The Moment Everything Changed
She just sat there, staring at the cake.
Her little brow furrowed, her hands in her lap. You could almost see her thinking, “What exactly am I supposed to do with this?”
Her parents were laughing softly, gently cheering her on. And we all just… waited.
Then her older siblings sat down beside her. They grabbed a little frosting themselves, took a bite, made it look like the most fun thing in the world.
And just like that, she was in.
Within minutes, frosting was on her hands, her face, and somehow her little toes. The soft green and pink theme – daisies, balloons, fringe backdrop, and her sweet personalized banner – made the whole thing feel like it was made just for her. Because it was.
We ended with a splash session in a tiny white tub. By that point, she was all smiles, splashing away, completely in her element.
It felt less like a photoshoot and more like a memory her family will talk about for years.
That’s exactly what a cake smash session is supposed to feel like.
If you’re planning a first birthday session, many families love to turn it into a full day by going out to eat afterward. Here are a few great Newport Beach and Costa Mesa spots to celebrate:
Plums Cafe & Catering
https://plumscafeandcatering.com
The Crack Shack
https://www.crackshack.com
Bear Flag Fish Co.
https://www.bearflagfishco.com
Why First Birthday Cake Smash Sessions Deserve Extra Planning
Here’s what I hear a lot: “We’ll just book her session right on her birthday!”
And I totally get it. It feels right to mark the actual day.
But here’s the thing… a little planning ahead makes a huge difference in how relaxed, personal, and beautiful the whole experience is.
Custom setups – the colors, the props, the cake coordination, the styling – those things take time to pull together well. And you deserve something that actually reflects your baby, not a last-minute scramble.
This is something I walk every family through, and the results are always worth it.
When to Book a Cake Smash Session (Best Age and Timing Tips)
The sweet spot is 10 to 11 months old
Most families assume the session should happen right at the one-year mark. But I actually recommend booking when your baby is closer to 10 or 11 months.
Here’s why:
Babies at this age are usually sitting confidently, and sometimes even pulling up to stand
They’re expressive, curious, and more interactive – which makes for the best expressions
You’ll have your photos back before the birthday, which is perfect for invitations, party decor, or sharing online
Book 1 to 2 months in advance
Custom setups take planning. Colors, props, balloons, cake, backdrop, styling – it all needs to come together intentionally. Booking early means we have the space to design something that truly feels like your baby.
Morning sessions are best
Babies are happiest in the morning, especially after a nap and a little snack. This one small detail makes a bigger difference than most people realize.
Cake Smash Session Tips Every Parent Should Know Before the Session
1. Don’t stress if they don’t “smash” right away
Some babies dive straight in. Others sit and observe for a while. Both are completely normal – and honestly, those slower, curious moments are just as sweet to photograph.
2. Bring a familiar snack or treat
Sometimes a few puffs or a piece of fruit helps them warm up to the idea of eating during the session. It’s a small thing that can totally shift the energy.
3. Choose outfits with movement in mind
Soft fabrics, simple patterns, and outfits your baby can actually sit and wiggle in are always the best choice. Comfort over everything.
If you’re still looking for outfit inspiration or pieces for your baby (or coordinating family outfits), these shops are great options:
Nordstrom
https://www.nordstrom.com
4. Lean into the mess
This is genuinely one of the only times where messy equals perfect. Frosting on their cheeks and hands? That’s the story. Embrace it.
5. Plan for a splash session at the end
It’s practical (clean baby!) and it’s also where some of the biggest smiles happen. If you can include it, do.
6. Keep expectations flexible
Every baby is different. Some laugh the whole way through. Some are more thoughtful and observant. My job is to meet them exactly where they are and capture who they actually are – not who we hoped they’d be that day.
Why Cake Smash Photography Matters for Your Baby’s First Birthday
A first birthday only happens once.
And I know that sounds obvious… but it’s easy to get caught up in the party planning, the guest list, the cake flavor, and forget to actually preserve the moment.
Years from now, you’re not going to remember every detail of the decorations. But you are going to want to see your baby’s face in that moment – the hesitation, the first taste, the pure joy that followed.
That’s what we’re really doing here. Not just photographing a smash cake. We’re capturing a personality, a season, a tiny human who is growing up faster than you can believe.
And when those photos are printed and on your wall, you’ll be so glad you did it.
Many families choose Gilmore Studios for cake smash sessions because the experience is fully guided—from custom themes to styling and making the entire session feel easy and enjoyable.
https://gilmorestudios.com
For photographers who want to learn how to create profitable and elevated cake smash sessions, you can explore Photographers Roadmap here:
https://photographersroadmap.com
Ready to Plan Your Baby’s First Birthday Cake Smash Session in Newport Beach?
If your little one is coming up on their first birthday, now is a great time to start thinking about the details.
I’d love to help you create something that feels personal, fun, and completely stress-free.
Reach out here and let’s start planning. I’ll take care of the rest.
Because the frosting-on-the-toes moment? That one’s worth every bit of it.
