Welcome to I Love U More Photography! I’m Tracy, and my home studio in Lisle, Illinois, is filled with all the goodies for celebrating your little one’s big milestone. Think sweet birthday portraits, tiny fingers in frosting, and plenty of chances for giggles. It’s going to get messy—and that’s part of the fun!
First, the sweet portraits. Then, the sweet mess.
We’ll start without the cake so we can capture those beautiful, classic first birthday photos. Then we’ll bring out the cake and let your little one explore! You’re welcome to bring two outfits: one for the birthday portraits and one for the cake smash.
Once the frosting fun starts, things can move quickly. Be ready to help guide your baby back into the set while I stay ready with my camera to catch the moment. You might end up with a little frosting on you, too! I’ll have damp towels ready for cleanup.
A little warm-up time is always okay
Your baby might be all smiles at home, then feel a little unsure when they arrive. A new face, a new room, and a whole new setup can be a lot to take in. That’s completely okay.
I go slowly and give your little one space when they need it. Bubbles, music, and little toys are some of the ways I help them feel comfortable, safe, and ready to have fun with me. Bringing a favorite toy from home can help, too. You can also have a favorite song or show ready to play on your phone.
We’ll try different things, take our cues from your baby, and keep looking for those sweet moments. If you feel your little one has had enough, just let me know. Their comfort comes first, and you can always tell me when it’s time to stop.
What if my baby isn’t interested in the cake?
Some babies dive right in, and others need a little encouragement. Bring familiar dry snacks and water. If the cake isn’t getting much attention, we can try tucking a little of their usual snack into the frosting so they have something familiar to reach for. Once they get the hang of it, the messy fun often follows!
Before your session, you can let your little one try cake at home. Give them a chance to touch it, explore the texture, and get a little messy. A little practice can make the cake feel more familiar on photo day.
What to bring
• Your cake
• A cake topper
• Any Mylar balloons we’ve discussed
• Up to two outfits: one for classic birthday portraits and one for the cake smash
• A favorite toy from home
• Familiar dry snacks and water
• A favorite song or show ready on your phone
Let’s make some sweet memories!
The cake smash part can fly by once your baby gets going, but those frosting-covered fingers and funny little expressions are so worth it. Whether your little one is a bold cake smasher or a cautious frosting explorer, we’ll celebrate their personality and this special first birthday.
I can’t wait to get messy and have lots of fun with your little one!
With love,
Tracy
I Love U More Photography