More Than a Smash Cake: A First Birthday Photoshoot With Big Sister

Of course, the main focus was his first birthday — his little expressions, curious looks and all those tiny details that change so quickly.
But having his sister there made the session even more special.
Because we weren't just photographing a baby turning one.
We were photographing a brother and sister at this little stage of their lives.
Before the cake
I always begin a Smash Cake session with some simple portraits before the cake comes out.
Photographs of your little one on their own, and, if you'd like, photographs with parents and siblings too.
These are often the photographs that parents don't realise they'll love so much.
A little smile.
A serious expression.
The way a big sister looks at her baby brother.
Those completely natural moments that aren't planned.
And then comes the cake…
Once the portraits are done, it's time for the fun part.
Some babies love the cake immediately.
Some are unsure.
Some barely touch it.
And some make the funniest little faces when they realise what is sitting in front of them. 😂
I don't try to make every baby react in the same way.
I simply photograph what happens naturally.
Because that's what makes the photographs feel like your child.

More than a first birthday photograph
One day, these two won't be this little anymore.
Their faces will change.
Their personalities will grow.
Their relationship will change too.
And you'll be able to look back at these photographs and remember exactly how small they were.
Not just your baby's first birthday.
But the two of them, together, at this moment in their childhood.
And that's why I love including siblings in Smash Cake sessions.
The cake will be eaten and the decorations will eventually come down.
But these photographs will stay. 🤍
Smash Cake Photography in Dundee
If your little one is approaching their first birthday, I'd love to welcome you to my studio for a relaxed Smash Cake and first birthday photoshoot in Dundee.
Older siblings are very welcome, and we can include beautiful natural photographs of them together as part of the session.
You can find more information about my Smash Cake Photography in Dundee, including my free Smash Cake Guide, on my website.