I think parents sometimes worry when booking a first birthday photoshoot "what if my baby hates it?". And even though you might not be sure how baby will react, the cake smash session is the perfect option for babies on their first birthday.

Why? Because it's flexible! There's three stages- the portrait, the smash and the splash. Baby might enjoy one part more than the other, they might enjoy the entire thing, but all those natural reactions are who they are right now!

The portrait- this is where we get to know each other. We play silly games. We make funny noises. We listen to favourite songs. The toys are out (aesthetically pleasing ones of course!). Fun with balloons. You're close to your child so they feel secure.

The smash- we get messy! It's treat time! Babies are often unsure about the cake- after all it doesn't look a lot like the food they normally get for breakfast and lunch, but I guarantee this is delicious, freshly baked by The Cakery! Often, they love it, the texture and the taste and they dive right in! Now and again, they're unsure- but that's ok! I personally think shots of them overwhelmed by a cake are perfection- unique expressions you'll treasure forever! We can use familiar treats to encourage them, or if they really aren't in to it, guess what? You get to take the cake home and you can enjoy it so who's the real winner?

The Splash- most babies tend to love bath time, splashing the water, enjoying the bubbles and at the same time getting clean to go home!