What to Expect at Your Baby's First Birthday Photoshoot
Your baby's first birthday only happens once...
Planning a first birthday is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming.
One of the questions I get asked most often is:"What actually happens during a cake smash session?"
So I thought I'd take you behind the scenes of one of my recent cake smash sessions and show you exactly how the experience works from start to finish.
Whether your little one loves the camera or needs a little extra time to warm up, every session is designed to be fun, relaxed and completely baby-led.
Step 1: Arriving at the Studio
When you arrive, there's no need to rush.
We take a few minutes to let your little one become comfortable with the new surroundings while we chat about the session.
Parents often worry that their baby will cry, but giving them a few minutes to explore makes a huge difference.
Step 2: Family Photos
Before any cake comes out, we start with family photographs.
This is often forgotten because everyone focuses on the cake smash itself, but these images become some of the most treasured photographs.
After all, your baby's first birthday is a milestone for the whole family.
Step 3: Portraits of the Birthday Star
Next we photograph your little one on their own.
These clean portraits capture all those adorable little smiles, curious expressions and tiny details before any cake makes an appearance.
Step 4: Piano Portraits
Before the cake comes out, it's time for one of my favourite parts of the session—the piano portraits.
Your little one gets changed into a second outfit and photographed on our beautiful studio piano. T
hese timeless images are elegant, playful, and often become some of the parents' favourite photographs from the entire session.
Whether your baby is happily tapping the keys, laughing, or simply sitting and exploring, we capture those precious little moments naturally.
It's the perfect way to celebrate your baby's personality before the fun (and messy!) cake smash begins.
Step 5: Time for the Cake!
Now comes everyone's favourite part...The cake!
Some babies dive straight in.Others carefully poke the icing with one finger.
Some decide they'd rather crawl away!Every reaction is different—and that's what makes every cake smash unique.
There is absolutely no expectation that your baby has to "perform." I simply photograph whatever makes them happy.
Step 6: Milk Bath
Than comes the warm milk bath after the cake smash.
Not only does it help clean up the icing...It also creates some of the cutest photographs of the entire session!
Most babies absolutely love splashing in the water.
What If My Baby Cries?
This is probably the question I hear most.
The truth is...It happens sometimes.
As a photographer with 17 years of experience, I've worked with hundreds of little ones.
We never force a baby to do anything they're uncomfortable with.
Sometimes all they need is a cuddle, a short break or a little time to settle.
The goal is always happy memories—not stressful ones.
What Is Included?
✔ Studio session
✔ Beautiful themed setup
✔ Access to selected studio outfits
✔ Time for family photographs
✔ Cake smash
✔ Milk Bath
✔ Professional editing
Ready to Celebrate?
If your little one is turning one soon, I'd love to help you celebrate this special milestone.
Every cake smash session is individually styled to create timeless photographs you'll treasure forever.
Book your Cake Smash Session today and let's create memories you'll never forget.
