Chicago Cake Smash Photography Session | Rena Meystel Photography

A recent cake smash session in our Chicago studio was the perfect example of why these milestone sessions are some of our favorite to photograph. This Chicago cake smash session included family portraits, a custom-themed cake smash, and even their family dog — creating a full, meaningful celebration of a first birthday milestone.

What Is a Cake Smash Session?

A cake smash session is a first birthday portrait experience designed to capture baby’s personality through a mix of family portraits, simple milestone images, and the playful moment of exploring (and usually smashing) their birthday cake. At Rena Meystel Photography, every session is designed to feel elevated, relaxed, and fully customized — not just a messy moment, but a beautifully styled milestone story.

A Fully Planned, Stress-Free Experience

One of the biggest advantages of cake smash photography in our Chicago studio is that everything is fully taken care of from start to finish. From balloons and cake to custom set design and styling details, every element is prepared in advance so families can simply arrive and enjoy the experience without stress or preparation. At Rena Meystel Photography, the goal is always to create a seamless, elevated experience where parents can focus on their child while every detail is thoughtfully handled.

What Happens During a Cake Smash Session?

We always structure the session in a specific flow that keeps babies comfortable and happy.  First, we begin with family portraits, before any cake or mess is introduced. This ensures everyone looks fresh and relaxed, and gives us time to capture meaningful connection-based images. Next, we move into simple milestone portraits of baby alone, allowing them to warm up to the space. Finally, we transition into the cake smash portion, which is always the most playful and unpredictable part of the session. This order is intentional — it helps baby ease into the experience and ensures we capture a full gallery of clean, timeless images before things get messy.

Do Babies Actually Eat the Cake?

Every baby reacts differently — and that’s completely normal.  Some dive right in, some hesitate, and some prefer to explore slowly before engaging. There is never any pressure or expectation for a specific reaction. We follow baby’s lead the entire time, which allows for the most natural and authentic images.

 

What Should Baby Wear for a Cake Smash?

Most parents prefer to bring their own outfit for their baby, and we fully support that. During your design consultation, we choose the outfit together so everything coordinates beautifully with your custom set design.
We also offer curated outfit options in our studio wardrobe if needed, but many families love incorporating something personal or meaningful from home.
Outfits are typically chosen based on: comfort and movement, color coordination with the set design, and a clean timeless look that photographs well.

How Long Does a Cake Smash Session Take?

Most cake smash sessions last approximately 60–90 minutes, depending on baby’s comfort level and how they respond throughout the session.
We always allow plenty of time so nothing ever feels rushed — especially important for breaks, outfit changes, and letting baby warm up naturally.

Can Family and Pets Be Included?

Yes — and we absolutely encourage it.  This recent session included both family portraits and their dog, and our Chicago studio is designed to comfortably accommodate families of all sizes. The space is intentionally spacious, allowing for pets, siblings, and extended family members when desired.

Custom Cake Smash Sets (Designed Just for You)

One of the most special parts of this recent session was a fully custom airplane-themed set. Mom mentioned that Dad works in aviation, so we surprised them with a design inspired by that detail.
Every cake smash session is fully customized — no two sets are ever the same. These thoughtful details are what turn a milestone session into something deeply personal and meaningful.

When Should You Book a Cake Smash Session?

The best time to schedule a cake smash session is typically around 11–12 months, usually about a month before baby’s first birthday. This timing ensures your gallery is ready for birthday invitations, party décor, milestone announcements or keepsake albums. We recommend booking early, as our studio takes a limited number of sessions each month to maintain a personalized experience.

What Happens After the Cake Smash?

After the cake portion, we move into a splash portion, which includes an adorable mini bath setup. This not only gently cleans baby up, but also creates some of the most joyful and candid images of the entire session — full of splashing, laughter, and personality.
Our studio setup makes transitions simple and stress-free, so families never have to worry about mess or preparation afterward.

Why Studio Cake Smash Photography Works So Well

A common question parents have is why studio sessions tend to look so polished and consistent.
Our Chicago studio environment allows us to control lighting, background distractions, temperature and comfort, set design, and flow.  This creates a calm, predictable space where babies can relax — and parents don’t have to worry about cleanup at home afterward.

 

View More & Inquire

If you’re considering your own cake smash session in our Chicago studio, you can view more milestone sessions here for inspiration.
You can also inquire about your session here — we would love to create a fully customized experience for your family.