it all goes smoothly?
Let’s break it all down.
When Should I Book My Cake Smash Session?
Ideally, you should reach out to book your cake smash session when your child is between 7-9 months old. I schedule cake smash sessions 1–2 months before your baby’s actual birthday or birthday party. Here’s why this timing is important:
- Not every baby is walking yet at 10 or 11 months, which makes photos SO much easier to capture! Once they’re on the move, keeping them in one spot is a real challenge.
- I’ll need time to order a custom cake and possibly restock themed props or decor.
- If you’re using the images for birthday invitations, you’ll want your edited gallery back in plenty of time.
- If you plan on doing a theme I haven't already done, I'll need to order a backdrop, and they can sometimes take up to a month to come in.
Booking early ensures that you get your ideal date, especially weekends or during busier seasons!
How to Choose a Cake Smash Theme
Choosing a theme is one of the most fun parts of planning your cake smash session , and there’s no wrong way to go about it!
Some families choose a theme that matches their baby’s first birthday party, which is a great way to add a personal themed touch to your party. Others go for a theme that highlights their baby’s personality, something they love like a favorite animal, color, or toy. And sometimes, parents choose a theme that reflects their own hobbies or interests, whether that’s a favorite hobby or activity, movie, or even a nod to their profession.
But one important thing to consider: If you plan to print and hang these images in your home, it’s best to choose a theme that fits your home’s aesthetic and color palette. A soft, neutral setup will feel timeless and match most decor styles, while something bold or colorful can make a fun statement if that fits your vibe.
No matter which direction you go, I’ll help guide you through the process to make sure the setup feels personal, playful, and phot ready.
What Should Baby Wear?
You’re welcome to bring up to three outfits for your session:
- A simple outfit for portraits on a solid colored backdrop (these are classic and timeless — monochromatic looks always photograph beautifully).
- A themed outfit to match your cake smash backdrop.
- An optional cake smash look, which can be as styled (or as simple!) as you’d like, including the popular shirtless smash with a cute diaper cover.
Don’t forget to bring a clean outfit for baby to go home in!
Most parents find outfits on Etsy or Amazon, but anything goes. If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to offer feedback or recommendations! I also have some outfits in studio that can be used if you prefer, but I always ask that you bring at least 2 outfits in case I don't have anything you like or that fits your baby.
What Happens During a Cake Smash Session?
Cake smash sessions usually last 20–60 minutes, depending on your baby’s attention span. I move quickly and gently to keep things fun and low stress. Here’s the usual flow:
- Simple portraits (no cake yet!)
- Themed setup photos without the cake
- Cake smash fun — frosting, fingers, giggles, and lots of mess!
- Optional splash session — we bring out a mini tub and let baby play and rinse off. These often result in some of the cutest images from the whole session! This is always a good add-on if your child did not like the cake smash portion. Most babies love bath time!
Tips to Help Things Go Smoothly
- Schedule after baby’s morning nap and make sure they’ve eaten beforehand. A rested, full baby is a happy baby!
- Bring favorite snacks like puffs or Cheerios as they can be hidden in the cake if baby isn’t interested at first.
- Not all babies love cake or getting messy. That’s okay! We’ll work with whatever baby gives us and still create beautiful memories.
- Pack toys, songs, or videos that make baby smile. Sometimes a little encouragement from Mom or Dad (and their phone) goes a long way.
- If baby has allergy concerns, you’re welcome to bring your own cake, and you’ll receive a $25 discount.
- Teething? A dose of infant Tylenol before the session (as recommended by your pediatrician) can help with comfort.
- And most importantly — try to stay relaxed! Babies pick up on stress. This session is meant to be fun, messy, and full of personality. Having realistic expectations and allowing your child to be themselves is the best way to go!
A Few Bonus Tips on Cake Smash Logistics
- Outfit changes: Easy in studio! You’ll have access to a changing space and time to switch between looks.
- Themes & Props: You can choose from balloon garlands, florals, custom setups, or opt for something minimal and clean.
- Clean up is handled! I take care of the mess so you can simply enjoy the moment.
Final Thoughts
A cake smash session is about more than adorable photos , it’s a chance to celebrate your baby’s first year and preserve this stage forever. With the right planning and mindset, it will be a sweet, memorable experience for both of you.
Want to talk through ideas or get on my calendar?
Visit my Cake Smash page to see more info
Contact me to book a session!
I’d love to help plan a custom session that’s as unique as your little one.
