A first birthday is one of those occasions that is truly worth capturing — it sums up a whole year full of milestones: the first smile, crawling, the first steps. A birthday session (the popular “first birthday” shoot) is a way to hold on to this moment for longer. Here’s what’s worth knowing before you book.
When should you have a birthday session?
A classic first birthday session is done as close to your child’s first birthday as possible — most often in the week before or after the date. A birthday session also works wonderfully for the following birthdays (2nd, 3rd, 4th) — with every year the child is more aware of playing in front of the camera, which gives a completely different, equally beautiful result.
What is a cake smash?
A cake smash is one of the best-loved parts of a birthday session — your child gets their own little cake to… squash with their hands. The result is unique shots full of genuine joy (and a bit of mess). It’s an optional extra — if you prefer a calmer, elegant session without a cake, I’ll be just as happy to do that.
How to prepare your child for the session?
- Plan the session for a time when your child is well rested and fed — one-year-olds have their own rhythm and it’s best to respect it.
- Bring a favourite toy — it helps hold your little one’s attention and make them laugh.
- Don’t expect “posing” — the best first birthday photos come from play, crawling and your child’s natural curiosity.
- If your child is just learning to walk, it’s a great moment — those first wobbly steps at the session make some of the most touching shots.
What to wear?
In the studio I have a wide choice of decorations — blocks and banners reading “ROK” (“one year”), number ones in various styles, photogenic toys and outfits for the child and mum (including “Matchy Matchy” sets). You don’t need to buy anything for the occasion — just come along and we’ll put together the rest of the styling on site.
What does the day of a birthday session look like?
We start calmly, giving your child a moment to get used to the new place. Then we take individual photos of your little one, an optional cake smash at the end (so as not to mess up the earlier outfits) and — if you like — shots together with the parents. The whole session takes about an hour, at a pace adapted to your child.
Book your birthday session
Do you have questions or want to set a date for a first birthday or later birthday session? Feel free to write to me. You’ll find the full description of the offer, available packages and prices here:
