Hey there, soon-to-be TODDLER parents! Your BABY is about to be ONE and I am so thrilled for you! As your baby enters into toddler-hood, it’s SO important to take as many photos as you can! And I ALWAYS recommend a 1st birthday photoshoot and/or cake smash!
As a photographer who specializes in capturing those precious moments, I’m thrilled to guide you through the exciting world of cake smash photoshoots. Your little one’s first birthday is a milestone worth celebrating, and what better way to do so than with a cake smash session? In this guide, I’ll share some tips and ideas to help you prepare for a memorable and delightful photoshoot.
- Selecting the Perfect Cake:
The cake is the star of the show, so choose one that not only looks amazing but is also baby-friendly. Opt for a small, simple cake with soft frosting. Make sure to inform the baker about any allergies your child may have, and consider the color scheme/decorations to match your preferred theme. I’m always more than willing and excited to discuss and weigh in on design. My preferred and recommended baker is The Purple Sprinkle Cake Shoppe. Chef Bri is SO talented and her cakes are DELICIOUS! Which is important for you because we ALL know who is going to be eating what’s left of the cake! Also, and I cannot stress this enough: ALWAYS avoid RED or BROWN icing (think about it… yeah) and even red or brown cake just to be safe. A while or yellow cake work perfectly for smash cakes.
- Choosing the Right Location:
Decide on a location that complements your vision for the photoshoot. Most parents prefer to come to our studio, where I already have everything set up for you before you arrive! You and I will discuss theme, color, and design long before the day of the shoot and I send out a “mock” in advance to make sure that once you arrive we can get right to the business of taking baby’s pictures!
You can also opt for outdoor settings like gardens or parks, or stick with the coziness of their own homes. Whatever works for YOU, works for US!
- Setting the Scene:
Again, we’ve got the design part of your session covered! All you need to do is let me know what theme and/or colors you prefer during your initial consult (inspiration pictures and/or pinterest board are also AMAZING for making sure we are on the same page regarding your vision for the photos) and I’ll take care of the rest! Any extra props you want to use – or especially things that are customized to your little one – just let me know and I will try to find a way to incorporate it into the setup!
- Dressing Your Little One:
Selecting the perfect outfit for your little one is crucial. Keep it simple and comfortable, and stick with outfits that match the chosen theme or color scheme. A cute tutu, onesie, or a little bow tie can add an adorable touch without overwhelming the photos.
- Timing is Everything:
Plan the photoshoot around your baby’s schedule to ensure they’re well-rested and in a good mood. Consider scheduling the session in the morning or after a nap when your little one is likely to be more cooperative and energetic.
- Have Essentials On Hand:
Bring along essentials like wipes, extra outfits, and a towel to clean up the mess after the cake smash. Be prepared for a messy, but incredibly fun, experience!
- Capturing the Sweet and Candid Moments:
Encourage your baby to explore and enjoy the cake on their terms. One of the best things parents can do for me during the session is standing behind me and helping get baby’s attention. I have several tricks up my sleeve but one of the most powerful tools is the parents working with me!
Conclusion:
Your child’s first birthday is a momentous occasion, and a cake smash photoshoot is the perfect way to commemorate this milestone. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your little one. Remember, the goal is to capture the joy, mess, and pure sweetness of the moment. I look forward to creating beautiful memories with you and your adorable one-year-old!
Here’s more information about our Cake Smash Photoshoots and how you can get yours booked TODAY:
Simple Cake Smash | Don’t let the name of this session type fool you! Simple doesn’t mean boring! Our Simple Cake Smash session includes one personalized set up with the theme of your choice that perfectly highlights your little one’s personality; and one simple seamless set up perfect for timeless birthday portraits that can be hung up on the wall year-round! | Session fee $400 | Up to 45 minute session in our South Fulton studio | 5 digital images included, additional Prints, Artwork, Gifts, & Digital images sold separately during the Viewing & Ordering Session!
Cake Smash & Splash | If you want to take your cake smash to another level, the Smash & Splash is the perfect option for you! This session type also includes the one portrait setup and the one personalized smash setup… but we add on a set of SPLASH photos after the cake smash! | Session fee $500 | Up to 60 minute session in our South Fulton studio | 5 digital images included, additional Prints, Artwork, Gifts, & Digital images sold separately during the Viewing & Ordering Session!
Outdoor and At-Home Cake Smash Sessions Session fee $500 | Up to 6o min session at an agreed upon outdoor location – or at or right outside of the Client’s home – within 40 miles of midtown Atlanta (as far South as Newnan and as far North as Dacula; view coverage area map below) Travel fee applicable for locations outside of coverage area | This session type includes one personalized set up with the theme of your choice that perfectly highlights your little one’s personality; and one simple seamless set up perfect for timeless birthday portraits that can be hung up on the wall year-round! | 5 digital images included, additional Prints, Artwork, Gifts, & Digital images sold separately during the Viewing & Ordering Session!
Cake smash sessions are such a fun way to celebrate your little one and this special milestone!
**Psssst! Here’s a PRO tip: if you don’t see a time or date that works for you on our availability calendar, feel free to reach out to us (contactphoenixprod@gmail.com) with your preferred date and time and we MAY be able to accommodate!
phoenixproductionsatl.com 