1. Book Early for a Stress-Free Experience

One of the most important things to remember when planning a cake smash session is to book in advance. Ideally, you should aim to book your cake smash photoshoot about 6 to 8 weeks before your baby’s birthday. This gives you enough time to finalize all the details, such as the cake design, props, and outfits, while also securing your photographer’s availability.

At my newborn photography studio in Bexley, I recommend booking early, especially during busy times of the year (like around the holidays). By planning ahead, you'll have plenty of time to choose the perfect theme and ensure everything is ready for your baby's big day!

2. Timing the Photoshoot for the Best Results

While it’s important to book in advance, choosing the right time of day for your cake smash photoshoot is just as crucial. Babies tend to be happiest and most alert in the morning, usually after they’ve had their nap and breakfast. This is the best time to capture those precious, smiling moments without any fuss.

If you’re booking a cake smash photoshoot at my Bexley photography studio, we can also factor in your baby's typical nap and feeding schedule to ensure they are in the best mood for the session.

3. Plan for the First Birthday Milestone

Most cake smash photoshoots take place around your baby’s first birthday, but it’s not always necessary to wait until the exact day. In fact, many parents book their sessions a few weeks before the big day. This way, you can ensure the session is relaxed, your baby is in a good mood, and you have plenty of time to enjoy the experience without the pressure of having everything coincide with the birthday itself.

Booking a few weeks ahead of time also allows you to get your photos ready for birthday invitations, decorations, or even the birthday party itself! In South East London, I’ve helped many parents plan their baby’s cake smash session to fit within their overall birthday celebration.

4. Avoiding the Rush: Consider Seasonal Factors

Certain times of the year can be busier than others for cake smash sessions. Spring and summer months tend to be popular for outdoor cake smash shoots, especially with the lovely parks and natural scenery around Bexley. These months can also be great if you're planning a theme with floral elements or pastel colours.

However, these seasons can also be busy for photographers, so it’s a good idea to book your shoot at least 2-3 months in advance if you're planning for a peak season session. The fall and winter months tend to be quieter, offering more flexibility if you’re looking for a winter wonderland or cozy indoor cake smash setup.

5. Don’t Forget to Factor in Time for Cake and Prop Planning

One of the most exciting parts of a cake smash photoshoot is the custom cake and themed props! In Bexley, I work with local cake makers who specialise in creating beautiful, baby-friendly cakes that not only look stunning but are safe for your little one to enjoy. Custom cakes can take a week or more to prepare, so be sure to factor that time into your planning.

Additionally, if you’re opting for custom props or a personalised theme (such as a superhero, woodland creatures, or vintage theme), I will need extra time to source or design them. Planning these details early ensures that everything is perfectly coordinated and ready for the photoshoot day.

6. Flexibility is Key: Allow Room for Unexpected Changes

Life with a baby is unpredictable, and sometimes things don’t go according to plan. Whether your little one is teething, unwell, or simply not in the mood for a cake smash, it’s important to be flexible with your scheduling. As a professional photographer in South East London, I always try to accommodate rescheduling if necessary. It’s best to give yourself some breathing room to adjust if you need to shift the date closer to your baby’s birthday.

Conclusion: Book Your Cake Smash Photoshoot Early for the Best Experience

Booking your cake smash photoshoot in Bexley ahead of time not only helps you secure the date you want, but it also ensures that you have enough time to plan every detail for your baby’s special moment. Whether you're celebrating a first birthday with a whimsical theme or keeping things simple and natural, early planning will make the process smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your little one.

If you’re ready to book your cake smash photoshoot in South East London, get in touch with me today! Let’s capture your baby’s first birthday in the most beautiful and memorable way possible.

Book your cake smash session in Bexley today and let’s start planning the perfect photoshoot for your little one’s first birthday! Contact me to schedule your session. Find my cake smash packages here, Looking for some inspiration? check out my portfolio here!