Your little baby is growing so fast and is now almost one, and it is time to plan for their one year photos. Cake smashes are so adorable and fun and truly one of my favorite sessions to shoot.
Here are a few tips for planning a successful cake smash session for your baby’s first year photos!
1- Book Early
Although I am able to accommodate “last minute bookings”, booking 1-2 months in advance will give us time to discuss color schemes and order any necessary items for your custom set.
2- Plan ahead!
If you’d like to use your portraits to display at your baby’s birthday party, I recommend having your session when baby is around 11-months old to allow for plenty of time to order prints to display.
3- Bring snacks.
Believe it or not, babies won’t always love the taste and texture of cake, as for some, it is the first time they’re experiencing that texture and sweetness. I stock the studio with baby puffs but please feel free to bring small snacks that your baby likes such as berries, puffs, etc.
4- Plan for nap time!
You don’t want a cranky and over-tired baby for these. Trust me! I know baby’s nap times can be a bit unpredictable, but planning your session around nap time will help decrease chances of your baby being overtired, and therefore he/she will be happier for pictures.
P.S.: if baby refuses a nap that day, don’t stress! Life happens and we will navigate it as best as we can!
5- Embrace the mess
If baby gets really into the “smashing” part of the session, it will make for some adorable photos. Embrace the mess and make sure you have a spare outfit and diaper for the ride home. The studio is stocked with baby wipes that you are welcome to use!
6- Outfits
In order to achieve the light and airy look you see in my photos, I suggest wearing light neutral colors, subtle patterns, etc. All studio sessions give you access to the Studio Client Closet, which includes several beautifully curated outfits for moms (sizes XS - XXXL) and kids (6 mo - 4T) to wear for their photos. I suggest men wear khaki, gray, caramel or other light non-dress pants (chino, linen, or non blue denim) & any neutral & soft shirts.
7- Join in!
What makes my cake smash sessions unique is that I always include the family, unless asked otherwise.
We start the session with family photos and then move on to the star of the show afterwards.
A baby’s first birthday is a core memory and having the whole family included in these portraits will be so special!
Maria Gloer Photography offers a full service experience providing classic and timeless newborn photography in the Nashville area. The beautiful light and airy MGP studio is located in Hendersonville, TN. All studio sessions include access to the Client Closet, styling consultation + digital images and the option to purchase from an array of stunning artwork such as Heirloom prints and albums.
