First Birthday Pictures: Simple Portraits or Cake Smash- What is Right For You?
There’s nothing quite like your baby turning one, so celebrate with first birthday pictures and a cake smash to capture the milestone.
It’s a milestone that marks 12 full months of growth, snuggles, first steps, and countless memories. A first birthday photoshoot is more than just a photo session. It’s a celebration of everything your baby has become in their first year.
As a photographer who specializes in newborns, babies and families here in the Tri Cities, WA area, I often get asked: Should we do a cake smash or keep it simple with just portraits? Let’s break it down and help you decide what fits your family best. This will help capture perfect birthday images of your baby’s first year.
I recently had the honor of capturing Miss Madelyn’s first birthday with amazing pictures! She, her mom, and grandma, joined me in studio for a special session that grandma gifted to mom. Personally, I believe this is an amazing gift to parents! These photos from your baby’s first birthday will be cherished for many years to come. That is the gift that keeps giving. (This romper was purchased locally at Pipsqueaks– I love to support another local business and love this shop for unique finds!)
Why Book First Birthday Pictures?
1. You’ve made it through the first year.
Parenthood changes everything, and that first year is filled with challenges and joy. Booking a session is a beautiful way to celebrate your family’s journey and capture your baby’s growing personality. You can capture it in brilliant first birthday photos.
As a busy mom of 2 myself, let me tell you, the days are so, so long (and sometimes feel like they will never end). But the years truly are short. My son is going into second grade this fall and my baby starts Kindergarten. My baby is school age, which is mind-blowing as it has gone so quickly. And I am so glad I have pictures of their first birthdays! They love to sit down and look at their picture albums from when they were newborns, milestones, and their first birthdays.
2. Your baby is full of expressions – capture them all with a first birthday photoshoot!
Around 12 months, babies are curious, active, and expressive, which makes it the perfect time to freeze these fleeting moments in timeless portraits.
These adorable faces, smiles, cooing, and pure joy over something as simple as a ballon are the moments I live for. I know other parents do too. The best part of picking me as your baby photographer– I let your baby express who they are. I capture the first birthday pictures for you to savor forever.
Adorable Madelyn gave me all sorts of faces and personality in her first birthday pictures. And she LOVED the balloon to play with during her session here in studio located in Kennewick WA.
3. Professional photos beat cell phone snapshots.
While you likely have hundreds of photos on your phone (I know I have well over 10,000 pictures- just from my phone and this is my job), a professional first birthday session brings polished images. It offers intentional styling, proper lighting, and heirloom-quality results you’ll treasure for years with your baby’s first birthday pictures.
Should You Include a Cake Smash in Your First Birthday Pictures?
What Makes a Cake Smash So Fun for First Birthday Photos?
Cake smashes are fun, unpredictable, and full of personality! Some babies dive in, while others are more reserved—but either way, you get sweet, silly, and totally unique photos. I guide parents through every step with a detailed prep guide, so you’ll know exactly how to help your baby enjoy the experience.
Jojo Bear, as her family refers to her, had a simple boho-themed cake smash. It included a homemade cake by mom and the cutest bear cake topper to represent her nickname! I love personal touches that help make our photoshoots even more special and memorable.
Real Client Example: Jojo’s Cake Smash Pictures
Jojo was pure sunshine during her cake smash session. From start to finish, she was all smiles—curious, happy, and absolutely loving her moment in the spotlight. She made my job so easy until I had to narrow down the hundreds of pictures I took of her. It’s babies like Jojo who make me fall in love with these sessions again and again.
A Cake Smash Might Be Perfect If…
- You love a little messy fun and want playful, candid shots.
- You’re planning a party and want themed photos to match.
- You want a mix of clean portraits and a silly, sweet finale.
And a few more pictures of Jojo getting so into her cake! I mean how could you not love this?!?!
When to Keep It Classic With First Birthday Portraits
Classic Setup Ideas That Never Go Out of Style
Not every family loves the idea of a cake smash—and that’s okay. A classic portrait session can be just as meaningful. Neutral backdrops, soft natural light, simple props, and sweet outfits help keep the focus on your baby’s expressions and milestones.
Keep It Classic with First Birthday Portraits If..
- You prefer a cleaner, timeless look for wall art or albums.
- Your baby doesn’t enjoy new textures or messy situations.
What I Offer for First Birthday Picture Sessions
In my studio, located in Kennewick WA, I offer the flexibility to do both. We typically start with classic portraits set in neutral setups, with soft lighting, and outfits you choose or borrow from my client wardrobe. If you’d like to include a cake smash, we’ll finish the session with a simple, styled smash setup. This is based on your preferences, capturing memorable first birthday pictures.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, there’s no wrong way to document this special milestone. Whether you choose a cake smash, a classic portrait session, or both, the goal is to celebrate your baby and all the joy they’ve brought into your life. Let me help create something beautiful that tells your family’s story—messy cake fingers or not.
Ready to book your baby’s one-year session?
Spots fill quickly, so reach out early—especially if you’re hoping to display photos at their birthday party. I’d love to help you plan the perfect celebration for your little one with the best first birthday pictures.
Contact me today!
Serving Tri-Cities, WA – Kennewick, Richland, Pasco
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