CAKE SMASH SESSION GUIDE

A little mess. A lot of personality. A sweet little moment worth remembering.

Your baby’s first birthday is such a special milestone, and I’m so excited to capture it! Cake smash sessions are meant to be fun, relaxed, and completely baby-led. Some little ones dive right into their cake, while others would much rather poke it, crawl away from it, or decide icing is absolutely not their thing—and that’s all part of the experience.

I’ll take care of the setup, styling, and mess. All you need to do is bring your little one and a few essentials!

YOUR SESSION

Your cake smash session includes 30 minutes of shoot time and 10 high-resolution digital images.

I create one customized cake smash setup designed around the theme, colors, or inspiration we’ve discussed prior to your session.

Your little one may have up to two outfits total, allowing for one outfit change during the session. Parents are responsible for providing all outfits, so please have both completely ready to go when you arrive.

THE CAKE

Please bring your baby’s cake and any other edible items you would like included in the session.

Because every child is different and food allergies and sensitivities can be serious, Jessica Blair Photography does not provide cakes. This allows you to choose foods you already know are safe and appropriate for your child.

A small cake that is soft and easy for little hands to explore photographs beautifully!

TIPS AND TRICK

Not every baby loves cake—and that's completely normal! Some babies aren't interested in eating it, while others don't like the sticky feeling of cake or icing on their hands and skin.

I recommend bringing a small container of puffs, cheerios, or another clean, bite-sized snack your baby loves. We can discreetly tuck a few behind or into the cake to encourage them to reach toward it and help us get those adorable “eating the cake” moments.

Please avoid messy or strongly colored snacks that could stain your baby's skin, clothing, or the set.

WHEN TO SCHEDULE

Whenever possible, I recommend scheduling your session shortly after your baby wakes for the day and at least one hour before their usual nap time.

Try to keep the hours leading up to the session as normal and low-key as possible. A rested baby with a full belly usually gives us the best chance for happy expressions and playful moments.

AFTER THE SMASH

Once we've made a wonderfully adorable mess, we'll finish with my little “bath time” setup.

Your baby will be photographed in a bathtub-style prop for sweet cleanup-inspired portraits. No water is used in thetub. It’s simply a fun way to finish the story of their cake smash!

WHAT TO BRING

Your cake
Up to 2 outfits for the session
An extra change of clothes for baby, just in case
Baby wipes and/or a small towel
Puffs, Cheerios, or another favorite clean snack
Water, milk, or your baby's usual drink

Cake can sometimes be dry or difficult for an excited little one to swallow, especially when they're taking big bites, so having their usual drink nearby is always a good idea.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Cake smash sessions are completely baby-led. Your little one may laugh, crawl, make a spectacular mess, refuse to touch the cake, or do a little bit of everything. For our speedy crawlers and early walkers, I may occasionally need your help gently guiding your little one back onto the set.

And when the smashing is over, leave the mess to me! There's no need to help clean the set, props, or floor. I've got it covered.