Cake Smash Photoshoot FAQs

Hopefully these FAQs will answer many, if not all, of your questions about a cake smash photoshoot. Should you have anything else that you would like answered, please contact me and I will respond promptly.

What can I expect at the cake smash photoshoot?

Some really cute images and a lot of mess! That 1st birthday is a milestone to remember so the session will start with some photos of the child in an outfit of your choice then we’ll do the cake smash and end with a bubble-filled splash bath!

When should I book my cAKE SMASH SESSION?

I recommend booking 4-6 weeks before their birthday. If you want images to display at their celebration or for invitations this will allow me enough time for scheduling the session and returning fully edited, digital images.

How long does the PORTRAIT session last?

Cake smash sessions last approximately an hour. This allows time for a mini photo session of the child in a clean outfit, followed by the cake smash and ending with getting cleaned up in the tub.

Will I get to choose the theme?

This is the fun part! We will work together to create a custom theme for your child. The theme can be as elaborate or as simple as you would like. You can even incorporate the theme of their 1st birthday party celebration! I can provide paper decorations and balloons and prefer to do the cake smash on my seamless paper (white, gray, or light taupe) as it is easiest to clean-up. For safety and liability reasons, I do not provide the cake.

Do I need to bring anything?

• You will need to provide the smash cake. Typically, a 5-6” cake with soft buttercream icing is sufficient. Most local bakeries should be able to make something simple.

• Snacks like puffs or cheerios and a drink

• A clean outfit for your child to go home in

• Any party decorations/elements that we would’ve discussed and agreed upon prior to the session date

Do you include parent or sibling shots?

At this time, cake smash photoshoots are for the child only. Parent and siblings are not included.

May I invite my family members to the session?

I prefer to keep the maximum family members at this session to the immediate family members only. Too many people trying to get your child to smile may be distracting or overwhelming.

What if my child doesn’t eat the cake?

This may happen. Some children love the cake smash and dig right in! Others are more hesitant and even get upset. Feel free to bring puffs, cheerios, or any other small snack that your child likes that we can place on the cake to entice him/her to participate.

Will I (mom or dad) get messy?

You most likely will! You may have to show your child that they can eat the cake so you might have to dip your finger in the icing or take a bite yourself. Your child may stand up and walk or crawl around so I will need your help with putting your child back into the designated place. You will likely get icing/cake on your clothes so please don’t wear anything you do not want to get ruined.

My child has a scratch/bruise on their face, is that ok?

Kids at this age are very mobile and prone to getting boo-boos, most of which are pretty easy to touch-up during the editing process.

What if my child is sick?

A healthy child is a happy child! Please let me know within 24 hours of your session if your child is sick, has a runny nose, or cough, so we can reschedule your photo session. Since I work very closely with newborns and other children, I need to be extra diligent in protecting my other clients.

All that sounds great, what do you need from me to book a session?

First, contact me so we can set a date for your session. Once that has been determined, I will require a signed contract and $100 non-refundable deposit to reserve your session date and rate. The contract will be sent to you via email and can be signed digitally. I will also send you an invoice for the deposit which can be paid with a debit or credit card. The remaining balance of your contract will be due on the day of the session.