A cake smash session is a fun way to celebrate your baby’s first birthday. As a parent, you play a big role in helping your little one enjoy the experience. Here’s some of my best tips for parents during cake smash sessions.
Tips for a successful cake smash sessions
Choose the Right Time
- Schedule the session when your baby is well-rested and fed.
- Avoid overlapping with nap times or late afternoons when they might be tired.
- A happy baby leads to better photos.
Dress for the Mess
- Pick an outfit that matches the theme but allows free movement.
- Avoid tight collars, itchy fabrics or anything that might bother your baby.
- Bring a backup outfit for after the session.
- Don’t forget to consider your own outfit! I promise, if your child is wearing cake, you will be too.
Encourage Exploration
- Let your baby touch and play with the cake before they are expected to eat it.
- Some babies hesitate to get messy, so a little practice and comforting words can help.
- Show excitement to make them feel comfortable.
Stay Close but Unobtrusive
- Sit nearby so your baby feels secure.
- Let them lead the interaction with the cake.
- Too much direction can make them unsure or hesitant.
Interact and Engage
- Clap, cheer and call their name to capture big smiles.
- If they seem unsure, feel free to go in and take a bite yourself. Kids learn from watching. This is a great role for older siblings as well. Just a bite or two is usually all it takes.
- Play their favorite song to create a fun atmosphere.
Trust the Photographer
- The photographer knows how to capture the best angles and moments.
- When you are calling their name, stand directly behind me, just above my head. This will help get them to look at my camera instead of off to the side
- Relax and enjoy watching your baby have fun.
Bring Essentials
- Pack wipes, a towel and a change of clothes for cleanup. I also have these things at the studio for you.
- A familiar toy or blanket can help comfort your baby if needed.
- Have a small snack and water on hand in case they need a break. Also a small snack to stick in a cake can sometimes get them started. Puffs are perfect for this.
Cake smash sessions are unpredictable, but that’s part of the fun. Stay present, enjoy the moment and let your baby take the lead. What kind of reactions do you think your little one will have? Feel free to grab some behind the scenes video and send it to me to use on social media! I love when parents capture me working with their kids!
Hope these tips for parents during cake smash sessions help you in your next experience!
