At Elizabeth Lang Photography,
Cake smash sessions are always some of the most fun and memorable sessions to photograph. Whether you’re celebrating a first birthday or another special milestone, these sessions are all about capturing your little one’s personality, curiosity, and joy. There are usually lots of laughs, a little bit of chaos, and of course plenty of icing-covered fingers and cheeks along the way!
A little preparation ahead of time can make a huge difference in helping the session run smoothly and keeping your baby happy and comfortable. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your cake smash session.
1. Timing Matters
Cake smash sessions are most commonly done around your baby’s first birthday, but they can absolutely be done for second or even third birthdays too. The most important thing is choosing a time when your child is usually well-rested, fed, and happiest. Babies and toddlers tend to enjoy the experience much more when they are not overtired or hungry.
If possible, try to plan the session after a nap and a meal or snack. A happy baby almost always leads to more smiles, more interaction, and a smoother experience overall.
Tip: Arriving a few minutes early can really help. It gives your child time to warm up to the studio, explore the space a little, and settle in before we begin photographing. A calm start makes a big difference!
2. Outfit Choices
Choosing the right outfit for the cake smash session is important, not just for style, but for comfort too. Many parents opt for a simple, cute onesie, a suspender outfit, or a dress that lets your baby move freely. Light, solid colours such as pastels, whites, and soft neutrals tend to work best for these types of shoots because they make your baby the focus of the photo without distracting from the cake or background.
Tip: Consider an outfit that is easy to change in and out of, as we may also want to get some non-cake smash photos before the mess begins!
3. Cake Selection
For a classic and timeless look, I always recommend a neutral cake—something simple and elegant, like a white cake or a naked cake. These styles not only look beautiful but are versatile enough to complement any theme you choose for the session. You can easily embellish the cake with natural elements like flowers or greenery to tie it into the overall theme of the shoot. The simpler, the better—less frosting means less mess, which can help keep your little one comfortable.
If you have a specific theme in mind for the session, we can also work together to coordinate the cake's colours and details to match the vibe. I can provide guidance if you’re unsure about how to style the cake, but keep in mind the goal is to keep things simple and sweet.
Tip: Avoid cakes that are too heavy on frosting or intricate designs, as it can be overwhelming for your baby and difficult to manage during the shoot.
4. Plan for Mess
One of the best things about a cake smash is the mess, and it’s guaranteed that your little one will get their hands (and maybe face) covered in cake! Make sure you bring extra clothes for after the session, as things can get pretty messy. It’s also helpful to have a wet cloth or baby wipes on hand for quick clean-ups.
Tip: Be sure to have a change of clothes for yourself as well, just in case you get a bit of frosting on your clothes during the shoot!
5. Prepare for a Bit of Chaos
Not all babies immediately dive into the cake with enthusiasm! Some may be hesitant or unsure about touching the cake, while others may go straight for it. Patience is key during the session. It can take a little time for them to warm up to the idea of smashing the cake, but with a bit of encouragement (and maybe a few peeks at mom or dad’s reactions), they usually get the hang of it. I’ll work closely with you to capture those sweet moments, whether it’s curiosity or pure cake-munching joy.
Tip: Don’t worry about the mess—it’s all part of the fun! The more relaxed you are, the more your baby will be too.
6. Set a Fun, Playful Tone
Cake smash sessions are a celebration of your baby’s first year, so it’s important to keep the energy fun and relaxed. Feel free to bring along any props or items that make your baby happy, like a favourite toy or a cute sign with their name or birthday number. A cheerful atmosphere will help your little one feel comfortable and playful, so they can enjoy the cake (and the experience) to the fullest.
Tip: Bring along a fun playlist of your baby’s favourite tunes or your go-to songs to keep the mood upbeat!
7. Be Ready for the Aftermath
After the cake smash, things can get a little messy, but it’s all part of the experience! I always have clean-up supplies ready, but you may want to have a change of clothes for your baby to get them comfortable after the session. You can also prepare a small snack for your little one to enjoy while we wrap up and finish the session.
Tip: Consider a quick photo with your baby and their messy face as a final shot—it’s a fun way to end the session and shows just how much fun they had!
Final Thoughts: Memories You’ll Treasure for Years
Cake smash sessions are such a fun and meaningful way to celebrate your little one’s milestone birthday. With a little preparation ahead of time, the session can be relaxed, playful, and full of genuine moments you’ll treasure for years to come. From frosting-covered fingers to big gummy smiles, these photos capture a stage of childhood that passes by so quickly.
These images often become favourites not just for parents, but for grandparents, family members, and eventually even your child as they grow older. They preserve the joy, personality, and sweetness of this exciting season of life in a way that feels timeless and real.
If you’re ready to plan a cake smash session, I would love to help create something beautiful and memorable for your family. Elizabeth Lang Photography is located in Surrey near Vancouver and specializes in maternity, newborn, family, and milestone photography. My goal is always to create a calm, enjoyable experience while capturing genuine moments you will cherish for years to come.
YOUR FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION WITH ELIZABETH LANG PHOTOGRAPHY
Updated May 2026