What is a cake smash session?

A cake smash session also known as a first birthday portrait session captures the very important milestone of your baby turning one.

What does the session entail?

During cake smash sessions we have three portions, the first is used to capture simple timeless portraits of your baby, followed by a cake smashing session (cake not included - please get in touch to discuss) where baby gets busy with their cake! Lastly we bring out our gorgeous bath prop for baby to have a splash about in, this usually gives us so many giggles and smiles for the camera! Full set decor, styling and outfits are provided for your session.

When is the best time to book in?

It is best to book in a few months before your child’s first birthday in order to ensure a session with me, this is because I only offer a set number of places per month and tend to book up a few months in advance. If you wait until the last minute to get in touch we may not have spaces or adequate time to order in your requested choice of set décor.

Who provides the cake?

We do not provide the cake for your session for health and safety purposes. You need to ensure you have arranged and brought the cake with you on the day. This can be a custom made cake or shop brought cake. If you would like to use the cake only as a prop but not for your baby to smash we have a dummy cake to be decorated with the style of set you have chosen and used alongside baby as a prop only.

How long does the session take?

The session takes on average between an hour to 90 minutes. One year old’s have a short attention span so we work quickly!

What time of day is best to schedule a cake smash session?

The best time of day for a cake smash session is after your baby’s day time morning nap or when you know they are happiest during the day. This ensures baby is well rested and content for the session. Please advise me on this prior to confirming the session time as this varies for each baby.

My baby doesn’t like cake, is this an issue?

No, some baby’s have allergies and some parents prefer to not have a real cake during the session. In these cases we have a dummy cake that can be decorated and used as a prop only.

What will my baby wear?

Prior to the session I will get you to fill in a form to find out which colours, poses and style of images you prefer. When you arrive at the studio you can select from the outfits and accessories we have. You may also bring your own outfits if you wish.

What if my baby cries or is shy on the day?

Many parents worry about this prior to the session. Rest assured all babies do cry but this is part of my job. If this happens we will ensure baby is fed, winded and changed before settling and getting back to photographing. I will always take time at the start to get to know baby a little before diving in.

Are the décor and set included in the session?

Yes, these are included in the session. If you have a more specific theme in mind please let us know at least 3 weeks in advance so we can order things in if needed.

How should we prepare for the session?

To best prepare for your session please read the cake smash/first birthday session preparation guide which can be found by clicking the link below.

Session preparation guides — MAGICAL MOON PHOTOGRAPHY - NOTTINGHAM NEWBORN AND BABY SPECIALIST

Can we have photos taken with our baby?

A cake smash set is set with décor and is generally very low down to the ground to be on level with baby. Cake smash sessions are messy for these reasons parent and family portraits are not included in cake smash sessions.

Can we bring our own outfits ?

The session includes styling using my own photography style that I have developed over the years. I hope that you have seen my portfolio and have chosen to book in for this reason. we provide a range of props and accessories but you are also welcome to bring your own for these sessions.

How many images will you take?

Every baby is different , and the gallery size comes down to how baby is on the day. Most galleries consist of 15 to 25 fully edited images for you to choose from.

How long will it take to get our photos back?

Gallery turnaround time is 3 weeks at normal periods and 4 weeks around busy periods. We recommend you book in a month before baby’s actual DOB if you wish the images to be ready by the time your baby’s birthday comes around.

How will we see our finished photos?

You will be able to see your finished gallery and make your image selections online, from between 3 to 4 weeks after your session date.

How long will our printed order take?

If your order contains printed products or wall art this usually takes 3 to 4 weeks after your viewing appointment. You are then contacted once they are ready.

How will we receive our digital photos and printed products?

Digital files are all sent online via instant image transfer services. This arrives to you in the form of a link where our can download your selected images securely from the server.

If your order contains printed products or wall art, these can be collected in person or postage can be arranged.