March 29, 2021
Photography
· Tips & Technique
Why I Believe Every Baby Deserves a 1st Birthday Cake Smash – From One Mum to Another
I’ll be honest – before becoming a mum, I knew how special first birthdays were. But it wasn’t until I held my own baby girl on the eve of her turning one that I truly understood it. The emotions hit me all at once – the joy, the disbelief at how fast the year had gone, and the deep, deep love that only grows stronger with every day.
That’s why 1st Birthday Cake Smash sessions have such a special place in my heart – not just as a photographer, but as a mum who gets it.
My Style: Simple, Natural, and All About Your Baby
You might have seen big, bold cake smashes with colourful backdrops and themed props. That’s lovely for some – but it’s not my style.
For me, the focus should always be on your baby. I create a soft, clean, white setup with natural light and minimal styling – just enough to frame the moment without ever distracting from what matters most: those sweet eyes, cheeky smiles, and tiny icing-covered fingers.
We’ll use simple props like wooden toys, soft teddies, and maybe a few white balloons – nothing that takes the spotlight off your little one’s natural beauty and personality.
Smash… Then Splash!
After baby has had their fun diving into the cake (and making the most glorious mess), we finish with a warm bubble bath – what I like to call the splash part of the session.
This is where the magic continues – happy splashes, big smiles, and a relaxed, content baby. It’s also a practical bonus – you’ll leave with a clean little one and even more beautiful moments captured!
Why This Means So Much
As a mum, I know how fast these days fly. You blink, and they’ve outgrown their first sleepsuit, started pointing at things, and suddenly they’re turning one.
That’s why I pour so much heart into every cake smash session – because I know these photos will mean the world to you. Not just now, but years from now when you’re flipping through their baby album or telling them stories about their first ever birthday.
It’s not just a photoshoot – it’s an experience, a celebration, and a keepsake of one of life’s most precious milestones.
Let’s Capture This Together
If you’re looking for a relaxed, baby-led, joy-filled way to mark your little one’s first birthday, I’d love to help you celebrate.
Let’s make memories you’ll never forget – cake-covered fingers, bubbly giggles, and all the little details that make your baby your baby.
From one mum to another – you won’t regret it 💕
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@oanamariaphotography
Because they grow too fast and we want to remember them in every stage exactly as they are.
Pure & Unique
© by Oana Maria Photography