Smash Cake Session Guide
A helpful guide to prepare you and your little one for a fun, stress-free first birthday session! Some of the links are affiliate links where I earn a small commission for my tried and true recommendations.
What to Bring
To make sure everything photographs beautifully, feel free to send me photos of any outfits or inspiration you’re considering. I’m always happy to help you choose what will look best and to ensure the set design coordinates perfectly with your outfit choices.
- 1–3 outfits (Smash cake outfit last-it gets messy!) Feel free to send me photos of outfit ideas so I can make sure the set matches perfectly.
Here are some of my favorite outfit ideas for those personality shots! We usually do personality shots first, then cake last.
Girls: (Personalized sweater, birthday girl dress, white tulle dress)
Boys: (Personalized sweater, romper)
- Sippy cup with water — little ones get thirsty and sometimes fussy during cake time.
- Snacks (puffs, Cheerios) to hide in the cake if needed.
- Clean clothes for after the session.
- Optional: A favorite toy for comfort or attention.
- Cake (see details below)
Cake Details
To ensure your photos look beautiful and the cake photographs well:
Recommended Cake Size
A 2-layer, 6-inch cake is perfect.
It’s the ideal proportion for your child and looks best in photos.
Recommended BakerS
Katie with Katie's Cakes and Bakes
IG: Chattanooga Custom Cake Artist
Facebook: Katie's Cakes and Bakes
Cell: 256-783-5635
Located in Ooltewah, TN
She is truly an artist — her cakes are beautiful, clean, and smash perfectly for photos.
Publix: Their cakes are delicious... Perfect if you are looking for a simple cake. Just be sure to ask for the 6 inch 2 layer cake or they may give you a tiny smash cake.
Cake Tips
- Avoid red or hot pink icing (they stain the skin and look like a crime scene!).
- Avoid chocolate icing for the same reason.
- Smooth buttercream photographs best.
- If your child has never had sweets, you can do a “practice cupcake” at home so the session is not their first time experiencing icing.
Frequently Asked Questions
“What if my child doesn’t eat the cake?”
Totally normal!
Many one-year-olds:
- don’t care for icing
- don’t like getting messy
- only want to poke at it
- want nothing to do with it at first
Part of the fun is capturing their reaction — whatever it may be!
Whether they dive in or gently poke with one finger, we still get adorable photos.
“What if my child is hesitant?”
We ease them in! After we get a few photos of them with the cake presentation:
- we can cut open the back of the cake to expose the cake part (most kids prefer this over frosting),
- we can place a few favorite snacks inside the cake,
- or let them explore at their own pace.
Some babies love the sensory experience. Others prefer to stay clean. Both are completely normal!
“Do I need to bring toys?”
You’re welcome to bring a favorite toy to help keep them comfortable or grab their attention. I also have toys and tricks on hand.
“Can parents or siblings be in photos?”
Absolutely! If you’d like a quick family photo at the beginning, just let me know.
How to Prepare Your Child
1. Schedule around naps.
A well-rested one-year-old = a happier experience.
2. Bring them in comfortable clothing.
We can change into photo outfits once you’re here.
3. Bring comfort items.
A lovey or familiar toy can help shy babies warm up quickly.
4. Arrive a few minutes early.
This gives your child time to explore the space and get comfortable.
Final Notes
My goal is to make your smash cake session fun, relaxed, and memorable — capturing all the sweet little reactions, messy moments, and big personality your baby has at this age. Every child responds differently, and that’s part of what makes these sessions so special!