Cake Smash FAQ | Scranton, PA | NEPA Photographer

Planning a cake smash photoshoot for your little one? It’s such a fun and memorable way to celebrate their first birthday! As a mom and a photographer in NEPA, I know you probably have lots of questions. Here’s everything you need to know to make your little one’s cake smash session a success!

When Should I Schedule a Cake Smash Session?

I recommend booking your cake smash session at least a month in advance, especially if you’re hoping to have the photos in time for a birthday party or invitations. The best time to schedule the actual shoot is when your baby is around 11 months old—this way, you’ll have plenty of time to get the edited photos back before their big day!

What You Can Expect During a Cake Smash Photoshoot?

A cake smash session is all about fun and capturing your baby’s personality! We usually start with a few clean portraits of your little one before bringing out the cake then we add siblings and family for some portraits. It is optional to bring two outfits and I always recommend having two and one specifically for the cake smash. Once the cake is introduced, we let your baby explore at their own pace—some dive right in, while others need a little encouragement. I’ll be snapping away, capturing all the giggles, curiosity, and adorable messy moments. If you opt for a splash session afterward, we’ll end with a bubble bath cleanup, which makes for the cutest final photos and helps wash away the frosting mess!

How Do We Choose the Theme and Colors?

We will work together to create a beautiful set up. I will ask you to tell me about your vision and from there I will give you some ideas of what we can create. If you need ideas, I have many favorites I can share. My style is more minimal, simple, elegant, and timeless. I tend to advise parents to go with softer colors that won’t be too distracting in the background. I prefer to stay away from too many props so that the focus is on your precious baby. Less props and more connection and personality in the photos is my goal.

What Should We Wear for a Cake Smash?

I like to recommend light neutral colors. Try to stay away from super matchy outfits and wear colors that compliment each other. I love the example in this blog because dad’s shirt is light pink which compliments the theme and mom choose a neutral color dress. If you need help, I will be happy to share ideas with you.

How Do I Prepare for the Session?

To make sure your little one is happy and ready for their big moment, try to schedule the session after a good nap or early in the morning after breakfast so they’re well-rested and not cranky. A full belly is also a must! A small snack beforehand can help keep them content without making them too sleepy. If your baby hasn’t had cake before, I highly recommend a test-run at home so they can get used to the texture and taste—some babies love it right away, while others need a little warming up! Also, bring extra wipes, a change of clothes (for both baby and parents). Most importantly, relax and enjoy the moment—it’s all about celebrating this sweet milestone!

What If My Baby Doesn’t Want to Smash the Cake?

Not all babies dive right in, and that’s okay! Some little ones need a little encouragement, so I recommend letting them explore the cake at their own pace. You can help by breaking off a piece for them to taste, using a favorite toy for distraction, or even letting an older sibling or parent get involved. Sometimes, just a little hand-holding is all it takes to get them started!

I recommend giving your child a small cupcake a few days before to let them play with it to help prepare for the session. You may also bring your baby’s favorite snacks like cheerios to hide them behind the cake. For babies who don’t like the texture, I offer a small wooden spoon to help them dig in and participate more.

Do You Provide the Cake?

Yes! I provide a simple white round cake that I decorate with a cake topper or flowers to match the theme. If you have a specific vision in mind, let me know, and we can customize the details! If your child has an allergy then you will be asked to provide the cake for safety reasons.

How Long Does a Cake Smash Session Last?

Cake smash sessions typically last about 45 minutes to 1 hour. We start with some clean portraits before introducing the cake, then let your baby have fun smashing away! If you’d like, we can finish with a fun bubble bath cleanup, which makes for adorable photos and helps get all the frosting off.

I’m ready to book. What are the next steps?

I’d love to capture this fun milestone for your little one! Whether you’re dreaming of a themed setup, a simple outdoor session, or a cozy in-home shoot, let’s make it happen. Contact me today, and let’s start planning your baby’s first birthday celebration!