Mechanicsburg cake smash, custom cake smash, milestone photos, studio first birthday session, Central PA photographer
Some babies walk into the studio and immediately feel like old friends. That was definitely the case with little Stella. I first met her and her parents during my fall mini sessions, and I instantly adored them. When her mama reached out again for Stella’s first birthday photos, I was so thrilled. There is something incredibly meaningful about being chosen more than once. Every returning family feels like such an honor, and getting to see how much their little ones grow in such a short time is truly one of the best parts of what I do.
For her big day, we started with a set of family portraits. I love beginning first birthday sessions this way because it gives babies a chance to warm up, get comfortable with me and the camera, and snuggle their parents for a few photos before cake time. Stella did exactly that. She gave the sweetest little expressions and held onto her mama in that gentle way only one-year-olds do. Those early family photos always end up being some of my favorites.
After that, we moved into her simple cake smash setup. I kept everything clean and minimal on a white backdrop to let the true star shine. Simple cake smashes are some of my most requested setups for a reason. They’re classic, they photograph beautifully, and they allow your baby’s personality to take center stage. Stella sat down, looked around quietly for a moment, and then began exploring everything at her own pace.
Her cake, beautifully made by Wesley Made Sweets, looked almost too pretty to touch. Stella seemed to think so too because she took a more thoughtful approach. Some babies dive in with two fists and frosting all over their cheeks. Others take their time and investigate the texture, the taste, and the whole new experience happening in front of them. Stella was definitely the gentle explorer type. She poked the icing, made the tiniest frosting finger marks, and gave us the cutest little unsure faces. It was adorable to watch her process it all.
One of my favorite parts of first birthday photos is seeing what outfits parents bring along. Stella’s mama packed the sweetest pieces, including a dainty star birthday crown that looked perfect on her. I also have a curated client closet for my milestone sessions, and families are always welcome to mix and match between my pieces and their own. I truly love when parents bring sentimental items. These photos become part of your family’s story, and those special touches make the connection that much more beautiful.
We wrapped up her studio first birthday session with a few more simple portraits once she was comfortable and fully in her element. Even though she wasn’t totally sold on the cake, she gave us so many precious expressions. Curious looks. Soft smiles. That little sparkle in her eyes. She really was such a joy from start to finish.
If you are planning your own first birthday photos and want something timeless, simple, and centered completely around your baby, a Mechanicsburg cake smash might be the perfect fit. Whether you want a simple cake smash, a custom themed cake smash, or a just a clean fresh milestone setup just like Stella’s, I would love to help bring your vision to life.
