How to plan a cake smash for your child’s first birthday photos

How to plan a cake smash for baby’s first birthday to celebrate their one year old milestone! What better way to capture the joy than with a first birthday cake smash session?

At Renee Ash Photography Studio in The Shoppes at Lafayette, Lafayette, NJ, I specialize in creating beautifully minimally styled birthday sessions focused on play! In keeping with minimalism I keep the themeing to a minimum and simplistic keeping the focus on your sweet birthday kiddo!

This smash celebrating Sophia was a simple Pink Bow Cake Smash, a charming and sweet setup featuring pink and white color scheme and timeless classic toys for her to enjoy during her photo session.

From giggles and tears to frosting-covered hands, or avoidance of the cake all together, every moment is photographed in a fun and relaxed environment, ensuring your little one’s personality shines through. If you’re planning your baby’s cake smash session, here are the top five things to consider:

1. Styling your cake smash photo shoot 

A simple minimally themed session is perfection in my book. Keeping your baby as the main focus with minimal distractions is ideal in my book. Whether it’s a pink bow theme, floral elegance, or a playful pastel palette, coordinating outfits, props, and cake design ensures a cohesive and polished final look. Our studio provides beautifully curated props, wardrobe for your birthday child, and a simple naked white cake, so all you need to do is bring your little one!

2. The Location of your birthday photoshoot

The Renee Ash Photography Studio, located in The Shoppes at Lafayette, offers a professional and cozy space with perfect lighting for capturing stunning cake smash moments. An indoor studio guarantees comfort, regardless of the weather, and provides a controlled environment for the best photos. Babies are often happiest mid-morning when the lighting is less than ideal outdoors – making the studio the perfect choice!

3. The Extras Provided for your your birthday cake photo session

The Studio space in The Shoppes at Lafayette offers extras such as outfit options, themed props, balloons, and even the cake!! These add-ons make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for both parents and baby. All you need to do is show up!

4. Experience Matters

Choose a photographer with expertise in baby and milestone photography. An experienced photographer knows how to capture genuine smiles, handle baby-led sessions with patience, and create a stress-free experience for both parents and babies. As parents you know your little one can become overwhelmed – I ensure we have enough time for your baby to warm up – take breaks – and enjoy their experience with me!

5. The End Result of your cake smash shoot  & Products Offered

Beyond digital images, consider what products are available. Albums, framed prints, and custom wall art ensure you have tangible keepsakes from this adorable stage of your child’s life. At Renee Ash Photography, we provide high-quality products that will be treasured for years to come.

BONUS! Parents are welcome! It is as much your milestone birthday as it is theirs! You’ve made it through the first year! Parents are ALWAYS welcome to hop into the photos with their birthday kiddo! A family options is also available if you would like to include parents, siblings, and even the family dog!

Planning your baby’s cake smash session? Contact Renee Ash Photography to book your session today and create picture-perfect memories of this milestone!