Orange County Cake Smash Photography: First Birthday Photoshoots

Your baby’s first birthday is a milestone worth celebrating, and a cake smash photography session is the perfect way to capture this special moment! As an Orange County baby photographer, I create a fun, playful experience that results in timeless, joy-filled portraits. Plus, to make your session even more magical, I offer a complimentary balloon garland customized to match your baby’s birthday theme!

Whether you plan to display these adorable portraits at their first birthday party or use them for invitations, here’s everything you need to know about booking your cake smash photoshoot – including expert tips to make the session a success.

What is a cake smash session?

A cake smash photography session usually takes place around your baby’s first birthday. When you book a cake smash session, you will bring your little one to my studio where we’ll get them all set up for the session. Basically, we give them free rein of the cake, and I photograph the event as it unfolds. It’s a wonderful way to capture exciting candids of your ever-changing and growing baby.

First Birthday Cake Smash Tips

  • Schedule your cake smash photography session 4-8 weeks before your desired date
  • If you want to showcase the portraits at their first birthday party or use them on invitations, schedule your session for when they are 11 months old
  • Do a practice run with your baby. By teaching them how fun (and delicious!) it is to get messy with a cake a week before the session, they’ll be more likely to dig in for the winning portraits
  • Go with the flow on the big day. Some babies are more reserved and some go all out. Either way, you’ll walk away with beautiful portraits that showcase your unique babe
  • Choose to have a cake smash photography session with just your baby, or include siblings and mom and dad for some added fun
  • Don't forget to bring changes of clothes for mom, dad, and baby. Everyone tends to get messy!
  • Pricing

    INVEST IN YOUR MEMORIES...

    First Birthday

    Cake Smash

    +

    Family / Siblings

    Session Fee

    First Birthday

    Cake Smash

    Session Fee

    250

    200

    * Add $75 per baby for multiples
    * Add $25 for family dog

    Session Fee includes:

  • Pre-session Consultation via email or in-person to customize your portrait session.
  • A session prep guide for a successful session
  • Photoshoot & full access to unique props (ie. balloon garland, vintage high chair, bathtub, cake stands)
  • Post-production time
  • Design and ordering consultation to view and select your portraits
  • - Session fee DOES NOT include prints, products, or digital images.  They are purchased separately.  A boutique line of products is available, including gallery wrap canvases, albums, folio boxes, etc.

    If your little one has a milestone coming soon and would like to reserve a first birthday/cake smash photo session, please contact us as early as possible to secure your preferred date.