Clothing for Baby
A carefully curated collection of adorable outfits, backdrops, and props—including a fake cake—at no extra cost.
First Birthday & Cake Smash Photoshoot in Chicago
from $500.00
Welcome to Filaneyka Photo Studio! Celebrate your baby's biggest milestone with a joyful, custom-styled 1st birthday photoshoot in downtown Chicago. This magical chapter deserves to be captured forever - those chubby cheeks, curious smiles, and the pure delight of a traditional cake smash. Our all-inclusive studio experience provides everything you need: adorable baby outfits, themed backdrops, gorgeous props, and high-end retouching for memories you'll treasure a lifetime.
Portfolio
Capturing the timeless beauty and wonder of your baby's first year through heartfelt, artistic milestone photography in Chicago. Transforming each session into cherished, unforgettable works of art.
Your bonuses
Preparation Checklist
Detailed guidance on what to bring, preparation tips, and available on-site amenities to help you feel fully relaxed.
Retouched Photo Set
Retouching is included for a fixed set of photographs (color & B/W). Additional retouching is available upon request.
First birthday packages
Baby Only
1 hour @ $550.00
$500.00
1 hour photoshoot
For the baby: Access to studio wardrobe and 2-3 outfit changes
2–3 different backdrops (including kids themed)
Will provide link to 80-100 complimentary high-res photos (without watermark) for download
8 retouched photos of your choice
Props included (stools, faux cake, etc.)
Most popular
family included
1 hour @ $700.00
$600.00
1 hour photoshoot
For the baby: Access to studio wardrobe and 2-3 outfit changes
2–3 different backdrops (including kids themed)
Parents and siblings can join for family-style shots
Access to studio wardrobe for mom
Will provide link to 80-100 complimentary high-res photos (without watermark) for download
8 retouched photos of your choice
Props included (stools, faux cake, etc.)
Signature
2 hour @ $950.00
$800.00
2 h session
For the baby: Access to studio wardrobe and 3-4 outfit changes
3 different backdrops (including kids themed)
Parents and siblings can join for family-style shots
Access to studio wardrobe for mom
15 High-End Retouched Images of your choice
Will provide link to 150-200 complimentary high-res photos (without watermark) for download
Guided posing
Props included (stools, faux cake, etc.)
"Need portraits for older children or adults? See our individual photoshoot options →"
Extra services
(All extra services are available at booking)
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Hairstyle
+$150.00
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Makeup
+$150.00
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Simultaneous makeup + hairstyle
+$300.00
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Additional Outfit
+$50.00
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Exclusive Photo Retouching
+$35.00
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2 Exclusive Photos Retouch
+$70.00
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Rush Editing/ Retouching
+$50.00
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Instagram Reels - up to 45 sec
+$50.00
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Harmony Memories Collection
+$200.00
Printed Products
Harmony Memories Collection
Turn your digital galleries into lasting heirlooms. A beautiful photo box with printed covers, a flash drive, and 10 of your favorite printed portraits.
Their first birthday only happens once
Let’s capture the cake smash, the giggles, and the tiny details you never want to forget.
Frequently Asked Questions
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For a 6-month sitter session, the best time is 6–8 months, once your baby can sit steadily (with little or no support). This stage is perfect for capturing big smiles, chubby cheeks, and curious expressions.
For a 1st birthday / Cake Smash photoshoot, the ideal window is around 10.5–11 months. At this age, separation anxiety is often a bit easier, many babies aren’t walking yet, and it gives enough time to have your images ready before the birthday celebration.
You can also book the session on your baby’s actual birthday for a truly special celebration. And if you’re a little past the milestone — don’t worry, it’s never too late for cake 🎂
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The best time is when your child is well-rested and in a good mood.
Usually, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM works best (after sleep and a meal, but before they get tired).If your child takes one nap a day, the ideal time is 30–60 minutes after the nap.
Quick tip: book the session after a meal + after a nap — it usually makes the shoot smoother and more relaxed.
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Your baby’s health is our top priority. If your child isn’t feeling well, the session will need to be rescheduled. A sick baby won’t enjoy the experience, and for everyone’s safety—especially other babies—we reschedule with any signs of illness or exposure
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For the photoshoot, you’re welcome to choose an outfit from our curated collection of baby outfits, thoughtfully selected for first birthday sessions, or bring your own. Please note that if you’re planning a Cake Smash, you’ll need to bring a separate outfit specifically for that portion of the session.
We recommend simple, light, and neutral tones, as they beautifully highlight your baby’s expressions and blend seamlessly with the overall styling and décor. 🤍
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Yes! Your studio session includes all styling and décor, such as ONE letters, cake stands, baby backdrops, child-sized chairs, and carefully selected props and outfits. Every detail is thoughtfully prepared to make your session truly special and memorable.
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Typically, we can do 2–3 looks, but the exact number depends on your child’s mood and pace.
My recommended plan: 2 looks for the child + 1 family look.
If your child enjoys being photographed and stays engaged, we can try: 2 family looks + 1 individual child look.
Ideally, we always plan for at least 1 family look so you’ll definitely have beautiful photos together.
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Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own real cake — that’s absolutely allowed. We also provide faux cakes for the photoshoot.
For the Cake Smash portion, we recommend bringing a separate outfit, as this part of the session can get messy.
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Before the session, make sure your baby is well-rested and fed — this helps them feel happy and comfortable.
Bring familiar items such as a pacifier, a favorite snack (like white baby puffs), or a small toy.
Dress your baby in easy-to-remove clothing, especially for the Cake Smash portion.
Most importantly, stay relaxed — babies are very sensitive to their parents’ energy.
If you’re planning the Cake Smash portion:
Let your baby try cake, frosting, or similar textures at home beforehand so the taste and feel are familiar during the session
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Any visible baby acne, rashes, or small scratches will be gently removed during the final Retouching process. Each package includes a set number of retouched images (please refer to the price list for details). Additional retouched images are always available upon request.
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Yes! Parents, siblings, other family members, and even pets are welcome to be part of the session. When booking, please make sure your package or session notes include family participation.
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That’s completely normal! With many years of experience photographing babies, I use gentle techniques to help calm them and capture natural smiles. We’ll take breaks as needed for feeding, outfit changes, cuddles, and comfort until your baby feels relaxed again.
I also recommend bringing a pacifier to help soothe your baby.
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We offer a wide selection of baby outfits and props, and the studio is fully equipped to provide a comfortable and unique experience for your little one.
If you have a special or sentimental item you’d like included, feel free to bring it along.
Please also bring:
A changing kit
A feeding kit
White baby puffs snacks
A pacifier
These items help keep your baby happy and comfortable throughout the session.