Planning a cake smash should feel fun, simple and beautifully organised.
A cake smash session is such a joyful way to celebrate your baby turning one. This guide brings together our most helpful resources so you can plan the timing, styling, cake, outfits and finished keepsakes with confidence.
Whether you are planning before your baby’s first birthday, organising photos for party invitations, or simply wanting a fun milestone session, these guides will help you create a cake smash photography experience that feels playful, relaxed and meaningful.
When to book and how to prepare
These guides help you choose the right timing, prepare your baby and understand how the session works.
When to Book Cake Smash Photos
Learn the best time to book your baby’s first birthday session and when to photograph before the party.
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How to Prepare for Your Cake Smash
What to bring, how to choose the cake, what baby should wear and how to make the session easier.
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Cake Smash Photoshoot Ideas
Explore timeless first birthday photo ideas including portraits, cake smash images, family photos and detail shots.
Read guideFeel confident before you book
These guides help you understand pricing, value and what to look for when choosing your cake smash photographer.
Cake Smash Photography Pricing
Learn what affects cake smash pricing and how Photo Hive structures session fees and products.
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Choosing the Best Photographer
What to look for beyond price, including style, experience with babies and how the session feels.
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View Pricing
See session fees, digital collections, wall art and album options for Photo Hive sessions.
View pricingCake smash photography FAQs
When should we book?
Most families book their cake smash session before baby’s first birthday, especially if they want images ready for invitations or the birthday celebration.
Do we bring the cake?
You can bring your own cake for free, or we can organise a custom-made cake delivered to the studio from $99.
What if baby does not smash the cake?
That is completely normal. We still capture curiosity, expressions, portraits and playful moments, even if baby only tastes a little.