What is a cake smash shoot?
Cake smash photography started in the US, traditionally celebrating a big birthday milestone and these are also often used for the birthday party invitations. Usually, the cake smash is for the first birthday, but it can be for any birthday at all. I have seen photos of 30-year olds doing cake smash photos and it looks like just as much fun!
Why should you book a cake smash shoot?
They are only young once, and these photos will last a lifetime! It is also a great birthday present for you or friends/family to give to your child. Many people wonder what to give a 1-year-old for their birthday, and a cake smash shoot is a gift that they get to enjoy forever.
The photoshoot itself is also such a fun experience, especially for kids that are naturally messy eaters. They get to really go wild!
How do you choose a theme for your child?
I have many themes to choose from, you can see them all here. If your child is old enough, you can ask them what they like, and otherwise you can go for what your favourite is.
What happens during the shoot?
We start off with photos without the cake. This is also a great time for parents/siblings to join in for a few pictures. We might have a hard time getting a little one to stay in place, so if you have a little explorer make sure you wear comfortable clothing to keep putting your child back in place and I will be ready to snap each time! I am an expert at getting lots of photos from even the quickest movers.
Then we switch it up and do just the cake.
Next is the most important part, the smashing bit! We put the child behind the cake and see how they react. Nine times out of ten young ones will just look a bit confused and unsure of what the task is, so this is when the parents can show how it works and help out with the smashing. Sometimes, I give them a spoon as this might help them catch on that this thing is for eating.
At the end, we can do a little 'splash' in the bucket for the littles ones if you like. This washes all the cake off and gives some awesome photos especially if your kiddo loves bath time. Sometimes it is the most fun part of the shoot, especially when we bring out the bubble machine!
What if my child doesn't cooperate?
I always try to schedule the photoshoot during the best time of day for your child, at a time when they are usually the happiest. I have lots of playful props, bubbles and songs at hand to try and get the best out of your child, and I will go above and beyond to make it all happen smoothly.
However, sometimes we might want to try again if it's just not happening - kiddos can just be tired or overwhelmed or teething. We can try later in the same day or a day later, and there is no charge for a retry.
Should we buy a cake or make it ourselves?
It totally depends on your preference and your own baking abilities. While sometimes an elaborate cake can make the photos better, often a simple cake with some decorations can be just as good.
If your child has specific allergies, you might want to bake the cake yourself so you can be sure it is safe.
The best cake to 'smash' is a light sponge and cream base and buttercream icing in a colour that works well with the theme or you can use whipped cream on top for ultimate smashability.
When should you book?
The photoshoot is usually done about 1-4 weeks before the actual birthday. You will be able to have the photos ready (possibly even printed) to show your guests at their party. We can also try for the actual birthday date, but you never know if someone gets the sniffles and we have to reschedule.
For most themes, you can book anywhere up to a few days before the shoot date. If you are specific about balloon colours or if you have your own special idea you want me to create, please give me as much notice as possible so I can source everything.
You can have a look at all the different themes here and get in touch to book a photoshoot or to ask any other questions you may have.