Cake Smash Photo Sessions in Corpus Christi | Photography by Crystal Leigh
- Crystal Lail-Botello
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Cake Smash Photo Sessions in Corpus Christi: What to Expect (and Why Parents Love Them)
That first birthday hits differently. One whole year of tiny milestones, big personalities, and a baby who suddenly has opinions. A cake smash photo session is the perfect way to celebrate this sweet (and messy) milestone — frosting, giggles, curiosity, and all.
At Photography by Crystal Leigh, I specialize in fun, professionally styled cake smash sessions in Corpus Christi that feel relaxed, joyful, and completely baby-led.
If you’re considering a cake smash session for your little one, here’s exactly what to expect.
Where Cake Smash Sessions Take Place
All styled cake smash sessions take place in my Southside Corpus Christi studio, designed to be comfortable, safe, and stress-free for little ones.
No worrying about the weather, wind, or Texas heat — just beautiful light, cozy vibes, and plenty of room for crawling, cruising, and cake exploration.
How a Cake Smash Session Flows
Every cake smash session is intentionally paced and baby-led:
Traditional Portraits First: We always start with clean, classic portraits before the cake comes out. These timeless images are perfect for albums, wall art, and birthday announcements.
Cake Smash Time: Next comes the fun (and messy) part. Some babies dive right in. Others cautiously inspect the cake like it’s suspicious. Both reactions are completely normal — and equally adorable.
Optional Splash Session: If you choose to add it on, we’ll end with a splash in my adorable tiny tub. Even babies who weren’t impressed by cake often love the bubble bath, and it’s a wonderful way to finish the session with happy, playful images.
Cake Smash Package Options
I offer two cake smash package options to fit your style:
Minimal Aesthetic Cake Smash
This option includes:
A solid white backdrop
A clean, timeless setup
May include a small strand of clear or white balloons
Perfect for parents who love a simple, classic look
Fully Styled Cake Smash Portrait Session
This is the full creative experience and includes:
Custom color or theme styling
Balloon arches or garlands
Florals and styled decor
Glitter curtains, printed backdrops, or textured drops
A thoughtfully designed set that photographs beautifully
I’ll work closely with you to design the perfect setup for your baby.
Please note: I do not offer licensed or copyrighted characters. If you’d like to include those specifically, parents are welcome to provide their own decor.
🎈 Bonus: If your session includes a balloon garland, you’re welcome to take it home after the session to use as birthday party decor.
Cake & Wardrobe Details
Parents provide:
The cake
Your baby’s outfit(s)
I’m happy to help guide you on:
Where to purchase cakes locally
What size and icing type to ask your baker for
Colors and styles that photograph best
You’ll never be left guessing — I’ll walk you through it.
Preparing for a Successful Cake Smash Session
Before your session, I’ll provide simple prep tips covering:
What to bring
How to prepare your baby
What to expect during the session
Around their first birthday, babies are BUSY. Personalities are shining through, independence is emerging, and patience levels vary by the minute. I approach every session with patience and flexibility to make sure we capture a variety of expressions and moments.
Some babies are shy. Some aren’t thrilled by cake. Some surprise everyone by loving the splash session most of all. All of it is completely normal — and all of it photographs beautifully.
What If My Baby Doesn’t Like Cake?
This is very common. Before your session, I’ll ask that you let your baby try a small taste of something sweet ahead of time so we know what to expect.
If cake isn’t their thing:
We can discuss an alternative smash food
I have a few gentle tricks up my sleeve to encourage curiosity
We always follow your baby’s comfort level
No pressure. No forcing. Ever.
Experience You Can Trust
I’ve been photographing children for over 10 years, and working with young kids is truly one of my strengths. I’ve also taken classes on set design and balloon garlands, ensuring every setup is designed to photograph beautifully — not just look cute in person.
Parents, quick heads up: wear comfy clothes.You’ll set your baby down, step out of frame… and they’ll immediately crawl or waddle away. That’s normal. That’s expected. And yes — we’ll still get beautiful images.
Want an Outdoor Cake Smash Session?
Yes — outdoor cake smash sessions are an option! 🌊
If you’re dreaming of a beach cake smash session in Corpus Christi, message me and we’ll chat details. I’ve done outdoor sessions with cake and thoughtfully chosen themed decor.
For outdoor sessions:
We do not use balloons (they don’t work well with wind)
We avoid anything that could harm wildlife
We always clean up thoroughly after ourselves
These sessions are simple, intentional, and respectful of our beautiful coastal environment.
Ready to Book a Cake Smash Photo Session for Your Baby?
If you’re looking for a cake smash photographer in Corpus Christi, Photography by Crystal Leigh would love to help you celebrate this milestone in a fun, relaxed, and beautifully styled way.
Message me to book or ask questions — I’m always happy to help you plan the perfect first birthday experience. 🎂✨
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