How to Prepare for a Cake Smash Session: Tips for a Sweet and Fun Experience

At Elizabeth Lang Photography, one of the most fun and memorable sessions we offer is the cake smash. Whether you’re celebrating your little one’s first birthday or marking another milestone, a cake smash is an opportunity to capture the joy and mess of the moment. It’s a time for laughs, smiles, and plenty of frosting! But before we dive into the icing and sprinkles, it’s important to prepare for the session to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here’s your guide to getting ready for the ultimate cake smash photoshoot!

1. Timing Is Key

Cake smash sessions are usually done around your baby’s first birthday, but can also be done for second or third birthdays. Ideally, the session should happen when your baby is in a good mood and well-rested. This will help them feel comfortable and playful during the shoot. Try to schedule the session for a time of day when your baby is happiest—maybe after a nap or following a feed.

Tip: Arrive a little early so your baby has time to adjust to the studio and surroundings. This will also help you avoid rushing right before the session starts!

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: A Memory You’ll Treasure

Cake smash sessions are about celebrating your baby’s first year in the sweetest way possible. With a little bit of preparation, you’ll be ready for a fun, messy, and memorable photoshoot that you and your family will treasure for years to come. These photos will be cherished not just by you, but also by grandparents, aunts, uncles, and future generations. So let’s make your little one’s first birthday extra special and create timeless memories together!

If you’re ready to book a cake smash session, I’d love to chat with you about how to make it an unforgettable experience. Feel free to reach out to me at Elizabeth Lang Photography in Surrey, near Vancouver. Let’s create something sweet and memorable!

About Elizabeth Lang Photography:

Located in Surrey near Vancouver, Elizabeth Lang Photography specializes in maternity, newborn, family, and milestone photography. With over seven years of experience and a passion for capturing the most meaningful moments, Elizabeth helps families preserve their memories with style, grace, and creativity.


YOUR FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION WITH ELIZABETH LANG PHOTOGRAPHY