What exactly is a cake smash?

If you’ve done any exploration into baby photography before, then the chances are that you might be aware of a term that has been doing the rounds for a few years now. I am of course talking about a ‘cake smash’. The cake smash has become increasingly popular in recent years, and I thought it might be wise for me to explain exactly what the term means.

The explanation is in the name...

If you’re confused by this term, don’t be. A cake smash is exactly what it sounds like: the smashing up of a cake. A cake smash has become an ideal way to mark a baby’s first birthday, and get some pretty incredible portraits at the same time. The premise is simple, make or purchase a cake, and give it to your pride and joy to do whatever they like with it. A professional photographer will then be able to take some great shots as your child interacts with the icing and the cake!

Why do a cake smash?

I think one of the reasons why a cake smash has become such a popular way to mark a child’s birthday is that it’s a little bit different. It’s a world away from your child posing in smart clothes in front of a white background. A cake smash is out of the ordinary, and consequently is likely to be a great memory.

I often talk about how important it is to allow a child free reign during a photography shoot, and a cake smash is one of the best ways to do that. Almost all children love cake, so by providing one in the shot you’re providing a prop that is likely to instantly captivate them. Furthermore, because children love cake so much, a photographer is likely to be able to get some really fantastic natural shots of the child interacting with the cake.

The fact that a cake is involved also makes it clear that a celebration is taking place, which is a great way to showcase the fact that the photographs of this event are in fact celebrating a the First Birthday milestone. A lot of my clients plan the smash (and sometime splash) about 2 weeks prior to the actual birthday as they can then use them as invites for a party or just plainly use them to share the wonderful milestone with family and friends.

What should a child wear?

Clothes that you don’t mind them getting icing on! As you can imagine, a cake smash is a pretty messy activity. Often a baby in just a nappy & vest looks the best as there are no clothes to hide the colossal amounts of icing all over them! It’s a good idea to bring some spare clothes too as there’s a good chance that the first set of clothes will be in a fit state at the conclusion of the shoot. With that in mind too, it’s best to bring a carrier bag to carry home the iced up clothing.

Cake smashes remain great ways to ensure that a child’s birthday is celebrated and commemorated, and when you look back on the photographs there will be absolute no doubt that a celebration took place.

What is included in my packages?

I have a studio in Warman, just outside of Saskatoon, where I setup for the session prior to your arrival in accordance to the theme we will pre-arrange. I have a variety of backdrop options, but can also do custom balloon arches and themes if you are looking for something different or specific. I also have a client wardrobe available and on order can supply the cake (a fee may apply depending of the package you select).

So basically I offer a full 'Smash and Splash' (more about that below) service where I provide the themed setup, outfit and cake so you just need to bring your baby to get amazing portraits to cherish for a lifetime!

What is a Smash and "Splash", also known as a milk bath?

A milk bath is a portrait session where a baby is photographed in a tub filled with warm water, mixed with milk. The milk bath is often styled with props like flowers, fruit, or greenery. 

Why it's popular

• Milk bath photoshoots are a fun combination with a cake smash, aka a "smash and splash". 
• They're a great way to capture a baby's chubby cheeks and inquisitive side. 
• Babies tend to be relaxed and excited in water, which makes beautiful and exciting portraits!

What to expect

• You can expect to end up with a gallery of adorable photos. 
• You can expect to have a fun experience with beautiful memories for both you and your child.