Milestone vs. Cake Smash Photos: Which Is Right for You?

Milestone vs. cake smash photos—which type of session is better?

As a NJ/NY baby photographer, I absolutely love both these types of sessions! Neither one is better than the other—it just depends on what kind of experience and finished product you’re looking for. So let’s talk a little bit about the differences between these two sessions:

Milestone Sessions

Milestone sessions are designed to capture memories at any point during baby’s first year. 3, 6, 9, and 12 months are popular points for milestone pictures, but you can really do them anytime! They last about an hour and include a simple setup with the use of my studio props and accessories. (And yes, you can choose your favorites to customize!)

These sessions tend to be pretty laidback and relaxed (although honestly, all my sessions are that way!) Mostly we’ll just let your little one play and explore the set while I capture all those sweet moments.

Cake Smash Sessions

Cake smash sessions are a celebration of the big one-year mark! (They usually take place a bit before your baby turns one and should be scheduled well in advance.)

All of my cake smash sessions are fully customized and designed from scratch. I love putting together fun themes to create a one-of-a-kind experience for you and your baby.

Like milestone sessions, cake smashes last about an hour. They include your custom setup, an outfit to match your theme, and use of the studio’s props and accessories. We also usually wrap up the session with some splash photos in my mini tub, which are so fun!

So…which session is right for you?

A Milestone Session Might Be Right for You If:

  • You want a simple session

  • You want to capture those fun memories in between newborn and one year

  • You want more neutral photos that can serve as gifts or home décor

A Cake Smash Session Might Be Right for You If:

  • You’re celebrating your little one’s birthday

  • You want to use your images as party invitations, birthday announcements, or as birthday memories in a scrapbook or other format

  • You want a themed photo session

The good news is, you really can’t go wrong! No matter which type of session you choose, you will end up with a fantastic gallery of fun or beautiful photographs that perfectly capture your little one’s blossoming personality.

If you’re still not sure, feel free to reach out to me anytime! I’d be more than happy to answer your questions and help you create the perfect session to capture these memories of your little one. Can’t wait to see you and your baby in my New Jersey studio soon!