Newport Beach, CA & Gilbert, AZ • Sessions by appointment only

One in a Melon – Watermelon Birthday Cake Smash | Newport Beach Photographer

There’s something so sweet about watching a one-year-old dive into their first birthday cake… especially when it’s part of a “One in a Melon” themed cake smash! This playful, fruit-inspired setup is bursting with bright colors, juicy details, and summertime charm — perfect for a milestone session like One in a Melon – Watermelon Birthday Cake Smash | Newport Beach Photographer in sunny Newport Beach, California.

Whether you’re planning a summer birthday or just love the cheerful watermelon aesthetic, this theme is a crowd favorite for a reason. It photographs beautifully, feels fun and festive, and lets your little one shine in a setup as sweet as they are.

white cake, 1st birthday vanilla cake, watermelon theme, watermelon birthday party, one in a melon first birthday theme, baby photographer, cake smash photographer, girls cake smash theme ideas, green and pink balloons, party hat, mint green dress, wooden spoon

Why a Watermelon Cake Smash?

The “One in a Melon” theme is popular because it strikes the perfect balance between cute, colorful, and classic. It’s:

  • Gender-neutral and adaptable
  • Fresh and bright — great for summer babies
  • Easy to personalize with custom props, outfits, and cake designs
  • Perfect for both indoor or outdoor cake smash sessions

Watermelon is a fruit most babies love, and the vibrant reds, greens, and pinks add so much energy to your photos. Plus, the puns? Adorable.

What We Loved About This Newport Beach Cake Smash

This session was filled with:

  • A bright green and pink balloon garland
  • Watermelon-inspired cake with “One in a Melon” topper
  • Summer props like fruit crates, picnic blankets, and greenery
  • An outfit change mid-session (because, let’s be honest — cake gets everywhere!)

And of course, the star of the day had a blast smashing, squishing, and taste-testing every bite. If you’re thinking about doing a watermelon theme, we highly recommend choosing lightweight, breathable outfits and keeping wipes and backup clothes nearby. (Trust us on this one!)

Tips for a Successful Watermelon Cake Smash

🍉 Pick the Right Time
Plan the session for when your baby is well-rested and fed (but not too full). Right after naptime with a small snack is usually perfect.

🍉 Keep it Simple
A few well-placed props go a long way. Focus on the baby, not the clutter.

🍉 Choose a Smash-Friendly Cake
We skip the fondant and go for soft, buttercream frosting. It’s easier for little hands to squish and way more fun!

🍉 Outfit Inspo
Look for watermelon-themed rompers, bloomers, or dresses! Here are a few adorable options:

🍉 Don’t Rush It
Give your baby time to explore and get messy. Some kids dive right in while others take a minute!

Make a Day of It in Newport Beach 🍦

If you’re planning your session in Newport Beach, you might want to turn it into a family outing! Here are a few fun places nearby to enjoy after your photo session:

Why This Session Matters

Your baby only turns ONE once. This is such a special milestone — the end of babyhood and the start of toddler life. A themed cake smash like this is more than a photoshoot. It’s a celebration of growth, laughter, and all the sweet moments you’ve shared in year one.

These photos will bring smiles for decades — framed on walls, shared with grandparents, and one day, shown at a graduation or wedding. 💗

Ready to Book Your Watermelon Cake Smash?

If you’re dreaming of a cheerful, custom cake smash session for your baby, let’s make it happen! At Gilmore Studios, we specialize in stress-free, creative milestone photography that’s as fun as it is meaningful.

📸 Visit www.gilmorestudios.com to inquire or book your session.
Let’s create something one in a melon together!

Meet the Gilmores:

Gilmore Studios serves Orange County, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. We specialize in wedding photography, family portraits, newborn and branding photography. Our studio has been in business since 2002.

Fun Facts:

PLace we call home:

Newport Beach & Queen Creek

Number of kids:

3 boys

Years in business:

Since 2002

As seen in:

Cake Smash

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Six looks so good on her 🎈

We kept this session simple and sweet with a soft pink backdrop and balloons to match her fun personality. Then we brought the whole family in on the white backdrop, even their adorable pup.

I love sessions like this because they show how much personality shines through when the focus stays on your child and the people they love most.

#BirthdayPhotography #GilmoreStudios #NewportBeachPhotographer #FamilyPhotographyOC #MilestoneSession #OCPhotographer #StudioPortraits #ChildPhotography #BirthdayPhotoshoot
Every one year old is different. Some dive right in, some take their time, and some are not quite sure what to think at first. That is what makes these sessions so fun. You never know what you are going to get.

I love seeing their personalities shine through, especially when parents join in for a few photos at the beginning. It is such a sweet way to celebrate the first year and capture all the joy that comes with it.

#CakeSmashPhotography #FirstBirthdaySession #GilmoreStudios #NewportBeachPhotographer #OCBabyPhotographer #MilestoneSession #OneYearOldPhotos #BirthdayPhotography #FamilyPhotographyOC
I loved seeing this sweet couple again and their little dog. This year we did the session at  the San Juan Capistrano Mission.

It is such a good reminder to make photos part of your yearly routine. Life changes quickly, and having a collection of portraits over the years tells your story in the best way.

#FamilyPhotography #GilmoreStudios #SanJuanCapistranoMission #OCPhotographer #NewportBeachPhotographer #HolidayPhotos #CouplePhotography #PetPhotography #AnnualFamilyPhotos 
#missionsjc
The colors are soft, the light is golden, and it is the perfect spot for families to relax and be themselves. This crew made it easy with so many laughs, hugs, and those little moments that remind me why I love photographing families.

Tip: The best time for fall photos is right before sunset when the light turns warm and glowy.
 
#FamilyPhotographyOC #BackBayFamilySession #NewportBeachPhotographer #GilmoreStudios #OCFamilyPhotographer #FallFamilyPhotos #OrangeCountyPhotographer

Newport Beach, CA & Gilbert, AZ

Session by appointment only

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