Turning one is a big deal. A cake smash photoshoot is a joyful, messy way to celebrate your baby’s first birthday and capture their personality at this wonderfully cheeky age. I’m Sarah of Sarah Louise Photography, a cake smash photographer in Westhoughton, Greater Manchester. My sessions are playful, child-led and stress-free, so you can relax and enjoy the moment while I take care of the fun (and the clean-up).
Every cake smash includes three parts.
We begin with simple, clean first-birthday portraits so you have a few classic images before things get sticky.
Then comes the main event: your baby is invited to explore their very own birthday cake at their own pace, some dive straight in, others start with a cautious poke. Whichever way they go, I’ll capture the curiosity, giggles and glorious crumbs.
We finish with a warm, bubbly bath in a little tub, which doubles as a cute photo set and an easy clean-up. Most little ones love the splashing as much as the cake.
Your set can be minimalist and timeless or lightly themed with colours you love. I keep styling simple (balloons, bunting and a few props), so your child remains the star of the show.
For outfits, many families choose a special birthday look for the portraits and a simpler “smash” outfit (or just a nappy cover) for the cake.
Neutral tones and soft pastels photograph beautifully, but if bold colours feel more “you”, we can plan around that too. I’ll send a short guide after booking and I’m happy to check outfit ideas with you.
All cake smash photoshoots included a cake baked by one of our professional partner, so colours and style match your chosen theme.
Please share any allergy information in advance so I can prepare the set accordingly.
If you’d like photos ready for party invitations or display, aim to book four to six weeks before the birthday. Sessions last around one hour, which is the sweet spot for attention spans at this age. We’ll schedule a time that fits your child’s nap and meal routine to keep them bright and happy.
I’ll carefully edit your images and invite you back for a relaxed viewing about two weeks later. You’ll choose your favourites for digital files, prints or wall art, and I’ll guide you on finishes and sizes that suit your home. If you’re also planning portraits at other stages, take a look at my Baby Milestones sessions.
To secure any cake smash in Westhoughton appointment, there’s a £50 session fee. This reserves time around your due date and covers your consultation, studio time, editing and your viewing appointment. You choose a package once you’ve seen your gallery, no pressure and no hard sell.
Bronze
A full cake smash session with 5 beautifully edited, high-resolution digital images to download.
Silver
A full cake smash session with 10 high-resolution digital images.
Gold
A full cake smash session with 15 high-resolution digital images, plus a keepsake slideshow set to music.
Platinum
A full cake smash session with your full gallery of digital images (approx. 20), plus a keepsake slideshow set to music.
You’re welcome to add extra digitals, prints, wall art and albums at your viewing if you wish. I’m happy to guide you on sizes and finishes that suit your home.
Yes. We’ll start with a clean family portrait before the cake comes out, no extra charge.
That’s totally fine. Some prefer to explore rather than eat. We follow their lead and can hide tiny snacks in the icing or pivot to playful portraits and the splash bath.
I provide backdrops and simple, tasteful props. If you have a small banner, topper or keepsake you’d like to include, bring it along and we’ll style it in.
Your cake, your child’s outfits, a drink and a favourite snack. I’ll handle everything else!
Your Neighbourhood Studio in Westhoughton, Greater Manchester
Sessions take place in my cosy studio in Westhoughton, Greater Manchester. Families often visit from Bolton, Horwich, Blackrod, Aspull, Hindley, Atherton, Lostock, Tyldesley, Leigh, Wigan.
Whether you're days away from your due date or planning ahead for a family session, we'd love to hear from you. Spaces fill quickly — reach out today to check availability and begin your photography journey.
