Thursday, January 22, 2026 | By: Emily Valentine Photography
First birthdays are such a milestone — not just for babies, but for parents too. This Albany cake smash session was especially meaningful because I’ve had the joy of photographing this sweet boy before, all the way back to his newborn days. Seeing how much he’s grown makes moments like this feel extra special.
Returning families who trust me to document each chapter mean more to me than I can put into words.
Before bringing out the cake, Mom wanted a few clean, timeless portraits — the kind that never go out of style. We kept things soft and classic so the focus stayed on her little one’s expressions, personality, and just how big he’s gotten in one short year.
This also gives parents a beautiful variety of images before the frosting fun begins.
Once it was time for cake, we introduced a baseball-inspired setup that felt playful without being overwhelming. Cake smash sessions are always baby-led — some little ones dig right in, others inspect every detail first.
Every reaction tells part of the story, and that’s what makes these sessions so fun to photograph.
Cake smash sessions celebrate more than just a birthday — they mark a year of growth, change, and love. It’s incredibly meaningful to continue photographing families as their babies grow, capturing one milestone at a time.
Cake smash sessions are typically scheduled when baby is around 5-6 months old and then the session usually takes place when they are around 11 months to allow plenty of time for editing and delivery before the big day.
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