Can you believe your little baby is almost one year old already? Where did the time go? As a Long Island baby photographer specializing in baby and family portraits, I completely understand how bittersweet this first birthday celebration feels for parents. On one hand, you’re overjoyed at all the amazing milestones and growth…but you’re also wistfully clinging to those newborn memories that seem like just yesterday.
This is precisely why cake smash photography sessions have become such a beloved tradition among modern families. Not only does it mark your baby’s first year in the most festive, joyful way, but it also creates lasting baby portraits you’ll treasure lifelong. Those classic shots of your newly-turned-one digging into their very first cake! It’s a rite of passage captured in all its adorable, sticky sweetness.
The Best Timeline for Long Island Cake Smash Photography
So when’s the ideal time to schedule this special celebration on Long Island? I’d be sure to reach out at least 2-3 months prior to your baby turning 1 to book their session as we would like to aim to do their session about 3-4 weeks before their birthday. This allows for a bit of flexibility to account for unexpected surprises, holidays, or just a conveniently open weekend on the calendar.
By having your baby photo session 3 to 4 weeks in advance, you’ll also have those beautiful cake smash portraits ready to display and share with loved ones right on the baby’s big day. Can you imagine any better way to kick off the party and commemorate this major milestone?
Planning Your Baby’s Cake Smash Event
Once you’ve settled on an approximate date for your Long Island cake smash session, it’s time for the truly fun part – bringing your unique vision to life! As a professional baby photographer, I absolutely love collaborating with families to design a styled scene that perfectly suits their little one’s personality and interests.
Families can choose to do a simpler, timeless setup where the main focus is on their baby, or we can choose more of a theme or elaborated setup surrounded by pretty florals, balloons, and textures.
I do offer a complimentary 7″ naked cake for your baby’s session, but if you wanted a more elaborate cake, you would be responsible for bringing one. However, I can connect you with a wonderful cake artist who can help you bring your vision to life.
Preparing for the Sweetest Memories
Of course, babies can be very unpredictable! That’s why cake smash sessions require a bit of flexibility and preparation on both ends. I always advise clients to:
- Avoid heavy meals before the session
- Bring spare outfits/diapers for cleanup
- Pack their favorite toys to help comfort baby if needed
- Ensure proper rest so baby is alert and happy
- Bring their favorite small snacks that we can put on the back of the cake if need be
On my end, you can count on me to create a stress-free, judgment-free environment tailored to your child’s needs. I’ll tend them through the experience at their own pace, following their cues. With some expert styling, playful prompting, and maybe a few silly voices/props, you’d be amazed at the organic smiles and pure joy we can capture!
No Detail Too Small for Cake Smash Photography
The bottom line? Your Long Island cake smash portraits will be treated with the same heart, creativity, and attention to detail I pour into every single session and gallery. Because for families, these are far more than just photos – they’re a vibrant snapshot of an extraordinary time that you’ll hold close to your heart forever.
So if your little Long Island bambino is approaching that first birthday in the coming months, I’d love to help with personalized cake smash photography in Long Island today. What better gift for both baby and parents than a day full of smiles, silliness, and messy but cherished memories?