Your baby’s first birthday is a huge milestone – and cake smash photography has become one of the most popular ways to capture it. If you’re wondering what cake smash photography actually is and how much it costs, you’re not alone. These are two of the most common questions parents ask before booking a first birthday photoshoot.
In this guide, I’ll explain exactly what a cake smash session involves, what to expect on the day, and how much cake smash photography typically costs – so you can decide whether it’s right for your little one.
What Is Cake Smash Photography?
Cake smash photography is a first birthday photoshoot designed to celebrate your baby turning one. The session usually centres around your little one exploring, tasting and (often!) smashing a cake, while a professional photographer captures natural, joyful moments along the way.
Sessions are relaxed, baby-led and focused on personality – whether your child dives straight into the cake or prefers to take things slowly.
Cake smash sessions are popular because they:
Celebrate a once-in-a-lifetime milestone
Capture genuine expressions and reactions
Create timeless keepsakes for families
Can be fully personalised with colours, themes and styling
Many parents choose cake smash photography as an alternative to traditional studio portraits, or combine both for a more complete first birthday gallery.
What Happens During a Cake Smash Photoshoot?
Most professional cake smash photography sessions are carefully structured to make babies feel comfortable while still getting a wide variety of images.
A typical session includes:
1. Portraits Before the Cake
The session usually starts with clean, simple portraits while your baby is settled and curious. This is perfect for capturing beautiful expressions before things get messy.
2. The Cake Smash
Next comes the cake! Babies are placed with their cake and allowed to explore it at their own pace. Some dive straight in, others need a little encouragement – both make for gorgeous photos.
3. Splash or Clean-Up Time
Many photographers finish with a small splash session or bath. This helps clean up and gives another opportunity for playful, happy images.
Sessions are designed to be calm, flexible and led entirely by your baby.
How Much Does Cake Smash Photography Cost?
One of the biggest questions parents ask is: how much does cake smash photography cost?
Prices vary depending on experience, location and what’s included, but professionally, cake smash photography in the UK typically costs between £150 and £600+.
What Affects the Price?
Cake smash photography pricing usually depends on:
Photographer’s experience and reputation
Length of the session
Number of images included
Printed products or digital files
Props, styling and set-up
Whether a bespoke cake is included
Typical Cake Smash Photography Prices
Here’s a general breakdown of what parents can expect:
Basic cake smash sessions: £150–£250
Usually includes the photoshoot and a small number of digital images.
Mid-range collections: £300–£450
Often includes more images, prints, albums and personalised styling.
Premium collections: £500–£650+
Usually includes all edited images, luxury printed products and keepsake displays.
Many photographers allow parents to choose their images after the session, so you only invest in what you love.
Is Cake Smash Photography Worth the Cost?
For many families, cake smash photography is absolutely worth it.
You’re not just paying for photos – you’re investing in:
Professional lighting and editing
A safe, baby-friendly studio environment
Carefully styled setups and props
High-quality printed keepsakes
A stress-free experience
Most importantly, you’re preserving memories of a milestone that passes in the blink of an eye.
When Should You Book a Cake Smash Session?
Cake smash photography is usually booked when babies are 10–11 months old, with the session taking place shortly before their first birthday. This allows enough time for editing, viewing appointments and ordering prints before birthday celebrations.
Popular photographers often book up months in advance, so early booking is always recommended.
Final Thoughts: What Is Cake Smash Photography & How Much Does It Cost?
Cake smash photography is a fun, meaningful way to celebrate your baby’s first birthday while creating lasting memories. While costs vary, most parents find the experience – and the images they take home – completely priceless.
If you’re considering a cake smash session, look for a photographer whose style you love, who makes you feel at ease, and who offers clear pricing with no pressure.