1- When to Book Your Photographer

Something to keep in mind is that your photographer might be booked out a month or more, especially if it’s ” busy season” which is the last couple months of the year. Think about what you need the photos for. Do you need them for invitations? Do you need them for party decorations? Make sure you book your photographer in time and will have the photos in time for any of these needs.

2- Practice!

I know it might sound like a silly thing to do, but trust me it can help you and your baby prepare for the cake smash. It’ll trouble shoot any problems like allergies or texture issues. Remember that your baby is only 1, and can be shy of exploring a new texture or taste. Especially surrounded by adults making funny noise and clapping. I suggest have a trial run before the session, with a cupcake. Get a cupcake with icing on the top (preferably the same color the cake will be), and sit on the floor with your little one. You can even have a cupcake too! If a few seconds after touching it they absolutely loose it, try again in a few minutes but this time with a spoon  (sticky hands can be a deal breaker sometimes). If that’s the case try to find a small wooden spoon for them to use or one that matches your cake smash colors. Some babies are just a little cautious at first and this introduces them, and at the cake smash they really tear the cake apart-just depends on the baby 🙂

3- How to Pick Your Cake…

Colors: Pink, white, yellow, and light blue or green photograph well and will match most backdrops. Avoid chocolate, and dark colors like red and deep blue. They don’t photograph as well and can stain baby’s skin and clothes! Well and let’s be honest red icing tend to look like carnage.

Cake: Go with whipped or butter cream frostings so it’s easy for little fingers to get into. Avoid fondant- it’s tough to break. Take it out a little while before the session so it’ll be room temperature.

Size: What size should a cake smash be? I recommend a 2 layer 6″ rounds. Sometimes you can even check grocery stores like Safeway or Whole foods and they have perfect ready-made options.

4- Tub splash!

This is something I recommend doing for all my clients! Not only is it an adorable and easy way to clean up your baby after the cake mess, but a lot of times the best part of the whole session! Trust me, most babies LOVE splashing in the bath! Make sure you bring a towel for after the splash.

5-What to bring with you
Most likely your photographer will have things to help clean up like wipes, and paper towels. Remember to bring a change of clothes and a towel for your baby, plus a change of clothes for you! You may have to run after your cake cover little one and you’ll get it all over you. So a spare change of clothes can be a lifesaver so you don’t have to ride home covered in frosting.

• Baby wipes
• Paper Towels
• Change of clothes
• Cute Spoon
• Snacks

6-Expectations
I’m sure you’ll get adorable photos you will treasure forever-especially if you follow these prep tips for your cake smash. Just remember that your baby is still figuring the world out and may not act super smiley or how you envisioned. Give everyone a little bit of grace and enjoy all the fun!