At Home First Birthday Pictures | Robbie Bedford, NY
April 30, 2022
As a family photographer one of my favorite ways to photograph families are where they are most comfortable, where they’re in their element, and where kiddos feel like they can be themselves. So for Robbie’s one year milestone we did at home first birthday pictures, cake smash and all!
I like to start my lifestyle sessions with the little ones with their parents interacting. It’s easier to keep them happy and get them to laugh if they feel safe with their parents while they get used to me and my camera.
Robbie was such a little ham once he warmed up a little, especially when playing with his parents.
I loved that Robbie knew how to point and make sure everyone knew he was a one year old!
As part of a lifestyle session it’s all about capturing normal, everyday life. However, I’m always up for props and even a whole background setup if that’s something you would like to do. I do carry additional lighting with me just in case I’m not able to use all natural light (outside/window light).
Robbie’s mom, Lauren, did a great job setting up a “Winter Onederland” inside their living room. She had a lot of props like snowflakes, pinecones, and a sled that gave us a lot to work with.
Lauren even made the perfect little cake for a cake smash for Robbie’s at home first birthday pictures.
The key with cake smashes is to take your time, or rather the kid’s time. Kids aren’t usually used to being allowed to dig into their food and the cake and icing is an interesting texture. Not to mention that sometimes it’s the little one’s first real taste of sugar and there’s usually an audience of people watching. It can all be a lot and sensory overload so it’s best just to let them take their time.
Most cake smash pictures look perfect and easy, but make no mistake it involves a lot of patience, encouragement, and time.
But it’s all worth it for pictures like this! I love being this family’s photographer and all of their memories I’ve been able to capture. They’re expecting another baby boy soon and I can’t wait for his newborn session and for Robbie to be a big brother!
