About your Cake Smash Session

Cake Smash Sessions at Louise Pollitt Photography

Your Cake Smash Photographer in Leeds, Huddersfield and Halifax

There’s something brilliantly chaotic about a first birthday cake smash! Give a one-year-old a cake, let them explore, squish and taste it, and you never quite know what’s going to happen. That’s exactly why I love photographing them.

My cake smash photoshoots are relaxed, fun and completely centred around your little one. Some babies dive straight into the cake, while others carefully poke it with one finger and look at us as though we’ve completely lost the plot. 😂 Either way, we go at their pace and capture all those little expressions along the way.

And the fun doesn’t stop when the cake is demolished. After the cake smash, we can finish with a warm splash and bubble session — which makes for gorgeous photographs and has the added bonus of cleaning up your little cake-covered human!

I photograph first birthday and cake smash sessions for families from Leeds, Halifax, Huddersfield and across West Yorkshire, creating colourful, personality-filled photographs to celebrate this huge little milestone.

Meet Louise and find out more here

Your Cake Smash Photographer in Leeds, Huddersfield and Halifax

Cake smash photography for babies celebrating their first birthday in Leeds, Halifax, Huddersfield and across West Yorkshire.

Your cake smash session includes:

• 1–2 hour studio session
• A bespoke theme created especially for your little one
• A cake designed to complement your chosen theme
• Outfits to coordinate with the setup
• The cake smash itself
• A warm splash and bubble session afterwards
• Plenty of giggles, mess and fun!

I love creating cake smash setups with a rustic, timeless feel, and many of the details are handmade. We'll chat beforehand about the colours and style you love, and I'll create a setup that's personal to your little one rather than something that feels identical to everybody else's.

And don't worry if your baby doesn't immediately launch themselves face-first into the cake! Every one-year-old reacts differently. Some get stuck straight in, some cautiously investigate and some are far more interested in everything except the cake. 😂 We simply let them explore at their own pace.

Once we've finished the cake smash, it's time for the splash and bubbles. It's usually great fun for little ones, makes for some gorgeous photographs and — conveniently — helps clean off all that cake!

It's such a lovely way to celebrate your baby's first birthday, and the photographs make wonderful memories for you as well as gifts for grandparents and family.

Read my guide to choosing the perfect cake smash theme here

Cake Smash Session FAQs

When should I book my cake smash session?

I recommend booking your cake smash session 1 month in advance to ensure availability, especially if you'd like the images ready for your child's first birthday celebration or party.

What age is best for a cake smash?

Cake smash sessions are typically held when your baby is 10–12 months old. Scheduling the session a few weeks before their first birthday means you'll have your images ready to share on their special day.

What happens during the session?

A typical cake smash session includes:

A few beautiful portrait photographs before the cake.
The cake smash itself, where your little one gets to explore, play, and enjoy their cake.
A fun splash bath at the end to clean up and capture even more adorable smiles.

How long does the session last?

Most cake smash sessions last around 60–90 minutes, allowing plenty of time for portraits, the cake smash, and the splash bath without rushing your little one.

Do you provide the cake?

No, I provide the cake of your choice.

Can I choose a theme or colour scheme?

Absolutely! Whether you love soft neutrals, florals, woodland, boho, teddy bears, rainbows, or something completely unique, we'll work together to create a setup that reflects your style and celebrates your little one's personality.

What should my baby wear?

Simple outfits work beautifully. Rompers, bloomers, tutus, or little dungarees are all lovely choices. I also have a selection of outfits and accessories available for many sessions if you'd like to use them.

What should parents wear?

If you'd like to be included for a few family portraits at the beginning, neutral, coordinating colours photograph best. Keeping outfits simple helps keep the focus on your family and your birthday star.

What if my baby doesn't like the cake?

That's completely normal! Every baby reacts differently. Some dive straight in, while others are more curious or cautious. I have lots of tricks to encourage little smiles and natural interactions, and we'll never force your child if they're not interested.

What if my baby has allergies or dietary requirements?

Please let me know when booking. If a cake is included, I'll discuss suitable options with you. If your child has significant allergies, I may ask you to provide a cake that you know is safe for them.

Can siblings or parents be included?

Yes! Family and sibling photographs can usually be included at the beginning of your session. They're a lovely way to celebrate this milestone together.

Do I need to bring anything?

Please bring:

A drink and favourite snacks.
A spare outfit for your little one.
Any comfort toy or dummy that helps settle them.
Wipes and nappies.

What is the splash bath?

After the cake smash, your little one gets to enjoy a warm bubble bath in a cute little tub. It's a favourite part of the session and often produces some of the biggest smiles and sweetest photographs.

How long will it take to receive my gallery?

Your edited gallery will usually be ready within 2–3 weeks after your session. We will invite you back for your viewing session to choose your package.

What if my child is unwell?

If your little one is feeling poorly, please let me know as soon as possible. We'll happily reschedule your session so they're feeling happy, healthy, and ready to enjoy their special day.

Can I bring my own decorations?

You're welcome to bring a few meaningful items if you'd like to personalise your session. However, I recommend keeping the setup simple so your little one remains the focus of the images.