Stress Free Tips from an Edmonton Cake Smash Photographer
When your baby is about to turn one, many parents start thinking about booking a cake smash photoshoot to celebrate and remember this special milestone. At the same time, it is very common to look at your baby and notice how easily tears still come, and wonder if your baby will do well during the session.
As an Edmonton cake smash photographer, I hear these concerns often. The good news is that most of this behaviour is completely normal, and with the right preparation and expectations, a cake smash session can be a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Why one year old babies may feel anxious during a cake smash photoshoot
To prepare your baby well, it helps to understand what is happening inside their brain at this age. Around eight months old, babies begin to recognize familiar faces and notice when someone is unfamiliar. They also develop a strong emotional bond with their main caregivers.
When a one year old arrives in a new environment or meets new people, their instinct is often to think, “I do not know you. I want my safe person.” Some babies adapt quickly and feel comfortable right away. Others need more time and extra reassurance from their parents. Neither response is right or wrong. Every baby is simply different.
Crying is one of the only ways babies can express and process big emotions. This is why I always encourage parents to be prepared for some tears at the beginning of a cake smash photoshoot. Some babies even cry when a new toy appears. Setting realistic expectations can make the entire experience feel much calmer and more enjoyable.
Help your baby feel comfortable before a cake smash session
The good news is that gentle practice can help your baby feel more comfortable with new environments and unfamiliar faces. I often suggest that parents bring their baby to everyday places like grocery stores, community recreation centres, or libraries whenever possible. These places offer new sights, sounds, and people in a low pressure setting.
With repeated exposure, babies gradually learn how it feels to experience new emotions and surroundings. This kind of practice often helps babies adjust more easily during a cake smash session.
Reschedule the session if needed
Some babies may still find new environments overwhelming even with practice. If you notice that your baby becomes extremely upset and cannot settle at all in new places, it may be best to consider rescheduling the session.
I once photographed a baby whose family I knew very well. I had photographed this baby several times during their first year, so they were familiar with me. On the cake smash day, however, the baby could not stop crying and became more distressed despite all our efforts. In the end, we decided to reschedule the session.
There was nothing wrong with this baby. Just like adults, some people are shy, some are outgoing, some are cautious, and some adapt quickly. There is no good or bad personality. Our role as adults is to provide an environment that makes sense for each child.
When we tried again two weeks later, the baby was still a bit shy, but much calmer and more comfortable than before.
Choose the best time of day for your cake smash photoshoot
As a cake smash photographer, I only book one session per day. This allows me to work around your baby’s happiest time of day. Some babies are happiest in the morning, while others do better in the afternoon, just like adults.
After a good nap, babies are usually more relaxed, responsive, and willing to participate. Scheduling the cake smash photoshoot during your baby’s usual happy hours can make the entire experience much smoother. Unfortunately, there is no real solution for a very tired baby, so timing truly matters.
Helping your baby feel comfortable with the cake
As adults, we see cake and immediately understand that it is meant to be eaten. Babies do not have that experience. If your baby has never touched frosting or tasted cake before, they may feel confused or unsure. Some babies look to their parents for reassurance, while others may cry.
If you hope your baby will enjoy interacting with the cake, I often recommend letting them touch and taste cake before the session. Even a small cupcake at home can help them become familiar with the texture. At first, your baby may show little interest, but after a few exposures over several days, many babies become more curious and engaged.
Some parents prefer to save this experience for the actual cake smash session, and that is completely fine as well. In this case, it is important to set expectations and welcome any reaction your baby may have. Showing little interest, crying, or carefully touching the cake are all very normal for one year old babies.
During every cake smash photoshoot, I gently guide and support babies through this process. Even when reactions are subtle, we can still create beautiful and meaningful images. Parents simply need to trust the process.
Parents should also be prepared during a cake smash session
Even though this is your baby’s cake smash, you are often the person they need the most. Your baby may reach out to be held at any moment, even when they are covered in frosting or cream.
Your presence helps your baby feel safe and supported. I always encourage parents to wear something they do not mind getting messy and to bring an extra outfit for the drive home. This allows you to focus fully on comforting your baby without worrying about your clothes.
When your baby knows you are nearby and emotionally available, it helps them feel secure in an unfamiliar environment.
Conclusion
Preparing your baby for a cake smash photoshoot does not mean making them perform or behave a certain way. It simply means understanding their age, their emotions, and their limits. One year old babies are still learning how to process new environments, new people, and new experiences, and every reaction they show is completely normal.
With the right timing, gentle preparation, and realistic expectations, a cake smash session can be a relaxed and joyful experience for both parents and babies. Even when tears or hesitation happen, meaningful and beautiful images are still possible.
As an Edmonton cake smash photographer, my approach is always baby led and pressure free. I believe the best photos come from creating a safe space where your baby feels supported and understood. If you are planning a first birthday cake smash and have questions or concerns, I am always happy to help guide you through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my baby cries during a cake smash session
Crying is very common at this age and does not mean the session has failed. Babies often need time to warm up, and I allow plenty of flexibility and comfort breaks during each session.
What age is best for a cake smash photoshoot
Most cake smash sessions take place between eleven and thirteen months, depending on your baby’s development and comfort level.
Do parents stay during the cake smash photoshoot
Yes, parents are always nearby. Your presence helps your baby feel safe and supported in a new environment.
Do babies need to eat the cake
Not at all. Some babies smash enthusiastically, while others explore gently or simply observe. All reactions are completely normal.
Samantha, the visionary behind Little One Photography, is a passionate photographer with a special gift for capturing the essence of newborns and families. As an awarded newborn photographer, she has honed her craft to create timeless, emotive portraits that families cherish for generations. Samantha’s warm personality and patient approach put even the tiniest clients at ease, allowing her to capture genuine moments of connection and love.
