So your baby’s first birthday is approaching and you’re unsure if you want to do a cake smash… you have come to the right place! As a Lehigh Valley, PA children’s photographer for 14+ years, I am going to share some of my favorite alternatives to cake that I’ve photographed over the years. I hope you’ll find some first birthday inspiration!

Waffles

Waffles are a great way to fake a cake! Eggo makes “extra fluffy” waffles, too! My client layered whipped cream from home with the fluffy waffles and it looked like a delicious naked iced cake!

Watermelon

Watermelon is something that is universally loved! In general, babies love watermelon so why not do a watermelon smash for your little one’s birthday!

Fruit Baths and Milk Baths

Fruit baths and milk baths are a hit with the one year olds! They LOVE splashing in the tub and they usually are obsessed with fruit! I’ve seen lemons, oranges, blueberries, strawberries come through the doors of my photo studio!

Donuts

Donuts make a killer “cake” on their own but can be paired with a donut cake as well! I have loved all of these donut smash sessions over the years!

Spaghetti Smash

Spaghetti Smash First Birthday Pictures are flippin’ amazing! Bring a bowl of plain pasta, a little red sauce for decoration & mess and pair it with some big meatballs… I wish I’d known about this when my son Rocco was a baby!

Pancakes

Pancakes go really well with a Lumberjack themed first birthday! No need for syrup, just top with some whipped cream and let baby have at it!

Cookies

Years ago we had a client do a Sesame Street first birthday session and the little man was chomping on some cookies… side note: it’s one of my most pinned pins on Pinterest! Do you follow me there, yet?

Did I miss any main themes? Have an idea of something that could be cool? Drop a comment here on the blog and be sure to follow along for more children photography tips and tricks!

Love these themes or have an idea of your own? Book a session HERE!