Your baby just turned one, and you want photographs that show who they are right now. Here is how a first birthday photo session works at our downtown Chicago studio: you pick the backdrop and outfits at home, we set up and light the room, and the session runs warm, unhurried, and weather-proof in River North. Real cake smash, a mess-free prop cake, or no cake at all - you decide. Bring dad, grandma, or the family dog; add hair and makeup for mom. Packages start at $500, galleries ready in two to three weeks. Best age: 11 to 12 months.

Your baby is turning one - and there’s no sweeter way to celebrate than with a joyful, messy cake smash photoshoot. In this complete guide, we share everything you need to know: the best age for the session, ideal timing, what to wear, real cake vs. faux, what to bring, and how we keep the entire experience relaxed and fun for your little one.

Discover how to capture the magic of this milestone in our Chicago studio - complete with beautiful portraits, pure delight, and plenty of frosting-covered smiles you’ll treasure forever.