Why You Should Book a Lifestyle Cake Smash Session (And How to Prepare for One) | Lifestyle Photographer in North NJ
If you're anything like me, you’ve probably thought, “Cake smashes aren’t really my thing.” Maybe you’ve seen the typical studio setup with elaborate props and fondant-covered cakes and thought, “That’s just not our style.”
But what if a cake smash could feel more you? More relaxed. More connected. More heartfelt.
As a New Jersey lifestyle photographer, I’ve reimagined the traditional cake smash to focus less on the props and more on the moments. Think genuine giggles, frosting-covered fingers, sweet family hugs, and the joy of your little one’s very first bite of cake—outdoors, in natural light, and in a setting that feels relaxed and real.
Here’s why a lifestyle cake smash session might be exactly what you’re looking for—and how to prepare so it goes smoothly.
Why Book a Lifestyle Cake Smash?
Forget the stiff studio poses and over-the-top setups. A lifestyle cake smash focuses on natural connection and storytelling.
Celebrate your baby’s first year in a way that feels honest, sweet, and playful.
Keep it casual—this is all about your little one exploring something new (and delicious!).
It’s fast, fun, and low-pressure—typically added onto the end of a family photo session.
These sessions are done outdoors, using beautiful NJ locations we choose together.
Rather than focusing on the “perfect” cake, we focus on the moments: the messy hands, the curious expressions, the way siblings jump in at the end to sneak a bite. These are the images that you'll treasure forever.
What to Expect During Your Session
We’ll start with a lifestyle family session—capturing authentic, connection-filled images of you with your soon-to-be one-year-old and any siblings. Toward the end of the shoot, we’ll set up a simple cake smash scene in a shaded spot. The setup usually takes just 15 minutes, and the focus is entirely on your baby’s reaction and joy.
No studio. No stiff poses. Just sweet, meaningful memories.
Tips to Prepare for a Lifestyle Cake Smash Session
Here are a few simple things to bring and plan for so the session runs smoothly:
🎂 Bring Your Own Cake
I don’t provide the cake (to avoid allergy concerns), but I do bring a cake stand and a blanket. Keep it simple—small cakes work best, and you don’t need anything fancy. Pro tip: expect some cake smushing in the car. It happens. We roll with it.
🎈 Balloons and Props (Optional)
If you want balloons or a small banner, feel free to bring them! A balloon weight or anchor is helpful, especially for outdoor sessions with wind.
👕 A Change of Clothes
You might start in one outfit and switch to something fun (think tutu or suspenders) for the smash. And don’t forget an extra set of comfy clothes for the ride home—especially if things get messy.
🧻 Wipes, Wipes, Wipes
I’ll have a few on hand, but it’s always good to bring your own—especially if your little one has sensitive skin.
🦟 Bug Spray (If Outdoors)
If it’s warm out, bugs may show up—especially with sweet cake around. Bug spray is a good idea, just like any outdoor session.
Where Do These Cake Smashes Take Place?
These sessions are outdoors in natural light, usually in one of the beautiful spots around Northern New Jersey—like a park in Maplewood, a wooded trail near South Orange, or a quiet garden setting in Westfield. We'll pick a location that feels just right for your family.
Ready to Celebrate Your Baby’s First Year?
If you're looking for a more relaxed, meaningful way to mark your baby’s first birthday, a lifestyle cake smash session might be the perfect fit. It’s not about being Pinterest-perfect—it’s about capturing real joy, real connection, and the sweet, fleeting magic of this moment.
📍 Available in Maplewood, South Orange, Westfield, and the surrounding NJ areas.
📆 Now booking summer and fall sessions!
👉 [Contact Me] to learn more or reserve your session!