Can you believe your little baby is going to be a year old? It probably feels like just yesterday they were a tiny bundle in your arms, and now they’re on the brink of so many new adventures. What better way to document this exciting milestone than with a first birthday cake smash photo session! I love watching their eyes going wide seeing a whole cake just for them, then those adorable hesitant touches, and finally the glorious dive into the frosting. Messy? Absolutely. Fun? 100%. Memories for a lifetime? You bet.

Ready to plan a session for your little one? I like to start the process by deciding on the location. Generally, I’ll offer cake smash sessions either outdoors or my Raleigh studio. Let’s talk a bit about the pros and cons for each!

Outdoor Session: Nature, Sunshine, and… Unpredictability

Pros:

• The beauty of natural light and the great outdoors can make for some truly magical shots. Just imagine your baby with a beautiful sunset or amidst blooming flowers, cake everywhere!

Cons:

• Weather is a gamble. Rain, too much sun, or sudden cold snaps can be party poopers.
• Some seasons (mainly Winter) aren’t great for outdoors sessions, especially with little ones.
• Scheduling can be tricky when trying to achieve that perfect ‘golden hour’ lighting and early bedtimes for babies.

Studio Session: Simple, Stress-free, and Always Ready

Pros:

• Weather? Who cares! It’s comfy and climate-controlled year round.
• Consistent lighting means no rescheduling or racing against the sunset and ideal times work better for babies schedules.
• The simple, neutral studio space ensures that your baby remains the star of the show.

Cons:

• Lacks the natural setting and varied backgrounds that an outdoor session offers.

In the end, whether it’s amidst nature or in the cozy studio, I know these will be photos that you’ll cherish forever!

Prepping for the First Birthday Cake Smash Session

For baby’s outfit, think cute and comfy. A lot of parents will dress their child in a romper or bubble for some playful photos, and then swap for just a diaper cover during the cake smash. If you don’t want to purchase something I have baby outfits available for client use!

I don’t provide cakes (for liability purposes) but there are lots of bakeries that offer small cakes or even a big cupcake which is all you need! I generally recommend all white, but if you have something else in mind then go for it – these photos are for you. If you need a bakery recommendation I’d check out The Cupcake Shoppe, Edible Art, or Whole Foods.

I’ve got a variety of photo-ready toys, but if you have any special toys or keepsakes you’d like in the shots, bring them along! Sometimes a familiar toy can really help to make babies feel at ease.

Let’s Create Some Memories

In a nutshell, a cake smash session is all about cherishing the cute chaos that is babyhood. If you’re on board for some fun, toothy grins, and beautiful images please reach out today! Sessions can be booked individually, or as part of a Baby’s First Year Package.

First Birthday Cake Smash Session | Let Them Eat Cake! by Worth Capturing Photography Studio in Raleigh, NC