A cake smash photoshoot is a first birthday photography session where a baby interacts with a small birthday cake while being photographed. Sometimes parents opt to bring their own cake or it can be provided by the first birthday photographer. When it comes to a cake smash photoshoot in Philadelphia, you’ve got questions and we’ve got the answers. Read on!
Parents in Philadelphia and surrounding areas often book cake smash sessions to celebrate their child’s first year of life.
These sessions are popular because they capture natural expressions, curiosity, and playful birthday memories. In fact they are the one of the most popular sessions types at our studio in Newtown, PA
When Should You Book a Cake Smash Session?
The best time to schedule a cake smash photoshoot is when your baby is around 12 months old. If your baby is past their first birthday, have no fear! We have many families that come in months after their first birthday because let’s face it. Life. We recommend reaching out as early as 8-12 weeks before the birthday to ensure availability and to be sure we have enough time to put theme ideas together. Families in nearby areas such as Bucks County and Newtown should book early since first birthday sessions are high demand.
How Much Does a Cake Smash Photoshoot Cost in Philadelphia?
Cake smash photography pricing in the Philadelphia region typically ranges from $600 to $3200+ depending on customization. Most packages offered by photographers can include a printed product such as an album or tri-layout print and a mix of digital images.
Typical Pricing Factors
- Number of edited digital images, print products or gallery options
- Studio setup or themed props
- Cake inclusion
- Photographer experience
Basic sessions are more affordable, while luxury or highly customized sessions cost more.
What Is Included in a Cake Smash Session?
Our professional cake smash sessions include:
Many studios serving families in Philadelphia also help coordinate cake style and theme. Our clients find it helpful to setup a call to discuss their vision and get feedback on what is trending and what’s best for their little one.
- Pre-cake birthday portraits and a mini (10 minute) family session outside the farmhouse studio in Newtown, Bucks County
- Cake smash photography portion with basic set up (extensive and elaborate theme sets are extra)
- Simple cleanup or bath photos if the baby enjoys water
- Beautiful curated gallery of images to choose from
Professional photo editing including custom requests
Do Photographers Provide the Cake?
Some photographers include the cake or help arrange one. We do both. We work with a local baker to provide the cake for a small fee and have it ready when you arrive. We also have clients who prefer to make or purchase their own cake.
Simple buttercream cakes are often recommended because:
- They photograph well and do not leave food dye on the skin during the photos
- They are easier for babies to smash
- They reduce choking risk concerns
Always mention allergies or dietary preferences when booking.
What Should My Baby Wear for a Cake Smash?
Simple clothing works best for cake smash photography. We do have some very cute and simple outfits that will complement just about any theme! Popular choices include:
- Birthday themed outfits or custom “1st birthday” clothing
- Diaper covers or bloomers
- Tutus or suspenders
Avoid clothing with busy patterns because the cake and baby should remain the focus.
How Long Does a Cake Smash Photoshoot Take?
A typical session lasts about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- 20 minutes for welcome/warm up & portrait photos outside
20 minutes for cake smash play - 5–10 minutes for cleanup or bath photos
How Should Parents Prepare for a Cake Smash Session?
Before the Session :
- Make sure the baby is well rested
- Feed the baby lightly before arriving
- Bring an extra outfit and diapers
What to Bring to a Cake Smash Photoshoot
A happy baby is the most important!
- Favorite comfort item or a familiar toy that makes your baby laugh
- Wipes and towel
- Backup clothing
- Milk / water for baby!
What Happens After the cake smash Session?
- Images are professionally edited
- Within 1-2 weeks we schedule a zoom call to watch your slideshow and view + select your portraits
- Digital downloads and print orders are available shortly after
- Turnaround time is generally a few days can be rushed based on the desire to showcase images for an upcoming birthday party.
Are Cake Smash Sessions Good for Every Baby?
Every baby reacts differently to the cake and their desire to eat it or not! Even after 10 years of photographing babies, there hasn’t been a session that didn’t yield beautiful portraits that capture the milestone of a baby turning one. With cake all over their face or not!
Some babies immediately smash the cake, while others are more cautious and observe first.
Both behaviors create beautiful, authentic photos. Some babies immediately smash the cake, while others are more cautious and observe first. Both behaviors create beautiful, authentic photos.
Serving Families in Philadelphia and Nearby Communities
Most of our cake smash photography clients travel from the following areas :
- Philadelphia County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, Buck County, Mercer County
- Newtown, Yardley, New Hope, Princeton
- South Jersey
If your baby is turning one soon, consider scheduling a cake smash photoshoot to celebrate this special milestone.
Inquire
Heather is the ultimate family photographer in Bucks County. She helped us look our best at the photo shoot and was so great handling our sometimes difficult and rowdy 3 year old twins. We love the photos, Heather!
Jess S.
Heather Thomas is an award-winning family and newborn photographer serving Philadelphia and Ocean City, NJ. She holds a Master Photographer Certification from NAPCP in newborn, children and family photography. Known for her organic and simple style, Heather’s work has been featured in magazines and online publications around the country.
Heather Thomas is an award-winning family and newborn photographer serving Philadelphia and Ocean City, NJ. She holds a Master Photographer Certification from NAPCP in newborn, children and family photography. Known for her organic and simple style, Heather’s work has been featured in magazines and online publications around the country.
