This session was everything I love about what I do—capturing big moments and little details, all wrapped up in the people who matter most. We combined two of my favorite things in one shoot: a first birthday cake smash and a multi-generational family session. And honestly? It was such a beautiful reminder that milestones don’t just belong to the little ones—we get to honor the whole family.

We photographed this session over the course of two separate days, which, let me just say, was 100% the right move. Because let’s be real: one-year-olds don’t have the attention span (or energy) for a full-blown photoshoot with family and a cake smash. Splitting the session gave us the space to be present and relaxed—and that always shows in the final images.

The first part of the session was focused on the family: grandparents, parents, and the birthday girl all together in the studio. The love in the room was immediate and easy. You could feel the pride, the joy, the full-circle energy of seeing generations gathered together in one frame. These are the kinds of photos that don’t just sit in a gallery—they become part of your legacy.

And then came part two: cake smash time. If you’ve ever considered doing one for your baby’s first birthday, let this be your sign. It was equal parts adorable and hilarious. Frosting-covered hands, a little confusion, a lot of giggles—it was the kind of chaos that’s completely worth documenting. These photos will be the ones you pull out when they’re ten, when they’re twenty, when they’re celebrating their own babies someday.

One of the best parts of doing this session in the studio was the flexibility. We weren’t worried about light or weather, or about finding a location that worked for grandparents and littles alike. The studio gave us everything we needed: soft natural light, access to the client closet, a calm environment, and an easy place to reset in between. It’s perfect for milestone moments and family sessions alike, especially when toddlers (or grandparents!) need a break.

When you’re planning a session like this, I always recommend thinking about color coordination and comfort. Neutrals, warm tones, and textures work beautifully on camera and pair so well with studio backdrops. But above all, pick pieces that feel like you. This session had a mix of cozy, elevated, and fun—and it captured the spirit of the family perfectly.

Here’s what I’ll say if you’ve been thinking about doing something like this: don’t wait. Whether it’s your baby’s first birthday or your parents’ first time in front of the camera in years, it’s worth celebrating. These moments come and go so quickly, and having photos of your people—all your people—is something you’ll never regret.

These images were filled with so much joy, pride, and sweetness (literally). A baby covered in cake. Grandparents holding hands. Parents watching it all unfold. It was everything a session should be: real, heartfelt, and totally unique to the people in it.

Want to Document a Milestone and Your Legacy?

Let’s capture the chaos, the sweetness, and all the love that lives in between.