What To Expect At Your Cake Smash Session from a Cake Smash Photographer in East Yorkshire

What to Expect at a Cake Smash Session with a Cake Smash Photographer in East Yorkshire

As a cake smash photographer in East Yorkshire, I absolutely love capturing the joy, curiosity, and occasional messiness that comes with these special first birthday sessions. A cake smash is a fun and memorable way to celebrate your baby's big milestone—and it’s one of the most popular shoots I do here in the studio.

Whether it’s your first experience or you’re just curious about what’s involved, I want you to feel completely at ease from start to finish. Every session is designed to be relaxed, playful, and tailored to your little one’s personality. From choosing the perfect backdrop to helping you plan the cake and outfits, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly what to expect during a cake smash session—from preparation tips to the final photos—so you can feel confident, excited, and ready to enjoy the moment.

1. Before the Session: How to Prepare

So, your baby is almost one… how did that happen?! It’s incredible how quickly that first year goes by—your tiny newborn has grown into a curious, cheeky little explorer, and their first birthday is such a special milestone to celebrate.

As a cake smash photographer in East Yorkshire, based at Bluebell and Lace Photography in North Ferriby near Hull, I absolutely love planning and photographing these sessions for 1st and even 2nd birthdays. Every shoot is a chance to celebrate your baby’s unique personality and capture memories you’ll treasure forever.

What’s Included in the Session

All of my cake smash sessions include a professionally made cake and styled decorations in your chosen colour scheme, lovingly created by my fabulous cake maker, Nicola from Cake Topper Creator. From soft pastels to bright, bold themes, we’ll work together to create a look that’s just right for your little one.

Preparing for the Big Day

Here are a few simple tips to help you get the most from your session:

• Let your baby try cake beforehand to get used to the taste and texture.

• Discuss any food or skin allergies with me when you book.

• Schedule the session around nap time for a happy, well-rested baby.

• Bring a tippy cup, favourite snack, and comfort toy.

• Try some messy play at home to get your baby used to new textures.

• Pack a change of clothes and a towel for after the splash session.

No two babies are the same—and that’s what makes these sessions so much fun! With over 18 years of experience (and four children of my own), I always follow your baby’s lead and use gentle, tried-and-tested ways to help them enjoy the experience.

2. What Happens During the Session?

When you arrive at the studio, everything will be ready and waiting—cake, decorations, and a calm, welcoming space where your little one can feel safe and relaxed.

A Session Led by Your Baby

Some babies love getting stuck in right away, while others take their time. That’s absolutely fine! I’m here to make the experience as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. I often sing songs (you’ve been warned about my voice!) and use gentle encouragement to get those lovely expressions we’re after.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:

1. Family Photos: We begin with relaxed family portraits—perfect for marking the occasion together.

2. Portraits of Your Baby: I’ll photograph your little one in a special outfit before the cake comes out.

3. Cake Smash Time: You’ll change your baby into their cake smash outfit while I set up the cake. Then the fun begins!

4. Splash Session: A warm bubbly bath in the cake smash tub helps clean up—and gives us more adorable photo moments.

5. Wrap Up: We dry off your little one in a soft towel and get them dressed for home—plus, you get to take the leftover cake!

3. Cakes, Colours & Themes – All Taken Care Of

One of the best parts? The cake is included in your session fee, so there’s nothing extra for you to arrange.

I work closely with the lovely Nicola at Cake Topper Creator, who designs beautiful, baby-friendly cakes to perfectly match your chosen colours or theme. Her cakes are soft, safe, and look amazing in photos—making your session look as polished as it is fun.

So Many Sets to Choose From

I have a wide variety of sets and themes in the studio—from delicate florals and soft pastels to bright colours, teddy bears, woodland scenes, and more. I’ll guide you through all the options and help you choose one that fits your vision. Once we’ve chosen the look, I’ll order the matching cake to bring everything together.

If you’d like to include a special outfit or keepsake item, just let me know—we’ll work it into the session beautifully.

4. After the Smash: Clean-Up & Photo Viewing

Once your baby has finished smashing and splashing, I’ll gently dry them off and help you get them ready to head home. This is often the moment when parents breathe a sigh of happy relief—it’s been a busy, joyful hour, and now it’s time to put your feet up (with leftover cake, of course!).

Your Photo Viewing Appointment

A few days later, I’ll invite you back to the studio for your photo viewing session. This is where you get to see your edited images for the first time—something I know many parents look forward to! You’ll be able to choose your favourite photographs and select from one of my carefully designed packages, which are all detailed in my brochures and on my website.

There’s no pressure—just a relaxed environment to make the right decision for you and your family.

5. Why Choose a Professional Cake Smash Photographer in East Yorkshire?

Capturing your baby’s first birthday is about more than just a few cute pictures—it’s about freezing time during a fleeting, joyful chapter of your family’s life.

At Bluebell and Lace Photography, I bring:

• Over 18 years of experience with babies and children

• A fully equipped studio in North Ferriby, just outside Hull

• An inclusive service with coordinated sets and custom cakes

• A warm, gentle, baby-led approach that puts little ones at ease

• A range of beautiful products so you can display your memories with pride

I genuinely love what I do, and I’d be honoured to help you celebrate your little one with a fun, stress-free experience and a gallery of timeless, joyful images.

📩 Ready to Book Your Cake Smash Session?

If you’d love to celebrate your baby’s first birthday with a fun, relaxed, and beautifully styled session, I’d be honoured to help you capture those memories.

📧 Get in touch at contact@bluebellandlacephotography.co.uk🌐 Learn more about my cake smash sessions on my website (insert your actual link)

Let’s make their first birthday one to remember—with cake, bubbles, and plenty of smiles!