Newborn & Cake Smash Photographer in Birmingham and West Midlands
Cake Smash Photographer in Birmingham
Cake smash photography sessions
There’s no better way to celebrate your baby turning one than with a relaxed cake smash photoshoot. It’s a special milestone and a lovely way to capture your baby’s personality at this stage.
At Captured by Cheryl Photography, cake smash sessions are kept clean, simple and focused on your baby. Neutral backdrops, minimal props and soft tones ensure your little one remains the centre of attention.
Cakes are not provided. If you’d like a traditional cake smash, please bring your own cake. I also have a neutral fake cake available if you’d prefer a cleaner, portrait-led session with less mess.
You can choose to bring a small cake, or opt for an alternative such as a paint splash canvas or birthday newspaper if you’d prefer something less messy.
What to expect from your cake smash photoshoot
Cake smash sessions usually begin with sit and smile portraits, where your baby is photographed in their birthday outfit before the messy fun begins.
Your baby is encouraged to explore, play and enjoy themselves in a relaxed, supportive environment. Sessions often finish with a splash bath and bubbles, giving even more opportunity for joyful, expressive images.
A cake smash session in my Birmingham studio usually lasts around 60 minutes.
Sessions take place Sunday to Friday, with Sunday sessions available by request due to limited availability.
When should I book a cake smash session?
Cake smash sessions should be booked in advance to allow time to plan your setup. I recommend scheduling your session around two weeks before your baby’s first birthday, ensuring your images are ready in time to celebrate.
A non-refundable booking fee is required at the time of booking to secure your session date and time.
Preparing for your cake smash photoshoot
A selection of simple props is available, including:
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Bunting
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Nappy covers, tutus and rompers
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Cake stand and spoons
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Wooden letters and numbers
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Stools, chairs and a bathtub
Please bring your own clothing for casual portraits before the cake smash begins.
For the best experience, I kindly ask that no more than two adults accompany your child and that mobile phones are avoided as distractions during the session.
For hygiene reasons, all footwear is left at the entrance to the studio.
Cake smash photography pricing
Please note that cakes are not supplied as part of our cake smash sessions.
If you would like a traditional cake smash, parents will need to bring their own cake along to the photoshoot. This allows you to choose a cake that suits your baby’s dietary needs, preferences and any allergies. If you’d prefer a cleaner, less messy alternative, I also have a neutral fake cake available. This option is perfect if you’d like the look of a cake smash while keeping the focus on beautiful portraits rather than a face full of cake.
What to bring to your cake smash photoshoot
To help your session run smoothly, please remember to bring:
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A small cake (please avoid chocolate or cream)
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Dummy (if required)
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Nappies and wipes
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Milk and a drink (if required)
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Snacks
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Favourite toys or comfort items
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A towel
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A change of outfits
Please note: If you’re planning to bring a cake, let me know in advance. A cake stand and spoon can be provided.
What to wear for your cake smash session
Simple, timeless outfits work best for cake smash photography.
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Avoid strong patterns, logos or slogans, as these can be distracting in images
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Choose soft, neutral or complementary tones
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Bright colours can cast strong colour tones onto skin, which may appear unflattering in photographs
If you’re unsure what to dress your baby in, I’m always happy to offer guidance before your session.
If a traditional cake smash isn’t for you, there are plenty of alternative ways to celebrate your baby’s birthday. Some families choose a messy painting session, while others opt for a birthday newspaper, favourite toy, or a meaningful family item that reflects their little one’s personality.
These options are a lovely way to create unique, personal images while keeping the session relaxed and fun, and can be just as special as a cake smash.
Cake smash photography gallery
Browse a selection of cake smash photography captured at my Birmingham studio. From first birthday portraits to messy, playful moments, these images showcase fun, natural celebrations focused on your baby’s personality.
What Our Clients Are Saying
Ready to book your cake smash photoshoot?
If you’d love to celebrate your baby’s first birthday with a relaxed cake smash session, I’d be delighted to welcome you to my Birmingham studio. Sessions are kept simple, fun and focused on your baby’s personality. Take a look at my cake smash packages and pricing, then get in touch to secure your session date.