In my Canberra studio, I specialise in simple cake smash photography that celebrates your baby’s first birthday in a fun, yet timeless style. Sometimes, the little ones are not as enthusiastic about smashing a cake as I might hope. That’s perfectly okay, and it’s part of what makes each session uniquely heartwarming.

Take, for instance, a recent session where the birthday boy decided the cake wasn’t for him. Instead of diving into the frosting, he sought comfort in his mum’s arms, showing that sometimes, all a baby really wants is a cuddle. This turn of events doesn’t dampen the fun or the outcome of the photography session. Instead, it adds a beautiful layer of authenticity and emotion to the photos.

When the cake doesn’t pique interest, I always have a backup plan. For this little one, a warm, bubbly bath was the winner. The transition from a hesitant cake encounter to splashing joyfully in the water was seamless. Bath time not only cheered him up but also provided me with a chance to capture another aspect of his personality.

The soft, natural lighting and minimalistic setup help to keep the focus on the pure joy and innocence of your child. I use a simple colour palette and simple props to enhance the natural charm of the photos without overwhelming the senses.

In sessions like these, my goal is to adapt to the baby’s needs, ensuring they are comfortable and happy. It’s about making the experience enjoyable and capturing the spontaneous moments that often become the most cherished memories. Whether it’s a face full of cake or joyous splashes in the bath, these simple cake smash sessions are all about celebrating your baby’s big day in their own way.