Hamilton NJ Cake Smash Photographer - Tips for a Cake Smash Photo Session
How to Prepare for a First Birthday & Cake Smash Session
Plan your session early : If you have a specific photographer in mind its always a good idea to contact them at least 3 months prior to your child's birth date, sometimes sooner if your child's birthday is between September-December. You'll want to book your session early so that you get the date you want but also to give your photographer time to gather materials needed to create the set for your session. You also may want the images from the session ready for your child’s actual birthday or party to print out and display. In that case, I suggest scheduling your child's session at least 2-3 weeks before their birthdate or event.
Share your ideas : I encourage my clients to make their own cake smash session design and location choices. Now is the time to be opinionated, I love hearing your ideas! I also have lots of suggestions to help you choose exactly what you envision. Please provide sample images if you have specific ideas or colors in mind. I supply any color balloons or ribbon garland to go with any color scheme or theme
Be prepared to stay a while : First Birthday & Cake Smash Session with me will typically take about one hour, sometimes more sometimes less, it all depends on the pace your little one sets for us. I block out two hours for each session so we never need to feel rushed.
Timing is everything : It's a good idea to schedule your session around your child's morning nap. The day is still fresh and sessions are designed to feel a lot like play time. Making sure your child has a proper meal just before your session will also help them to focus and have good energy.
What to wear : When it comes to outfits it can be overwhelming with all the adorable choices out there. I always suggest choosing outfits based on what you feel is timeless. If you booked a full Cake Smash Session we have time for two clean outfits and one cake smash outfit. Typically parents choose one formal outfit, one casual and then something simple for the cake smash. Frosting will likely stain the clothing, please keep this in mind if you are planning to use an outfit again. Rompers and tutus are cute for girls. Onesies, diaper cover or jeans with suspenders is a popular choice for boys
Bring snacks mom! ..and something to drink. We take lots of breaks to help keep your little one from becoming overstimulated or bored. Sips of water during the cake smashing helps to clear your littles ones mouth and avoid gagging. Tiny bite-size snacks such as puffs, gold fish or cheerios are great for encouragement too.
Be prepared for a mess : One thing parents don’t often realize is that you too will likely become covered in cake and frosting during the session, your little one will be running/crawling straight towards you with frosting covered hands. Lots of extra wipes or a wet wash cloth and a change of clothes to go home in is a good idea along with a plastic bag to put the dirty smash clothes into.
